USCB's Nick Montford, Jeff Riley and Jacob Murasko Champion Inclusion in Special Olympics and on Campus
For USCB student Nick Montford, college isn't just about classes—it's about community. Montford, who just finished his first year at USCB, has already made a name for himself on campus— as a unified basketball player and bowler, and as a fierce advocate, loyal teammate, and thoughtful friend to Area 8 Special Olympians Jacob Murasko and Jeff Riley.
Through his involvement with Special Olympics South Carolina Area 8—which serves Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties—Nick has become a beacon of inclusion, helping his friends Jacob and Jeff find purpose, pride, and an important place in USCB campus life.
Nick plays alongside Murasko and Riley on the Area 8 unified basketball team, where athletes with and without intellectual disabilities team up in spirited competition. Off the court, he’s Jeff’s bowling partner and biggest cheerleader—and together, the duo recently earned an impressive fourth-place finish at the Special Olympics South Carolina state bowling tournament, held in Columbia on May 9–11, 2025.
"They’re awesome teammates and even better people," Nick said. "Jeff is a much better bowler than I am. I’m just trying not to bring his score down."
Montford’s impact goes far beyond the scoreboard.
Thanks to his initiative, both Murasko and Riley now hold unique roles as volunteers in the USCB Athletics Department.
Murasko is mascot security for Finnegan, the Sand Shark's beloved mascot. At games and events, he accompanies Finnegan as he moves through through crowds eager for a high-five or photo.
"We are excited that Jeff and Jacob were able to join our Athletics Game Day Staff this year. They both have been a tremendous asset to our program, have become fan favorites, and are valued by our basketball teams," said Genia Montford, Deputy Directory of USCB Athletics.
For Murasko and Riley, the opportunities mean the world. For Nick, it's simple.
"I am lucky to be their friend. They have tons of friends, and I enjoy being on their teams," he said.
When Riley graduated from USCB earlier this month, earning a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, no one was prouder than Nick. Murasko is hoping to head off next year to academic and residential program Clemson Life at Clemson University. His experiences at the Special Olympics and at USCB will no doubt give him a sense of confidence and familiarity with college life.
At USCB, inclusion isn't just a goal—it's a way of life.
"Unified Special Olympic Sports at USCB is a powerful platform where Athletes like Jeff, Jacob and Nick collaborate, break barriers and inspire us all. It’s a testament to the incredible power of inclusion and teamwork, " said Kathy Cramer, Co-Area Director of Special Olympics Area 8.
Extra Credit
Watch Riley's video interview highlighting his experience with Special Olympics and USCB basketball.
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CW 5/12/25