The University of Northwestern men's basketball team made headlines this year for its outstanding year on the court, but what most people don't see publicized are the players' hearts for relationships off the court. Cody Sprenger, the sophomore guard from Grey Eagle, Minnesota, is a student athlete that pours his heart into his team, on and off the court. Head Coach Tim Grosz summarized, "Cody's work ethic, positive attitude, and unselfishness are huge for our program. He is a fun player to coach and a great teammate." His smile is always present, his hustle on the court is unmatched, and his relationships are something to be admired-- one relationship in particular.

Sprenger first met Ty, who likes to be referred to as "Tyshady," at a Northwestern Special Olympics event in 2013. Since then their friendship has only grown. Ty is a part of the Highland Friendship Club basketball team that competes at each UNW Special Olympics event. Not only is Ty a regular attendee at these events, but he is one of the committed fans at the Northwestern basketball games, always wearing his Eagle jersey with pride.

Sprenger, among many other men's basketball players, has taken the relationships from this event beyond the court. The team supports Ty at numerous competitions, plays shoot-around basketball at the park, and enjoys having Ty out to Northwestern games.
Most recently, Ty and Cody were invited by Special Olympics Minnesota to attend "Bowling for Soup," an event benefiting local food groups in the Twin Cities. The pair bowled, played arcade games and was able to meet Minnesota Timberwolves player Ricky Rubio.

"I am simply one player on the team at Northwestern that has become friends with Tyshady and I think it is safe to say he has had a positive impact on all of us," said Sprenger. "He has taught us to be thankful for the relationships we have with our friends in all circumstances. We have been able to share the good times together and can help encourage each other in the not so good times. You can always count on him for some good laughs!"

Ty sent a message to share with Cody and his teammates in response to this article:

"Cody Sprenger is my friend & is an awesome friend. We play sports together & basketball & he takes me to events with him. My Northwestern friends are always there for me & they are like brothers to me. Cody Sprenger is an awesome basketball player. I, Tyshady, played basketball with him last summer & beat him 1 on 1. Tyshady's got it, but Cody never puts me down, God loves all my friends from Northwestern & me I'm becoming a Christian like them. Thanks again, Northwestern, for everything.   P.S. I would like to thank the seniors, Matt Watnemo, Thomas Shephard, Blake Van Maanen & Dan Petkau for all their hard work & may are Lord look after them wherever they are. You guys rock."