BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Disabilities are not getting in the way of 29-year-old Ashleigh Witt, dominating on the court. 

Whitt always knew she navigated through life differently than others. Reflecting on her life living with autism, she explained it as nothing less than difficult. Struggling to make friends and excel in school, Witt has always tried her best to make do with her situation. 

“I didn’t do really well in elementary school, so my mama brought me all kinds of puzzles like these and they help me read. So I’m trying to get better at it, and now I’m still getting better at it.” Says Witt. 

Witt moved from Bowling Green from Brownsville, Kentucky and decided to get more involved with the special needs community. She didn't realize her involvement would give her a new group of people she feels are family. 

She started taking cooking classes, but also looked into joining the basketball team. Going to practices and forming relationships with teammates, she began to look forward to practice not to just for rebounds and free throws, but to see those she calls her family. 

“I love it. Every day I put a smile on my face and see my family here.” Learning and growing on and off the court, Witt hopes to get a job this year and begin growing in her personal life. 

You can find Witt and her teammates will be in Louisville from March 13 through the 15 for the Special Olympics State Basketball Tournament.