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When Scott Decker first brought his family to an Iowa Wolves game, it opened a whole new world — not for him, but for his youngest son, Andy. Andy is on the autism spectrum and has struggled with socializing, especially when he was younger. However, that first experience of professional basketball right here in Des Moines made him, and the family, feel right at home.

“He was able to connect with something,” Scott said. “School wasn’t the easiest thing for him, but basketball helped him learn to add and subtract. He joined sports teams as he got older, got involved, and I really think that’s because he was able to connect with basketball. Today, he still watches every Iowa Wolves game.”

That special experience — back when the team was named the Energy — hooked the Deckers, who have been season ticket holders ever since. Each family member enjoys different parts of the game day atmosphere. Scott, a huge sports fan, loves watching some of the NBA’s rising stars. Andy keeps score the old-school way, with pencil and paper. His oldest son, Payton, gravitates toward the arena’s many food options, while his wife, Becky, enjoys following certain players and has become one of the Iowa Wolves’ biggest fans.

“It’s something we’ve always looked forward to doing as a family,” Scott said.

The Deckers are one of many families who come out to enjoy Iowa Wolves basketball each year. The team provides a family-friendly game day atmosphere that’s tough to beat. Whether it’s interacting with the team’s mascot, Alpha, getting face paint, or watching high-level professional basketball, there’s something for everyone.

“Iowa Wolves basketball is an exciting way to spend time during the winter, especially for kids,” said Alex Barker, the Iowa Wolves’ director of ticket sales. “The overall game atmosphere is just fun. Our staff goes above and beyond to make sure you have a great experience.”

For fans aged 3 to 12, the Wolves offer Alpha’s Pup Club. Members enjoy several perks, including a free ticket to all home games, discounts at the team store, exclusive merchandise and more — all for just $25. For families, the Alpha’s Family Deal, presented by Hy-Vee, is a great option. It includes four tickets, four hot dogs and four sodas, for only $60.

One of the most popular family-friendly offerings is the birthday party package. Families receive 10 tickets with meal vouchers and a personal visit from Alpha. To make the day even more special, birthday celebrations are featured on the jumbotron during the game, with a shoutout from the public announcing team. At the end of the game, kids leave with a to-go bag filled with Iowa Wolves merchandise.

The Iowa Wolves’ goal is to provide something the whole family can enjoy — and the stories, like the Deckers, prove its success.

“We hear it all the time from families,” said Barker, whose own toddler loves pointing and saying hi to Alpha. “Kids will say, ‘I want to go back to the Wolves game.’ From there, the stories build.”

Looking for a specific family-friendly event? On Sunday, Feb. 23, the Iowa Wolves will host a special celebration for Alpha’s birthday. Alpha will be joined by mascot friends for a 3 p.m. tipoff — a rare day game. The first 1,000 fans will receive a special giveaway. Check out the Iowa Wolves’ promo schedule for more details.

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