Fort McMurray’s love for basketball is all ages.
Walter and Gladys Hill Public School are hosting their 5th annual grade 5-6 boys basketball city finals this weekend.
This year’s tournament is sure to be their biggest yet, according to tournament organizer and gym teacher David Hurley.
“This is the first year we have 16 schools competing. Schools from Fort McMurray Public School District, and the Catholic district. It’s a boys tournament, there are some co-ed teams with the smaller schools, but we’re excited to have everyone competing this weekend.”
This year, Hurley said they will divide the teams into four groups of four on Friday, March 15, with teams progressing to the playoff round on Saturday, March 16.
The goal, like every year, is to keep it fun.
“Introduce them [to] competition, but also getting that playing experience.”
With as many as 200 children competing this weekend, one would expect a busy atmosphere at the Eagle Ridge school.
However, at Walter and Gladys Hill, it’s business as usual.
“Elementary athletics has been growing for the past five years. We host up to 12 tournaments a year: Volleyball, basketball, badminton, and even track and field now, so we’re excited to see what our kids can do.”
Hurley expects a full house, so come early to score some good seats and a prime parking spot.
Access the Walter and Gladys Hill Public School website for more information on this weekend’s tournament.
