After winning a national championship in the late 90's and generally being one of the formidable programs in the country for the better part of a decade or more, Bishop's Gaiters have been retrenching for a few seasons recently as the transition from legendary coach Eddie Pomykala, who brought instant national exposure to the Lennoxville university with the 1998 CIAU championship, to new Coach Rod Gilpin happens. Gilpin, a native of Sudbury, ON, who played for Coach Peter Campbell at Laurentian in the late 80's, early 90's, begins his second season in Lennoxville and it is clear that he has worked the recruiting trail hard, especially in Southern Ontario, in an effort to bring the Gaiters back to the playoffs.
Gilpin, who must replace 6'0" Junior Nicolas, a "Q" league all-star and one of the better Gaiters of all time through his career and 6'5" Cam Mowat - representing the majority of their three point shooting from last season, had the Gaiters in early this season to prepare for an NCAA game subsequently didn't happen, but, with so many newcomers, the practice time was well spent, assessing a group that has at least 7 newcomers. Bishop's has experience returning up front in 5th year forward Damon Thomas-Anderson and fellow 6'5" forward Hermon Tesfaghebriel. Thomas-Anderson averaged 9.5 ppg/4.5 rpg as the usual starter up front while Tesfaghbriel (11.4 ppg/4.3 rpg) is probably the wild card on this roster. When he is right and not in foul trouble, he can carry the team offensively but must do a better job on the glass and embrace the role of scorer. Both forwards can stretch defenses from the perimeter occasionally and give Bishop's a veteran front line.
Gilpen's first recruiting class last season garnered a pair of all-conference rookie team selections in 6'7" Tim Hunter from John Abbott CEGEP, who started 14 of 16 league games and played 26 minutes per game (second on team) and 6'2" guard D'arcy Nash (Toronto Cedarbrae), who averaged 8.1 ppg in 9 starts. Both figure very prominently in Bishop's future and are definite rotation guys although Nash is currently playing for the football Gaiters as a two-sport athlete.
Other returnees who look to push for time on the wing are 6'2" Tim McAleenan (5th year) and 6'3" Kevin Selman (3rd year). Former Toronto Oakwood star 6'5" Ryan Steele also enters his second season as a swing forward. 6'9" center Jesse Feith, entering his sophomore season after arriving at Bishop's from the NEDA program, is currently sidelined after recovering from shoulder surgery in the spring.
Gilpin followed up last season's strong class with another top notch set of recruits, focusing primarily on Southern Ontario to get another stable of rotation-ready players including a pair of transfers for the back court. 5'10" Jelani Matthew (4th year transfer/Sheridan College) is expected to start at the point should have an immediate impact given his success in the OCAA over the past 3 seasons. Another transfer originally from Southern Ontario, 6'1" Oraine Green (Ajax, ON) is a combo guard who transfers in from Delta State University in Cleveland, MI, NCAA Division II program in the Gulf South Conference. A lock down defender and deft passer, Oraine, who can also score when needed, will help make up for the unexpected loss of Donald Lindo, who was hired by the Durham Region Children’s Aid society and will be working full time there while finishing his degree part time in Toronto.
In 6'6" wing Chris East, a transfer from ASA Institute in Brooklyn, NY, the Gaiters get an ultra athletic forward who at 215 pounds has the body to be effective inside or on the perimeter. East will likely be out until after Christmas recovering from knee surgery. 6'5" Capilano College transfer Pat Shier, a strong and physical presence inside who does all the dirty work inside as a potentially very important complement to the incumbent forwards.
Not to be outdone with 4 solid transfers, Gilpin brings in a trio of Ontario high school freshmen, most impressive of which could be 6'2" guard Onnex Blackwood, who started on OFSAA ‘AAAA’ finalist Mother Theresa Titans last season. A great finisher around the basket and on the break, Blackwood could be one of the fastest players in the conference filling the lanes out on the break. 6'4" Jeremy Leonard-Smith, a hard nosed defender and physical presence from a perimeter position, won an OFSAA ‘AAA’ title at Ottawa St. Matt’s last year and should push for time. Another Ottawa product, 5'11" Jamil Abiad is a fantastic athlete finishing 4th at OFSAA Track last year in the 400 m and was part of the gold medal winning 4 X 100 m relay team. Abiad's has tremendous upside and should mature into a nice CIS player as his career evolves.
Finally, the Gaiters expect 6'5" Chris Kuete, a native of Cameroon who was the Most Valuable Player in Malaysian National Basketball League in 2008, to join the program at Christmas as another potentially high-impact newcomer.
Gilpin feels he has improved the overall talent and athleticism of his group and once roles are defined and the group gels, the Gaiters should be in the mix for a playoff spot in the tough "Q", a spot which last season they missed only due to a tie-breaker. Bishop's has back-to-back tournaments in Ottawa in October, first at Carleton for the House-Laughton tournament and then later at the Jack Donohue Memorial Tip-off tournament at uOttawa.
Monday, 21 September 2009
Sunday, 20 September 2009
I've been out and about with family for most of the weekend which has been great (although Aaron Corp's performance yesterday in Seattle has left me noticeably more ornery than normal). Thanks to the numerous coaches who have patiently worked with me on finalizing team previews - we plan to have several more in the coming days. Here is a note from HoopsVibe on Steve Nash and his chances of suiting up for Canada at next summer's FIBA World Championships in Turkey.
Why Steve Nash is “a real long shot” to play for Canada at FIBA World Championship
It would have taken one phone call.
That’s all Steve Nash would have had to do for Canada Basketball to roll out the red carpet and hold a roster spot for him on the team heading to the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey.
Instead of calling in a favor with the organization he represented for a decade, the former NBA All-Star told reporters at his ‘Showdown in Downtown’ charity soccer game in Vancouver that he wouldn’t play at next summer’s tournament and reiterated that his international career is likely finished.
“I think that (playing in Turkey) is a real long shot,” said Nash.
“I have so many commitments already and my commitment to the Suns. Something would have to give and I don’t know if I could make it through physically and mentally. Like I said, five or six years ago, my time with the national team is probably over.”
Nobody should be shocked Nash won’t suit up for Canada, but not for the reason he mentioned. At Saturday’s event it was obvious he’s in terrific shape, fully capable of dominating both the soccer pitch and basketball court.
Nash could be passing on the World Championship for a different reason: he didn’t play in the qualifying FIBA Tournament of the Americas and doesn’t want to disrupt chemistry.
It’s becoming all too common with national programs. NBA superstars let lower level pros take care of business during the qualifying tournaments and, once the team has secured a spot in the Olympics or World Championship, they suddenly become available to represent their country.
These arrangements divide teams. After all, players toiling in various European leagues get the grunt work of long training camps and gruelling exhibition games, while the NBA hotshot gets the spotlight and accolades of high profile events.
This can create problems. For instance, Philadelphia 76ers centre Sam Dalembert was kicked off the Canadian team at the Beijing Olympics for not gelling with teammates. Dalembert became a Canadian citizen months before the 2008 Olympics.
USA Basketball stumbled before the recent ‘Redeem Team’ because its best players believed tournaments and training camps were optional. The Americans only reclaimed their perch atop the world’s basketball throne in Beijing after their elite talent made a three-year commitment to the program in 2005.
Nash understands joining the Canadian team after it had done the heavy lifting at the Tournament of the Americas might not jive with some teammates. Worst of all, he’d have to take a roster spot from someone else
Watching Nash give to others at his ’Showdown in Downtown’, it’s no surprise he’s opting-out of the 2010 World Championship. Instead of criticizing, we should appreciate his decision.
Why Steve Nash is “a real long shot” to play for Canada at FIBA World Championship
It would have taken one phone call.
That’s all Steve Nash would have had to do for Canada Basketball to roll out the red carpet and hold a roster spot for him on the team heading to the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey.
Instead of calling in a favor with the organization he represented for a decade, the former NBA All-Star told reporters at his ‘Showdown in Downtown’ charity soccer game in Vancouver that he wouldn’t play at next summer’s tournament and reiterated that his international career is likely finished.
“I think that (playing in Turkey) is a real long shot,” said Nash.
“I have so many commitments already and my commitment to the Suns. Something would have to give and I don’t know if I could make it through physically and mentally. Like I said, five or six years ago, my time with the national team is probably over.”
Nobody should be shocked Nash won’t suit up for Canada, but not for the reason he mentioned. At Saturday’s event it was obvious he’s in terrific shape, fully capable of dominating both the soccer pitch and basketball court.
Nash could be passing on the World Championship for a different reason: he didn’t play in the qualifying FIBA Tournament of the Americas and doesn’t want to disrupt chemistry.
It’s becoming all too common with national programs. NBA superstars let lower level pros take care of business during the qualifying tournaments and, once the team has secured a spot in the Olympics or World Championship, they suddenly become available to represent their country.
These arrangements divide teams. After all, players toiling in various European leagues get the grunt work of long training camps and gruelling exhibition games, while the NBA hotshot gets the spotlight and accolades of high profile events.
This can create problems. For instance, Philadelphia 76ers centre Sam Dalembert was kicked off the Canadian team at the Beijing Olympics for not gelling with teammates. Dalembert became a Canadian citizen months before the 2008 Olympics.
USA Basketball stumbled before the recent ‘Redeem Team’ because its best players believed tournaments and training camps were optional. The Americans only reclaimed their perch atop the world’s basketball throne in Beijing after their elite talent made a three-year commitment to the program in 2005.
Nash understands joining the Canadian team after it had done the heavy lifting at the Tournament of the Americas might not jive with some teammates. Worst of all, he’d have to take a roster spot from someone else
Watching Nash give to others at his ’Showdown in Downtown’, it’s no surprise he’s opting-out of the 2010 World Championship. Instead of criticizing, we should appreciate his decision.
Friday, 18 September 2009
More on Mount Royal's CIS Aspirations
Calgary Sun article on this topic which uncovers an interesting factoid that says that new memberships for Canada West are only taken every four years.
So when's Mount Royal joining the CIS? U just gotta wait and see
By WES GILBERTSON
They're the Mount Royal University Cougars now.
But it'll be a few more years -- at least -- before the Cougars are swapping baskets or body-checks with the cross-town Calgary Dinos in Canada West conference action.
"There is a definite buzz and people saying. 'Aren't you competing in Canada West yet.' Oh no, it's not that easy," said Karla Karch, the athletics manager at the newly-minted MRU. "But every step of the way has been exciting for us because it's one step closer for us to even apply."
Mount Royal's ascent to university status didn't happen overnight, but there's still plenty of hurdles to clear before the Cougars begin facing off against the Dinos, Alberta Golden Bears, Lethbridge Pronghorns and others.
Canada West officials accept applications for new members once every four years, with the next window for would-be newcomers opening in 2012. If the Cougars are approved, it'll likely be 2014 before their conference debut.
They're not the only ones knocking at the door.
The SAIT Trojans have also expressed interest in competing at the university level and have even explored the possibility of joining the U.S.-based NCAA, where some of the most storied rivalries exist between universities and the tech schools just down the road.
For now, both schools will continue to comepete in the ACAC ranks, where they've enjoyed plenty of success.
The Trojans hung their third consecutive men's hockey banner last season, while Mount Royal's men's basketball team won provincial and national bragging rights last spring. All told, the Cougars have won 91 ACAC team titles and 13 national championships.
"We are very proud of the history, but at the same time, we're looking to transition to the next level," Karch said. "Right now, we're a bigger fish in a small pond. When we can attract students for four of five years versus a college that can attract them for two years and then a transfer, we definitely have the advantage, without a doubt.
"When we go to that next level, we're going to be a small fish in a big pond. Will we see immediate success? I'm not sure, but our ultimate goal is long-term, big-picture."
So when's Mount Royal joining the CIS? U just gotta wait and see
By WES GILBERTSON
They're the Mount Royal University Cougars now.
But it'll be a few more years -- at least -- before the Cougars are swapping baskets or body-checks with the cross-town Calgary Dinos in Canada West conference action.
"There is a definite buzz and people saying. 'Aren't you competing in Canada West yet.' Oh no, it's not that easy," said Karla Karch, the athletics manager at the newly-minted MRU. "But every step of the way has been exciting for us because it's one step closer for us to even apply."
Mount Royal's ascent to university status didn't happen overnight, but there's still plenty of hurdles to clear before the Cougars begin facing off against the Dinos, Alberta Golden Bears, Lethbridge Pronghorns and others.
Canada West officials accept applications for new members once every four years, with the next window for would-be newcomers opening in 2012. If the Cougars are approved, it'll likely be 2014 before their conference debut.
They're not the only ones knocking at the door.
The SAIT Trojans have also expressed interest in competing at the university level and have even explored the possibility of joining the U.S.-based NCAA, where some of the most storied rivalries exist between universities and the tech schools just down the road.
For now, both schools will continue to comepete in the ACAC ranks, where they've enjoyed plenty of success.
The Trojans hung their third consecutive men's hockey banner last season, while Mount Royal's men's basketball team won provincial and national bragging rights last spring. All told, the Cougars have won 91 ACAC team titles and 13 national championships.
"We are very proud of the history, but at the same time, we're looking to transition to the next level," Karch said. "Right now, we're a bigger fish in a small pond. When we can attract students for four of five years versus a college that can attract them for two years and then a transfer, we definitely have the advantage, without a doubt.
"When we go to that next level, we're going to be a small fish in a big pond. Will we see immediate success? I'm not sure, but our ultimate goal is long-term, big-picture."
NCAA Dream comes true for Kong
Howard Tsumura of the Vancouver Province, who does such a fine job of covering high school and University sports in B.C. - his site Little Man on Campus is a must bookmark, has produced a piece on Bol Kong, who finally made it to Gonzaga earlier this week. Kong, who had been hotly pursued by several CIS schools, will have three seasons of eligibility remaining with the Bulldogs. Interestingly, the school and/or the basketball program have yet to make an official announcement regarding Kong's arrival and the SID from Gonzaga issued a "no comment" to Howard's request.
Dream comes true for Kong
VANCOUVER -- Bol Kong awoke on U.S. soil Thursday morning, determined to turn his greatest nightmare into his wildest dream.
The Province has confirmed through multiple sources that after years of being unable to gain entrance into the U.S. to play college basketball, the prodigious 6-foot-7 talent, one of the top players produced in B.C. high school basketball history, was finally allowed entry and is set to play for NCAA Div. 1 power Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
When profiled in The Province two years ago, Kong had been denied on several occasions to gain a student visa to travel stateside, owing to the fact that he didn't have all of the proper documentation in place for its processing. As well, he had to make sure he had met all of the academic standings required to attend the school.
Kong, who was born in Sudan, has been living in Vancouver since the age of 16 when his family moved from Calgary. And now, after gaining his Canadian citizenship in May, he also has the opportunity to play for the Canadian national team.
He left B.C. on Wednesday afternoon and by evening had arrived on the campus at Gonzaga, set to join a program that already boasts two former B.C. prep standouts in Rob Sacre of North Vancouver and Kelly Olynyk of Kamloops.
"I am happy to tell you the truth, that he's there," said former Richmond, SFU and UBC star Pasha Bains, who has had Kong involved with his DRIVE Basketball Academy the past three years. "He crossed the border last night and he sent a text message as soon as he got across that he was on his way to Gonzaga. He sent us another message when he got there."
Added Bains: "There were a lot exclamation points (in the text)."
The 21-year-old Kong could not be reached for comment and Gonzaga sports information director Oliver Pierce said late Thursday afternoon: "Right now we're in a 'No comment' mode. At this point we have no comment on his status."
Kong graduated from Vancouver's St. George's Secondary in 2006, sat out the 2006-07 season, then helped New Westminster's Douglas College win the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association title in 2007-08.
He has not played on a formal team since, but recently spent time with Basketball Canada's National Elite Development Academy (NEDA) in Ontario.
"He had to get down to the States because that is an environment in which he can flourish,” said Jamie Oei, Kong's former head coach at Douglas. “So it's great to see him get there so he can go about having a really great career."
Randy Nohr, the former Canadian national team player and current lead assistant coach of the UBC men's team, said he saw Kong playing on the outdoor courts over the summer in Vancouver, and felt that Kong's NEDA experience has been a positive.
"He's improved his game in the past year," said Nohr of Kong, who has a seven-foot wingspan and all variety of shots in his arsenal, including a silky-smooth jumper from three-point range. "He looked better than he did a couple of years ago."
Said Kong in Sept. of 2007 to The Province: "It's like teasing you to come, but you can't get there. But if I get in, it will be great. Like this huge weight has finally been lifted."
By all reports, that's precisely how he felt on Wednesday.
Also, a quick note from Spokesman.com a local site in Spokane, WA on Kong's arrival
Official: Kong is a Zag
Bol Kong is finally a Zag
Kong, a Sudanese native who has lived in Canada since the age of 7, has enrolled for classes at Gonzaga after obtaining Canadian citizenship recently and his student visa earlier this week. The talented, 6-foot-7 forward verbally committed to the Bulldogs’ basketball program in May, 2008, roughly at the same time as fellow Zag Mangisto Arop, a native of Sudan who also settled in Canada at a young age.
But Kong’s status was in doubt – and the subject of endless Internet debate – as he worked through the immigration process for roughly the last 16 months. Arop’s paperwork apparently was already in order. Kong arrived in Spokane late Wednesday night, his first time on U.S. soil, and was on campus for classes Thursday, Gonzaga athletic director Mike Roth said.
Elias Harris, a 6-7 forward who just finished playing for Germany in the European Championships, is expected to arrive in Spokane on Saturday, which would complete GU’s roster for the upcoming season.
More in the next hour or so, including the release of the schedule.
Finally, an interview with Kong's former coach at Douglas College Jamie Oei
Dream comes true for Kong
VANCOUVER -- Bol Kong awoke on U.S. soil Thursday morning, determined to turn his greatest nightmare into his wildest dream.
The Province has confirmed through multiple sources that after years of being unable to gain entrance into the U.S. to play college basketball, the prodigious 6-foot-7 talent, one of the top players produced in B.C. high school basketball history, was finally allowed entry and is set to play for NCAA Div. 1 power Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
When profiled in The Province two years ago, Kong had been denied on several occasions to gain a student visa to travel stateside, owing to the fact that he didn't have all of the proper documentation in place for its processing. As well, he had to make sure he had met all of the academic standings required to attend the school.
Kong, who was born in Sudan, has been living in Vancouver since the age of 16 when his family moved from Calgary. And now, after gaining his Canadian citizenship in May, he also has the opportunity to play for the Canadian national team.
He left B.C. on Wednesday afternoon and by evening had arrived on the campus at Gonzaga, set to join a program that already boasts two former B.C. prep standouts in Rob Sacre of North Vancouver and Kelly Olynyk of Kamloops.
"I am happy to tell you the truth, that he's there," said former Richmond, SFU and UBC star Pasha Bains, who has had Kong involved with his DRIVE Basketball Academy the past three years. "He crossed the border last night and he sent a text message as soon as he got across that he was on his way to Gonzaga. He sent us another message when he got there."
Added Bains: "There were a lot exclamation points (in the text)."
The 21-year-old Kong could not be reached for comment and Gonzaga sports information director Oliver Pierce said late Thursday afternoon: "Right now we're in a 'No comment' mode. At this point we have no comment on his status."
Kong graduated from Vancouver's St. George's Secondary in 2006, sat out the 2006-07 season, then helped New Westminster's Douglas College win the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association title in 2007-08.
He has not played on a formal team since, but recently spent time with Basketball Canada's National Elite Development Academy (NEDA) in Ontario.
"He had to get down to the States because that is an environment in which he can flourish,” said Jamie Oei, Kong's former head coach at Douglas. “So it's great to see him get there so he can go about having a really great career."
Randy Nohr, the former Canadian national team player and current lead assistant coach of the UBC men's team, said he saw Kong playing on the outdoor courts over the summer in Vancouver, and felt that Kong's NEDA experience has been a positive.
"He's improved his game in the past year," said Nohr of Kong, who has a seven-foot wingspan and all variety of shots in his arsenal, including a silky-smooth jumper from three-point range. "He looked better than he did a couple of years ago."
Said Kong in Sept. of 2007 to The Province: "It's like teasing you to come, but you can't get there. But if I get in, it will be great. Like this huge weight has finally been lifted."
By all reports, that's precisely how he felt on Wednesday.
Also, a quick note from Spokesman.com a local site in Spokane, WA on Kong's arrival
Official: Kong is a Zag
Bol Kong is finally a Zag
Kong, a Sudanese native who has lived in Canada since the age of 7, has enrolled for classes at Gonzaga after obtaining Canadian citizenship recently and his student visa earlier this week. The talented, 6-foot-7 forward verbally committed to the Bulldogs’ basketball program in May, 2008, roughly at the same time as fellow Zag Mangisto Arop, a native of Sudan who also settled in Canada at a young age.
But Kong’s status was in doubt – and the subject of endless Internet debate – as he worked through the immigration process for roughly the last 16 months. Arop’s paperwork apparently was already in order. Kong arrived in Spokane late Wednesday night, his first time on U.S. soil, and was on campus for classes Thursday, Gonzaga athletic director Mike Roth said.
Elias Harris, a 6-7 forward who just finished playing for Germany in the European Championships, is expected to arrive in Spokane on Saturday, which would complete GU’s roster for the upcoming season.
More in the next hour or so, including the release of the schedule.
Finally, an interview with Kong's former coach at Douglas College Jamie Oei
Thursday, 17 September 2009
TSN to broadcast CIS Nationals
After a couple of years on the SCORE during which coverage was excellent with very well prepared broadcasters, especially Tim Micallef, and a seasoned production team, it appears the men's Nationals will be broadcast on TSN after the CIS announced a two year deal with TSN today. According to below, the deal includes broadcast of CIS men's basketball championship final, semi-finals and quarter-finals. Specific details were not announced, nor were the terms of the agreement, specificially whether or not there are any economic considerations coming back to the CIS for the rights to televise or, which has been the case in the past, vice versa.
TSN to broadcast marquee CIS events
TSN has come to an agreement with Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) to be the exclusive broadcaster for several marquee CIS events including the Vanier Cup and the CIS Men's and Women's Basketball finals.
Beginning this November, TSN will broadcast the Vanier Cup along with the Uteck Bowl and the Mitchell Bowl. TSN and TSN2 will also broadcast the CIS Men's Basketball Final, Semifinals and Quarterfinals along with the CIS Women's Basketball Final.
TSN last broadcast CIS events in 2005.
"From the World Juniors to the Canada Games, TSN has had tremendous success in our coverage of amateur sports, and we are thrilled to once again put the national spotlight on the CIS, and its marquee football and basketball events," said Phil King, President of TSN. "Adding the Vanier Cup to our packed week of Grey Cup programming in November will make for a huge weekend for football fans across the country."
"CIS is extremely pleased to partner with TSN in broadcasting several of our marquee events. The ultimate objective of CIS is to ensure that as many Canadian fans from coast to coast have the opportunity to witness CIS championship events. This agreement with TSN will help pave the way towards attaining our objectives," said CIS Director of Marketing, Peter Metuzals. "CIS Football season has started and the Road to the Desjardins Vanier Cup will conclude on November 28 with a live broadcast of the first-ever Vanier Cup in the Province of Quebec, at Laval University. History in the making and available to all."
Broadcast details for CIS events on TSN will be confirmed at a later date.
TSN to broadcast marquee CIS events
TSN has come to an agreement with Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) to be the exclusive broadcaster for several marquee CIS events including the Vanier Cup and the CIS Men's and Women's Basketball finals.
Beginning this November, TSN will broadcast the Vanier Cup along with the Uteck Bowl and the Mitchell Bowl. TSN and TSN2 will also broadcast the CIS Men's Basketball Final, Semifinals and Quarterfinals along with the CIS Women's Basketball Final.
TSN last broadcast CIS events in 2005.
"From the World Juniors to the Canada Games, TSN has had tremendous success in our coverage of amateur sports, and we are thrilled to once again put the national spotlight on the CIS, and its marquee football and basketball events," said Phil King, President of TSN. "Adding the Vanier Cup to our packed week of Grey Cup programming in November will make for a huge weekend for football fans across the country."
"CIS is extremely pleased to partner with TSN in broadcasting several of our marquee events. The ultimate objective of CIS is to ensure that as many Canadian fans from coast to coast have the opportunity to witness CIS championship events. This agreement with TSN will help pave the way towards attaining our objectives," said CIS Director of Marketing, Peter Metuzals. "CIS Football season has started and the Road to the Desjardins Vanier Cup will conclude on November 28 with a live broadcast of the first-ever Vanier Cup in the Province of Quebec, at Laval University. History in the making and available to all."
Broadcast details for CIS events on TSN will be confirmed at a later date.
Raptors Triano promotes homegrown coaching
In this recent Doug Smith piece in the Toronto Star, it is great to see Jay recognize and share with the general public his feelings on how great the coaching is that we have here in Canada. My experience is that, technically, our coaches are on par or better than many higher profile guys south of the border and Jay touches on the reasons why more people don't know or understand this. The ability of our governing bodies to market our fine product, which includes our world-class coaching, will determine how this may change going forward. Great on Jay !
Raptors Triano promotes homegrown coaching
Jay Triano discusses the role of sports coaches in Canada from a unique perspective, having risen through the domestic ranks to get one of only 30 jobs available on earth.
And when it comes to defending the role of those coaches – in any sport at any level in the country – the head coach of the Raptors accepts the responsibility with ease.
"There's an awful lot of people who put in an awful lot of time preparing soccer teams and stuff like that ... they do it for the love of the sport and the development of children," Triano said yesterday. "That's why I got involved in this, it's a no-brainer."
This is a program initiated by Campbell's Soup, along with the Coaching Association of Canada and TSN, to recognize the nearly two million coaches of various sports at various levels across the country. Coaches can be nominated at www.chunkymvc.ca, with the winner getting a $25,000 prize for his or her athletes and community.
"While I'm head coach of the Raptors and the only Canadian doing it, if I can help promote the cause of coaches in this country, I'm going to do it," he said. "I think it gets in you. We've all coached somebody somehow and you have an impact on somebody."
Triano grew up playing minor sports in Niagara Falls, Ont., with a variety of volunteer coaches, moved to Simon Fraser University and played under the iconic Jack Donohue with Canada's national program. Triano coached at Simon Fraser, ran the national team and was an NBA assistant for seven years before getting the head coaching job in Toronto. He's played for and worked with a variety of men but had steadfastly supported Canadian coaches – particularly in basketball – for years.
"I don't mean to put anybody down, but Gene Keady was here (with the Raptors) for a year; I don't think Gene knows any more Xs and Os than Mike Katz from the University of Toronto or how to teach it any better and he's a hall of fame coach," said Triano. "The perception is, because he does it with better athletes and under a bigger spotlight, that he is a better coach and I don't think that's the case.
"We have great coaches in this country; I don't think we have the resources for them or the athletes to compete at the same level."
Raptors Triano promotes homegrown coaching
Jay Triano discusses the role of sports coaches in Canada from a unique perspective, having risen through the domestic ranks to get one of only 30 jobs available on earth.
And when it comes to defending the role of those coaches – in any sport at any level in the country – the head coach of the Raptors accepts the responsibility with ease.
"There's an awful lot of people who put in an awful lot of time preparing soccer teams and stuff like that ... they do it for the love of the sport and the development of children," Triano said yesterday. "That's why I got involved in this, it's a no-brainer."
This is a program initiated by Campbell's Soup, along with the Coaching Association of Canada and TSN, to recognize the nearly two million coaches of various sports at various levels across the country. Coaches can be nominated at www.chunkymvc.ca, with the winner getting a $25,000 prize for his or her athletes and community.
"While I'm head coach of the Raptors and the only Canadian doing it, if I can help promote the cause of coaches in this country, I'm going to do it," he said. "I think it gets in you. We've all coached somebody somehow and you have an impact on somebody."
Triano grew up playing minor sports in Niagara Falls, Ont., with a variety of volunteer coaches, moved to Simon Fraser University and played under the iconic Jack Donohue with Canada's national program. Triano coached at Simon Fraser, ran the national team and was an NBA assistant for seven years before getting the head coaching job in Toronto. He's played for and worked with a variety of men but had steadfastly supported Canadian coaches – particularly in basketball – for years.
"I don't mean to put anybody down, but Gene Keady was here (with the Raptors) for a year; I don't think Gene knows any more Xs and Os than Mike Katz from the University of Toronto or how to teach it any better and he's a hall of fame coach," said Triano. "The perception is, because he does it with better athletes and under a bigger spotlight, that he is a better coach and I don't think that's the case.
"We have great coaches in this country; I don't think we have the resources for them or the athletes to compete at the same level."
Can UVic fly under the radar in Canada West ?
For a program that has been a perennial Top 10 team during the Craig Beaucamp era, including making it as far as the National championship game in 2005-06, not being mentioned among the early favorites for the Canada West crown is an uncommon occurance. With the loss of a pair of 35+ per minute game forwards in Canada West all-stars 6'6" Tyler Hass and 6'7" Mitch Gudgeon plus 6'1" Brandon Dunlop not returing, few view the Vikes as a sure-fire nationals contender. However, under Beaucamp, the Vikes have led or have been near the top in Canada West defensive stats because, fundamentally, they defend and they rebound. Beaucamp was able to refortify his front line, where there is plenty of opportunity for playing time, and bring in another couple of impact guards to the roster so expect Vic to continue to make it hellish for opponents to score, keep games in the 60's and once again be there at the end - flying under the radar may not be possible for this group as the season progresses.
6'4" third-year three-man Ryan MacKinnon becomes Vic's feature guy offensively and MacKinnon's size and strength has increased, especially with his strong work in the weight room in the off-season during which he gained 15 lbs. MacKinnon is Vikes best overall scorer with range beyond the three point line and look for him to take the mantle as a leader within this group. Another veteran, 6'0" Cyril Indome, entering his fifth and final year, is described by Beaucamp as a "heart and soul guy who leads on and off the court" and has been an energizer off the bench during his Vikes career. Indome will continue to display his versatility as a tireless worker playing anywhere from the one to the three offensively and usually checking the opponent's best ball handler or scorer with his tight on-the-ball "d".
With the losses of Hass and Gudgeon up front, expect Beaucamp to initially give several guys a shot at time with the view that one or two of the candidates will grab the opportunity and star as Gudgeon did midway through his career. Leading the returning forwards is 6'6" fourth-year athlete Wendell Thomas, who simply took off in the second half of last season, averaging a double/double down the stretch after struggling a bit in the first half with the adjustment from CCAA ball (transfer from UBC-Okanagan). Thomas looks to be even more improved with strong work over the summer as the Vikes go through their early paces here in September. Victoria welcomes back 6'8" third-year forward Mike Berg, who sat out last season while toiling for Canada's National rugby team, for which he was a carded athlete. Berg, a burly 230 lbs. 4/5 traditional low-post type who played for B.C. Provincial team while in high school, is a strong rebounder and defender and an underrated scorer in the low blocks.
Two newcomers should also push for time in the rotation up front as 6'8" Nick Adair, who entered the CIS at UBC as a redshirt two seasons ago before moving on to Camosun College last season where he garnered BCCAA Rookie-of-the-Year honours, brings aggressiveness and above average athleticism to the Vikes front line. Adair is much more physically mature than when he initially entered university and plays to contact, attacking the glass at both ends and uses his 7 foot wing span to alter shots on the defensive end. A nice complement to Adair and Burke is 6'8" Adam Connolly, who developed his above average perimeter skills playing the point in high school. Although he'll move to the wing/4 spot at this level, Connolly is FIBA-type big man with a solid skill set and court vision. Thought to initially be probably a year away, Connolly has impressed early as a flexible 3/4. 6'6" Trevor Scheurmann, a former member of the Manitoba Provincial team, was initially looked upon as a rotation guy up front but he has had his challenges recovering from a torn ACL and will be a medical redshirt this season.
The Vikes further fortified their backcourt with the addition of 5'10" Zac Andrus, a third-year transfer from Whatcom C.C. in Vashon, WA. Beaucamp first saw Andrus when Vikes met Whatcom last season (Andrus had 25 points against the Vikes) and the American lefty impressed with his strong, burly play from the lead guard spot. Andrus, who finished with 25 points against the Vikes, shows great court vision, handles and very strong passing skills, making him a prime candidate to start at the point. Likely to also push for the starting role is returning fourth-year 6'1" Jeff Cullen, who has played more 2 guard in his Victoria career but will transition back to his more natural position at the point. While he can score (25 points in Vic's playoff victory at Trinity Western), Cullen has the IQ and skill set to play the point and has strong basketball influences as his stepfather is former UVic star Ted Anderson. 6'0" Jeff Spoor, also going into his fourth season, should be in the mix supporting at the point guard spot.
Two more newcomers are expected to bring more punch to Vic's offense starting with 6'3" Dan Evans, a transfer from Capilano College where he led BCCAA in scoring in his rookie season. A slasher who has a nose for the rim, Evans will bring instant scoring likely off the bench initially to a group that, after MacKinnon, will need to find consistent secondary scoring. 6'4" Omid Davani, a transfer from Kwantlen College where he averaged about 13 ppg last season is another solid seasoned veteran with a solid body who is strong and big enough to get on the glass as a big guard.
Last season's Vikes lost a tough three-game Pacific Division semi-final series at Trinity Western highlighted by a Game One loss at the buzzer in which Spartans Louis Hurd heaved a desperation three off a broken play to claim the shocking win. This season, with many rightfully touting UBC and Trinity Western as the teams to beat in the Pacific Division and only 8 teams making Canada West playoffs, observers expect the Vikes to battle several teams likely including Simon Fraser and Fraser Valley for third and fourth in the division. But, with the great winning tradition of one of Canada's most storied programs, don't be surprised if the Vikes continue to stay near the top of the Pacific.
Victoria hosts the Guy Vetrie Memorial invitational in October with Carleton and Alberta among the participants.
6'4" third-year three-man Ryan MacKinnon becomes Vic's feature guy offensively and MacKinnon's size and strength has increased, especially with his strong work in the weight room in the off-season during which he gained 15 lbs. MacKinnon is Vikes best overall scorer with range beyond the three point line and look for him to take the mantle as a leader within this group. Another veteran, 6'0" Cyril Indome, entering his fifth and final year, is described by Beaucamp as a "heart and soul guy who leads on and off the court" and has been an energizer off the bench during his Vikes career. Indome will continue to display his versatility as a tireless worker playing anywhere from the one to the three offensively and usually checking the opponent's best ball handler or scorer with his tight on-the-ball "d".
With the losses of Hass and Gudgeon up front, expect Beaucamp to initially give several guys a shot at time with the view that one or two of the candidates will grab the opportunity and star as Gudgeon did midway through his career. Leading the returning forwards is 6'6" fourth-year athlete Wendell Thomas, who simply took off in the second half of last season, averaging a double/double down the stretch after struggling a bit in the first half with the adjustment from CCAA ball (transfer from UBC-Okanagan). Thomas looks to be even more improved with strong work over the summer as the Vikes go through their early paces here in September. Victoria welcomes back 6'8" third-year forward Mike Berg, who sat out last season while toiling for Canada's National rugby team, for which he was a carded athlete. Berg, a burly 230 lbs. 4/5 traditional low-post type who played for B.C. Provincial team while in high school, is a strong rebounder and defender and an underrated scorer in the low blocks.
Two newcomers should also push for time in the rotation up front as 6'8" Nick Adair, who entered the CIS at UBC as a redshirt two seasons ago before moving on to Camosun College last season where he garnered BCCAA Rookie-of-the-Year honours, brings aggressiveness and above average athleticism to the Vikes front line. Adair is much more physically mature than when he initially entered university and plays to contact, attacking the glass at both ends and uses his 7 foot wing span to alter shots on the defensive end. A nice complement to Adair and Burke is 6'8" Adam Connolly, who developed his above average perimeter skills playing the point in high school. Although he'll move to the wing/4 spot at this level, Connolly is FIBA-type big man with a solid skill set and court vision. Thought to initially be probably a year away, Connolly has impressed early as a flexible 3/4. 6'6" Trevor Scheurmann, a former member of the Manitoba Provincial team, was initially looked upon as a rotation guy up front but he has had his challenges recovering from a torn ACL and will be a medical redshirt this season.
The Vikes further fortified their backcourt with the addition of 5'10" Zac Andrus, a third-year transfer from Whatcom C.C. in Vashon, WA. Beaucamp first saw Andrus when Vikes met Whatcom last season (Andrus had 25 points against the Vikes) and the American lefty impressed with his strong, burly play from the lead guard spot. Andrus, who finished with 25 points against the Vikes, shows great court vision, handles and very strong passing skills, making him a prime candidate to start at the point. Likely to also push for the starting role is returning fourth-year 6'1" Jeff Cullen, who has played more 2 guard in his Victoria career but will transition back to his more natural position at the point. While he can score (25 points in Vic's playoff victory at Trinity Western), Cullen has the IQ and skill set to play the point and has strong basketball influences as his stepfather is former UVic star Ted Anderson. 6'0" Jeff Spoor, also going into his fourth season, should be in the mix supporting at the point guard spot.
Two more newcomers are expected to bring more punch to Vic's offense starting with 6'3" Dan Evans, a transfer from Capilano College where he led BCCAA in scoring in his rookie season. A slasher who has a nose for the rim, Evans will bring instant scoring likely off the bench initially to a group that, after MacKinnon, will need to find consistent secondary scoring. 6'4" Omid Davani, a transfer from Kwantlen College where he averaged about 13 ppg last season is another solid seasoned veteran with a solid body who is strong and big enough to get on the glass as a big guard.
Last season's Vikes lost a tough three-game Pacific Division semi-final series at Trinity Western highlighted by a Game One loss at the buzzer in which Spartans Louis Hurd heaved a desperation three off a broken play to claim the shocking win. This season, with many rightfully touting UBC and Trinity Western as the teams to beat in the Pacific Division and only 8 teams making Canada West playoffs, observers expect the Vikes to battle several teams likely including Simon Fraser and Fraser Valley for third and fourth in the division. But, with the great winning tradition of one of Canada's most storied programs, don't be surprised if the Vikes continue to stay near the top of the Pacific.
Victoria hosts the Guy Vetrie Memorial invitational in October with Carleton and Alberta among the participants.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
New Ryerson Facilities coming ?
Nice find by Neate Sager from the CIS Blog in today's Toronto Star indicating that the Ryerson administration is looking at the old Maple Leaf Gardens, located just north of the main Ryerson campus in downtown Toronto, as a possible spot for their planned new athletic facilities, which would likely include a new gym for basketball. Sources advised over the summer that Rye is in the hunt for a location, one of which is the old Gardens, where the Tor/Buff Braves once toiled in the mid-to-late 70's. However, the Gardens is probably one of several areas buildings/locations under consideration. Regardless, expect Ryerson to at a minimum plan for a much larger, modern basketball facility, another excellent development for CIS basketball as those of us who care continue to market the sport in Canada's largest market.
Bol Kong arrives at Gonzaga
According to reports out of Gonzaga, Bol Kong has arrived on campus there and will be suiting up for the Bulldogs this coming season.
Follow this link to a Gonzaga discussion group where this news has had them buzzing all day.
Some reports had Kong staying in Canada to play in the CIS if he did not report to Gonzaga this week. Best of luck to him down south where he will play with several other Canadians. Greg Francis' University of Alberta Golden Bears will be the first team that Kong plays, albeit an official exhibition game, on November 2nd in Spokane.
Once again, much thanks to our still anonymous source in Western Canada for putting us on to this news.
Follow this link to a Gonzaga discussion group where this news has had them buzzing all day.
Some reports had Kong staying in Canada to play in the CIS if he did not report to Gonzaga this week. Best of luck to him down south where he will play with several other Canadians. Greg Francis' University of Alberta Golden Bears will be the first team that Kong plays, albeit an official exhibition game, on November 2nd in Spokane.
Once again, much thanks to our still anonymous source in Western Canada for putting us on to this news.
Rookie Coach Francis filling big shoes
It is never easy to replace or follow a legend and in the case of the Alberta Golden Bears, replacing the man who basically put Bears basketball on the map and led Alberta for 26 years going back to his start in 1983 including capturing 3 CIS National championships, Don Horwood, was no trivial task. However, in former Canadian National team star Greg Francis, the Bears get one of the best available young coaches in Canada, someone with prior ties to the University/Edmonton and maybe most importantly someone who is no stranger to the pressures of high expectations.
As a player, Francis was a star at famed Oakwood Collegiate in Toronto, carrying on a decades-long winning tradition at that program by leading the Barons to an Ontario championship. Francis then culminated a four year career at NCAA Division 1 Fairfield with a historic 30+ point game against North Carolina Tar Heels in the first round of the NCAA tournament in his graduating year. Later, Francis starred on the Canadian National men's team and for several seasons in Europe. As a coach, Francis spent the past two seasons as head man at Canada's NEDA program at McMaster and this summer led Canada at the FIBA U19 World Championships in New Zealand. His ties to Edmonton and the University stem from his mentor growing up in Toronto: former Golden Bear Willie Delas (Toronto Humberside), who is believed to be the last Torontonian to play for Alberta (early 80's, pre-Horwood era when Brian Heaney was Head Coach) and Delas has already spoke glowingly about his alma mater, making the transition for Francis even more comfortable.
For Francis first season at the helm, the Bears return 5 players from last season's Canada West Mountain Division finalist and the remainder of the roster is dotted with high-potential athletes that Francis was able to attract to Alberta since being named Head Coach this past February.
Given the value of a solid, veteran point guard, especially on a young, transitioning team, the return of 5'11" Scott Leigh, in his third year with the Bears after spending his first post-secondary season in the B.C. colleges league, is key. Leigh is more of a natural 2 who can shoot it but has developed into a nice lead guard and expect him to have the ball in his hands alot early in the season especially. Another key returnee is 6'5" Harvey Bradford, tough as nails as a 3/4 who became effective as a high/low post under Horwood after playing wing in high school and is expected to fit into the rotation.
Three more from Coach Horwood's final team should also work their way into meaningful minutes starting with 6'3" second year Sahr Saffa, a slasher/scorer who will play the wing. 6'2" Matthew Cardozza, an undersized but extremely athletic 3/4 with big ups who can defend and has already fashioned an elite track career will be looked upon to guard top wings, also returns. In a late development, 6'9" Jeff Stork, a fifth-year center again in the traditional Bear post mould, will re-join the roster and add depth at the five spot.
Francis was able to bring in several Alberta high school stars in his first-ever class, starting with prized recruit 6'7" Jordan Baker, a very versatile skill-packed guard/forward from Edmonton Harry Ainlay and Canada's U19 team, who should be impactful from the beginning. Baker can play multiple positions from point to post and can be best described as a point forward (much like Carleton used All-Canadian Aaron Doornekamp during his career) making key decisions and knocking shots down from the perimeter. Baker is still young and continues to mature physically and even grow length-wise. He also comes from strong basketball pedigree as both parents were All-Canadians.
Francis scored a major coup over provincial rivals Lethbridge Pronghorns among others in securing the services of 6'5" swingman Todd Bergen-Henengouwen from Picture Butte, AB, who was part of last summer's Alberta Provincial team championship team. Bergen-Henenegouwen is a strong, tough kid who has primarily played the 4 spot however Francis feels he has the skills to move him to the wing. Finally in 6'2" guard Ken Otieno (Lethbridge, AB/Sir Winston Churchill), Bears obtain another young, emerging athletic talent. The athletic Otieno, originally from Kenya, has big upside as a wing/guard.
Another prized high school recruit comes in 6'11" Rob Dewar, from Guelph, ON who spent last season with Francis at NEDA. Complementing returning posts Bradford and Stork, Dewar is more of a FIBA-type big man with excellent perimeter skills and depth on his jumper. Not a typical banging hi/low post player currently, Dewar has a lean physic and as he gets stronger should augment his perimeter game. Bears will look to incorporate his special skill set almost immediately. Complementing Dewar perfectly is 6'9" Nikola Manojlovic (Hamilton, ON/Orchard Park), a 235 lbs. big bodied banger with significant raw potential destined to develop into a solid, more traditional CIS post player at the 5 spot.
To help bridge the roster between the stable of young recruits directly out of high school and the returning upper classmen vets, Francis dipped into the Alberta college ranks for three more newcomers, led by 6'7" Jamaal Bucknor, a transfer from Concordia College (12.9 ppg in '08-'09) where he played the last 2 seasons and brother of Canadian National team star Jermaine Bucknor. Jamaal, in contrast to his brother, is more of a physical four man who works in and around the paint. 6'1" Khas Tokar (transfer/Grand Prairie College) will bring depth to the backcourt as a combo guard. Tokar was a big time scorer in the Alberta college league, leading the province in scoring at 21.5 ppg. In 6'2" Jordan Hone, the Bears get another very good combo guard from Mount Royal College, where he averaged 11.8 ppg in 2008-09 and was named MVP at CCAA nationals last season. Another Concordia College guard, 6'2" Brett Kallio, also a member of last summer's Alberta provincial team, was expected to join the Golden Bears this season but will return to Concordia for his second year there and will work on his point guard skills with the expectation of joining the Bears next season.
With at least 7 new faces on the roster and no real stars returning, Francis' first season at Alberta will require finding roles for everyone and a keener sense of how his rotation will evolve. Alberta under Horwood was traditionally a high/low offensive team with solid posts and Francis would like to also play more up tempo when possible. There is young and experienced talent in place to play both ways as situations dictate. Regardless, it appears that Francis has already started putting together a foundation of a solid winning program.
Alberta has put together a competitive non-conference schedule highlighted by a Thanksgiving weekend trip to Francis' former stomping grounds of Southern Ontario when Alberta will take on the Varsity Blues in Toronto (Friday), McMaster on the Saturday night and Ryerson back in Toronto on Sunday afternoon. Later, Alberta will participate in the Guy Vetrie tournament at UVic during which they will meet defending national champions Carleton Ravens among others. Another pre-season highlight is Alberta's trip to Spokane, WA to meet NCAA Division 1 Gonzaga on Nov. 2nd, kicking off the Bulldogs exhibition season.
As a player, Francis was a star at famed Oakwood Collegiate in Toronto, carrying on a decades-long winning tradition at that program by leading the Barons to an Ontario championship. Francis then culminated a four year career at NCAA Division 1 Fairfield with a historic 30+ point game against North Carolina Tar Heels in the first round of the NCAA tournament in his graduating year. Later, Francis starred on the Canadian National men's team and for several seasons in Europe. As a coach, Francis spent the past two seasons as head man at Canada's NEDA program at McMaster and this summer led Canada at the FIBA U19 World Championships in New Zealand. His ties to Edmonton and the University stem from his mentor growing up in Toronto: former Golden Bear Willie Delas (Toronto Humberside), who is believed to be the last Torontonian to play for Alberta (early 80's, pre-Horwood era when Brian Heaney was Head Coach) and Delas has already spoke glowingly about his alma mater, making the transition for Francis even more comfortable.
For Francis first season at the helm, the Bears return 5 players from last season's Canada West Mountain Division finalist and the remainder of the roster is dotted with high-potential athletes that Francis was able to attract to Alberta since being named Head Coach this past February.
Given the value of a solid, veteran point guard, especially on a young, transitioning team, the return of 5'11" Scott Leigh, in his third year with the Bears after spending his first post-secondary season in the B.C. colleges league, is key. Leigh is more of a natural 2 who can shoot it but has developed into a nice lead guard and expect him to have the ball in his hands alot early in the season especially. Another key returnee is 6'5" Harvey Bradford, tough as nails as a 3/4 who became effective as a high/low post under Horwood after playing wing in high school and is expected to fit into the rotation.
Three more from Coach Horwood's final team should also work their way into meaningful minutes starting with 6'3" second year Sahr Saffa, a slasher/scorer who will play the wing. 6'2" Matthew Cardozza, an undersized but extremely athletic 3/4 with big ups who can defend and has already fashioned an elite track career will be looked upon to guard top wings, also returns. In a late development, 6'9" Jeff Stork, a fifth-year center again in the traditional Bear post mould, will re-join the roster and add depth at the five spot.
Francis was able to bring in several Alberta high school stars in his first-ever class, starting with prized recruit 6'7" Jordan Baker, a very versatile skill-packed guard/forward from Edmonton Harry Ainlay and Canada's U19 team, who should be impactful from the beginning. Baker can play multiple positions from point to post and can be best described as a point forward (much like Carleton used All-Canadian Aaron Doornekamp during his career) making key decisions and knocking shots down from the perimeter. Baker is still young and continues to mature physically and even grow length-wise. He also comes from strong basketball pedigree as both parents were All-Canadians.
Francis scored a major coup over provincial rivals Lethbridge Pronghorns among others in securing the services of 6'5" swingman Todd Bergen-Henengouwen from Picture Butte, AB, who was part of last summer's Alberta Provincial team championship team. Bergen-Henenegouwen is a strong, tough kid who has primarily played the 4 spot however Francis feels he has the skills to move him to the wing. Finally in 6'2" guard Ken Otieno (Lethbridge, AB/Sir Winston Churchill), Bears obtain another young, emerging athletic talent. The athletic Otieno, originally from Kenya, has big upside as a wing/guard.
Another prized high school recruit comes in 6'11" Rob Dewar, from Guelph, ON who spent last season with Francis at NEDA. Complementing returning posts Bradford and Stork, Dewar is more of a FIBA-type big man with excellent perimeter skills and depth on his jumper. Not a typical banging hi/low post player currently, Dewar has a lean physic and as he gets stronger should augment his perimeter game. Bears will look to incorporate his special skill set almost immediately. Complementing Dewar perfectly is 6'9" Nikola Manojlovic (Hamilton, ON/Orchard Park), a 235 lbs. big bodied banger with significant raw potential destined to develop into a solid, more traditional CIS post player at the 5 spot.
To help bridge the roster between the stable of young recruits directly out of high school and the returning upper classmen vets, Francis dipped into the Alberta college ranks for three more newcomers, led by 6'7" Jamaal Bucknor, a transfer from Concordia College (12.9 ppg in '08-'09) where he played the last 2 seasons and brother of Canadian National team star Jermaine Bucknor. Jamaal, in contrast to his brother, is more of a physical four man who works in and around the paint. 6'1" Khas Tokar (transfer/Grand Prairie College) will bring depth to the backcourt as a combo guard. Tokar was a big time scorer in the Alberta college league, leading the province in scoring at 21.5 ppg. In 6'2" Jordan Hone, the Bears get another very good combo guard from Mount Royal College, where he averaged 11.8 ppg in 2008-09 and was named MVP at CCAA nationals last season. Another Concordia College guard, 6'2" Brett Kallio, also a member of last summer's Alberta provincial team, was expected to join the Golden Bears this season but will return to Concordia for his second year there and will work on his point guard skills with the expectation of joining the Bears next season.
With at least 7 new faces on the roster and no real stars returning, Francis' first season at Alberta will require finding roles for everyone and a keener sense of how his rotation will evolve. Alberta under Horwood was traditionally a high/low offensive team with solid posts and Francis would like to also play more up tempo when possible. There is young and experienced talent in place to play both ways as situations dictate. Regardless, it appears that Francis has already started putting together a foundation of a solid winning program.
Alberta has put together a competitive non-conference schedule highlighted by a Thanksgiving weekend trip to Francis' former stomping grounds of Southern Ontario when Alberta will take on the Varsity Blues in Toronto (Friday), McMaster on the Saturday night and Ryerson back in Toronto on Sunday afternoon. Later, Alberta will participate in the Guy Vetrie tournament at UVic during which they will meet defending national champions Carleton Ravens among others. Another pre-season highlight is Alberta's trip to Spokane, WA to meet NCAA Division 1 Gonzaga on Nov. 2nd, kicking off the Bulldogs exhibition season.
Rams hand reigns to local coach
Thanks to Neate Sager from CIS Blog for passing along this link to the Ryerson Eyeopener campus newspaper providing a comprehensive set of comments from new Ryerson mentor Roy Rana.
Rams hand reigns to local coach
Written by Anthony Lopopolo
Roy Rana decided he's finished with leading a perennial winner to the top of the high school circuit. Yet he hopes to feel the same way once he's done his duty as head coach of Ryerson's men's basketball team.
"He has a proven record of success, and there's a general community buzz about him being picked," said Ivan Joseph, Ryerson's director of athletics.
Recognized for his nine-year stint with Eastern Commerce Collegiate Institute in which he captured five OFSAA championships, Rana is not one to settle for mediocrity.
He's forged a close relationship with Canada's national team and was recently instrumental in leading the Cadet Men's National team to qualification in the 2010 U-17 world championship. But for Joseph, it's Rana's connection to the community that made him the most appealing candidate.
"I heard from the Toronto District School Board, ‘The town is so excited Ryerson finally did this. They didn't bring in an outside guy; they brought in one of their own.' To me, that's important," Joseph said. "We're the city's university."
He also mentioned that Rana has the background and credibility to entice players across Canada and salvage the team's perception of being a one-man show.
"People wouldn't come to Ryerson basketball. Why? We had a reputation of being a joke. We had a reputation of not practicing four days a week. So now, Roy comes in and says, ‘We're changing that.'"
And Rana has latched on to that sentiment, saying that he's ready to launch this program to the height of top teams in the OUA.
"The first step is to try to improve and develop a culture of winning here," said Rana. "Many of those expectations will be based on the approach that we take not only on the court, but off the court."
"I think all of that is in the details, and as long as we have a very committed group of guys who are willing to increase the level of effort in all aspects of the program, we're going to be successful."
While he's mindful that no major enhancements can be realized within the first year of his tenure, Rana is steadfast in his ambition to compete on a year-to-year basis.
Despite the Rams' 71-69 playoff loss to York last season, he noticed the makings of that change in mentality.
"I think a two-point deficit in a loss is not a devastating loss because it implies you're better than that," said Rana.
"For a team that hadn't been to the playoffs in many, many years, I think we have to appreciate the fact that they did something special getting to a playoff game."
Boris Bakovic, the Rams all-star forward, is also beginning to warm up to his new coach.
"He's very clear with his communication, was well-received by the guys. And he's our coach now, so we're beginning to feel each other out," he said.
Rana is filling the coaching void left by Glenn Taylor, who was fired last season under undisclosed terms.
Rams hand reigns to local coach
Written by Anthony Lopopolo
Roy Rana decided he's finished with leading a perennial winner to the top of the high school circuit. Yet he hopes to feel the same way once he's done his duty as head coach of Ryerson's men's basketball team.
"He has a proven record of success, and there's a general community buzz about him being picked," said Ivan Joseph, Ryerson's director of athletics.
Recognized for his nine-year stint with Eastern Commerce Collegiate Institute in which he captured five OFSAA championships, Rana is not one to settle for mediocrity.
He's forged a close relationship with Canada's national team and was recently instrumental in leading the Cadet Men's National team to qualification in the 2010 U-17 world championship. But for Joseph, it's Rana's connection to the community that made him the most appealing candidate.
"I heard from the Toronto District School Board, ‘The town is so excited Ryerson finally did this. They didn't bring in an outside guy; they brought in one of their own.' To me, that's important," Joseph said. "We're the city's university."
He also mentioned that Rana has the background and credibility to entice players across Canada and salvage the team's perception of being a one-man show.
"People wouldn't come to Ryerson basketball. Why? We had a reputation of being a joke. We had a reputation of not practicing four days a week. So now, Roy comes in and says, ‘We're changing that.'"
And Rana has latched on to that sentiment, saying that he's ready to launch this program to the height of top teams in the OUA.
"The first step is to try to improve and develop a culture of winning here," said Rana. "Many of those expectations will be based on the approach that we take not only on the court, but off the court."
"I think all of that is in the details, and as long as we have a very committed group of guys who are willing to increase the level of effort in all aspects of the program, we're going to be successful."
While he's mindful that no major enhancements can be realized within the first year of his tenure, Rana is steadfast in his ambition to compete on a year-to-year basis.
Despite the Rams' 71-69 playoff loss to York last season, he noticed the makings of that change in mentality.
"I think a two-point deficit in a loss is not a devastating loss because it implies you're better than that," said Rana.
"For a team that hadn't been to the playoffs in many, many years, I think we have to appreciate the fact that they did something special getting to a playoff game."
Boris Bakovic, the Rams all-star forward, is also beginning to warm up to his new coach.
"He's very clear with his communication, was well-received by the guys. And he's our coach now, so we're beginning to feel each other out," he said.
Rana is filling the coaching void left by Glenn Taylor, who was fired last season under undisclosed terms.
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
Sad News
Very sad news on the passing of Carolyn Sturgess (Swords), former Laurentian star originally from Ottawa. On behalf of the entire basketball community, we offer our deepest sympathies to Martin, Shawn and the entire Swords family.
LAURENTIAN ATHLETICS AND LADY VEES BASKETBALL COMMUNITY LOSES FAMILY MEMBER
VIKING, Alta. It is with a heavy heart that the Laurentian University Athletic Department announces the passing of former Lady Vees basketball standout Carolyn Sturgess (Swords). Sturgess, also a member of the Alumni Voyageur Hall of Fame (2008) had been living in Viking, Alberta with her husband Kelly and two sons Mason and Matthew.
Sturgess lost a long and courageous battle to breast cancer; she was 39-years old. As recent as August, she participated in Edmonton’s Weekend to End Breast Cancer, which included a 60-kilometer walk. Sturgess, along with her team of 13 completed the walk and raised $32,000.
She won two CIAU national championships (1989-90 and 1990-91) as well as two CIAU bronze medals (1991-92 and 1992-93) while at Laurentian. The Lady Vees also won four straight OWIAA championships and an OWIAA silver medal while Sturgess was a member from 1989 to 1994.
Individually, Sturgess was a perennial all-star. She was named an OWIAA all-star in 1992-93 and 1993-94, an OWIAA final four all-star in 1990-91 and OWIAA tournament most valuable player in her rookie season of 1989-90.
As impressive as Sturgess was on the basketball court, she stood out even more in the classroom. She was a five-time academic all-Canadian while completing her Bachelor of Engineering degree. She was also a Canadian Scholar and a member of the Dean’s Honour List. She was named a Commonwealth Scholarship winner, which allowed her to complete her Doctor of Philosophy at Leeds University in England.
Sturgess was a member of the Ontario provincial team from 1985 to 1989 prior to becoming a member of the Lady Vees.
Internationally, she competed at the 1994 FISU games for Canada and 1997 FISU games for British national team while completing her doctorate.
Sturgess was inducted to the Alumni Voyageur Hall of Fame in 2008, alongside current Voyageurs basketball head coach, and brother, Shawn Swords.
"Carolyn truly epitomized the Laurentian experience, excelling both athletically and academically," said Athletic Director Peter Hellstrom. "She was a true leader to her teammates and classmates and is an example for students at Laurentian to follow. She will be sorely missed."
Final arrangements are not yet finalized.
LAURENTIAN ATHLETICS AND LADY VEES BASKETBALL COMMUNITY LOSES FAMILY MEMBER
VIKING, Alta. It is with a heavy heart that the Laurentian University Athletic Department announces the passing of former Lady Vees basketball standout Carolyn Sturgess (Swords). Sturgess, also a member of the Alumni Voyageur Hall of Fame (2008) had been living in Viking, Alberta with her husband Kelly and two sons Mason and Matthew.
Sturgess lost a long and courageous battle to breast cancer; she was 39-years old. As recent as August, she participated in Edmonton’s Weekend to End Breast Cancer, which included a 60-kilometer walk. Sturgess, along with her team of 13 completed the walk and raised $32,000.
She won two CIAU national championships (1989-90 and 1990-91) as well as two CIAU bronze medals (1991-92 and 1992-93) while at Laurentian. The Lady Vees also won four straight OWIAA championships and an OWIAA silver medal while Sturgess was a member from 1989 to 1994.
Individually, Sturgess was a perennial all-star. She was named an OWIAA all-star in 1992-93 and 1993-94, an OWIAA final four all-star in 1990-91 and OWIAA tournament most valuable player in her rookie season of 1989-90.
As impressive as Sturgess was on the basketball court, she stood out even more in the classroom. She was a five-time academic all-Canadian while completing her Bachelor of Engineering degree. She was also a Canadian Scholar and a member of the Dean’s Honour List. She was named a Commonwealth Scholarship winner, which allowed her to complete her Doctor of Philosophy at Leeds University in England.
Sturgess was a member of the Ontario provincial team from 1985 to 1989 prior to becoming a member of the Lady Vees.
Internationally, she competed at the 1994 FISU games for Canada and 1997 FISU games for British national team while completing her doctorate.
Sturgess was inducted to the Alumni Voyageur Hall of Fame in 2008, alongside current Voyageurs basketball head coach, and brother, Shawn Swords.
"Carolyn truly epitomized the Laurentian experience, excelling both athletically and academically," said Athletic Director Peter Hellstrom. "She was a true leader to her teammates and classmates and is an example for students at Laurentian to follow. She will be sorely missed."
Final arrangements are not yet finalized.
Roster turn around continues for Baker, growing Varsity Reds
Head Coach Brent Baker begins his second season at UNB with the Varsity Reds and their slick new logo, continuing the roster transformation he began after taking the reigns in April, 2008. Although Baker had little time to recruit for last season, UNB did get a pair of freshmen who played major minutes last season so their is young talent in the program. Baker's first full recruiting class this season brings another three or four rotation-ready players including a potential program changer down the road as UNB looks to push back into the playoff picture in the AUS.
In Baker, UNB has a veteran of Atlantic Canada basketball and a former Canadian national team player. Just prior to joining the Reds, Baker led the St. FX women’s team for two years and also had worked with legendary X head man Steve Konchalski as an assistant for X's men's team, playing a key role in X's march to the 2005-06 AUS championship title and CIS national semi-finals.
The Reds finished last season at 3-17 in the AUS and afer starting 0-9, UNB generated some momentum from winning their first league game on the road at Acadia followed by a win over Memorial that stoked some optimism. Unfortunately, Reds top big man 6'6" Colton Wilson was injured in the second game against MUN (a loss) and, although Wilson only missed one game, the Reds could not recover, finishing the season losing nine of their last 10.
The veteran forward Wilson, entering his 4th season after averaging just under 13 ppg last season, is one of five Reds who Coach Baker leaned on for major minutes especially down the stretch. Wilson is Reds best back-to-the-basket post threat and can also step outside to knock down 3's. 6'0" shooting guard Dustin Anthony (North Bay, ON) who averaged 12 ppg as a freshman, is the Reds chief returning threat from downtown, however Anthony will be sidelined until at least November 1st while on academic probation. The other jewel recruit from last season was 6'0" Antwann Parks, a native of Queen's, NY, who learned by fire getting the bulk of the minutes at the point as a freshman in the AUS. 6'3" Michael Anderson, entering his 5th season, led the team in scoring at 14.5 ppg while 6'4" Alex DesRoches enters his third season with two seasons of battle-tested experience as an undersize post and works hard on the glass (second in AUS in offensive rebounds last season). 6'7" Lonzell Lowe from Brampton, ON, a freshman last season, will not be back nor will 6'0" Adam Creaghan.
Baker had a solid first full-year recruiting class this season beginning with plucking a potential high impact recruit from downtown Toronto in 6'3" guard Gamachu Ibrahim from Central Commerce, for who there are several YouTube highlight packages available. The slender guard/wing will look to play off rising sophomore point guard Parks in what is developing into an athletic backcourt and his game should develop even further as he is able to add muscle to his currently-lean frame. Adding more depth to the guard spot is solid 6'0" Patrick Kalala, a transfer from Loyalist College in Belleville, ON, who brings experience and is solid across many areas including taking care of the ball, defending and finding people. Kalala was a teammate of Ibrahim at Central Commerce in high school before spending one season at Loyalist where he averaged 10 ppg.
Continuing his recruiting success in Ontario, Baker also brought in a quality high school big man in versatile 6'6" Colin Adams, who averaged 20 ppg/10 rpg at Peterborough (ON) Collegiate last season. Adams, an honours student with a strong work ethic, has already shown he can knock down perimter jumpers and given the Reds need for size, should work into the rotation almost immediately. 6'8" Mattias Zankpe from traditional southwestern Ontario power Sarnia Northern, a program which traditionally plays a very competitive tournament schedule, adds size and a 6'10" wing span. Expect Zankpe to develop like many initially-raw CIS bigs, honing his physical skills before becoming productive toward the middle and latter parts of his career.
Baker certainly did not ignore New Brunswick as he was also able to keep one of the best pure shooters in the province at home with the commitment of 6'1" Dan Quirion of Moncton, who has range beyond the three point line and had a 48 point game in a club tournament championship game this past season. Quirion held his own against touted Acadia recruit Anthony Sears in three games this past season and Baker expects Quirion to possibly push for a starting spot.
Waiting in the wings is home-town point guard 5'11" Andy Wright, a sure fire rotation player at the lead guard spots who will be eligible on December 1st after transfering from Bishop's. Wright is the perfect complement to Parks at the point, a pass-first, shoot-second point guard with great skills and decision-making prowess.
The Reds remain a very young work-in-progress, especially given their comparative lack of size, however it appears that Baker is patiently putting together the building blocks for a group that will remain together for several seasons and mature into a very good team. Qualifying for the playoffs this season remains a challenge however expect UNB to be much more competitive and add to their win total from a season ago.
In the pre-season, UNB will host their annual Eric Garland Tournament during the Thanksgiving Day weekend (UNB, St. FX, UQAM and Lee Academy from Maine) and also visit Antigonish for the annual St. FX Invitational. Later, the Reds visit Ontario to play in Kingston against both Queen's and RMC.
In Baker, UNB has a veteran of Atlantic Canada basketball and a former Canadian national team player. Just prior to joining the Reds, Baker led the St. FX women’s team for two years and also had worked with legendary X head man Steve Konchalski as an assistant for X's men's team, playing a key role in X's march to the 2005-06 AUS championship title and CIS national semi-finals.
The Reds finished last season at 3-17 in the AUS and afer starting 0-9, UNB generated some momentum from winning their first league game on the road at Acadia followed by a win over Memorial that stoked some optimism. Unfortunately, Reds top big man 6'6" Colton Wilson was injured in the second game against MUN (a loss) and, although Wilson only missed one game, the Reds could not recover, finishing the season losing nine of their last 10.
The veteran forward Wilson, entering his 4th season after averaging just under 13 ppg last season, is one of five Reds who Coach Baker leaned on for major minutes especially down the stretch. Wilson is Reds best back-to-the-basket post threat and can also step outside to knock down 3's. 6'0" shooting guard Dustin Anthony (North Bay, ON) who averaged 12 ppg as a freshman, is the Reds chief returning threat from downtown, however Anthony will be sidelined until at least November 1st while on academic probation. The other jewel recruit from last season was 6'0" Antwann Parks, a native of Queen's, NY, who learned by fire getting the bulk of the minutes at the point as a freshman in the AUS. 6'3" Michael Anderson, entering his 5th season, led the team in scoring at 14.5 ppg while 6'4" Alex DesRoches enters his third season with two seasons of battle-tested experience as an undersize post and works hard on the glass (second in AUS in offensive rebounds last season). 6'7" Lonzell Lowe from Brampton, ON, a freshman last season, will not be back nor will 6'0" Adam Creaghan.
Baker had a solid first full-year recruiting class this season beginning with plucking a potential high impact recruit from downtown Toronto in 6'3" guard Gamachu Ibrahim from Central Commerce, for who there are several YouTube highlight packages available. The slender guard/wing will look to play off rising sophomore point guard Parks in what is developing into an athletic backcourt and his game should develop even further as he is able to add muscle to his currently-lean frame. Adding more depth to the guard spot is solid 6'0" Patrick Kalala, a transfer from Loyalist College in Belleville, ON, who brings experience and is solid across many areas including taking care of the ball, defending and finding people. Kalala was a teammate of Ibrahim at Central Commerce in high school before spending one season at Loyalist where he averaged 10 ppg.
Continuing his recruiting success in Ontario, Baker also brought in a quality high school big man in versatile 6'6" Colin Adams, who averaged 20 ppg/10 rpg at Peterborough (ON) Collegiate last season. Adams, an honours student with a strong work ethic, has already shown he can knock down perimter jumpers and given the Reds need for size, should work into the rotation almost immediately. 6'8" Mattias Zankpe from traditional southwestern Ontario power Sarnia Northern, a program which traditionally plays a very competitive tournament schedule, adds size and a 6'10" wing span. Expect Zankpe to develop like many initially-raw CIS bigs, honing his physical skills before becoming productive toward the middle and latter parts of his career.
Baker certainly did not ignore New Brunswick as he was also able to keep one of the best pure shooters in the province at home with the commitment of 6'1" Dan Quirion of Moncton, who has range beyond the three point line and had a 48 point game in a club tournament championship game this past season. Quirion held his own against touted Acadia recruit Anthony Sears in three games this past season and Baker expects Quirion to possibly push for a starting spot.
Waiting in the wings is home-town point guard 5'11" Andy Wright, a sure fire rotation player at the lead guard spots who will be eligible on December 1st after transfering from Bishop's. Wright is the perfect complement to Parks at the point, a pass-first, shoot-second point guard with great skills and decision-making prowess.
The Reds remain a very young work-in-progress, especially given their comparative lack of size, however it appears that Baker is patiently putting together the building blocks for a group that will remain together for several seasons and mature into a very good team. Qualifying for the playoffs this season remains a challenge however expect UNB to be much more competitive and add to their win total from a season ago.
In the pre-season, UNB will host their annual Eric Garland Tournament during the Thanksgiving Day weekend (UNB, St. FX, UQAM and Lee Academy from Maine) and also visit Antigonish for the annual St. FX Invitational. Later, the Reds visit Ontario to play in Kingston against both Queen's and RMC.
Monday, 14 September 2009
Acadia adds to impressive class with pair of recruits
The Axemen already have landed several high-quality recruits in 6'6" Owen Klassen, a power forward from Kingston, ON; 6'4" combination guard Anthony Sears, who scored over 1,100 points as a New Brunswick high school senior (~30 ppg) and a hidden gem in 6'5" French import Jonathan Kamba. And with 6'3" Casey Fox and 6'5" Justin Boutilier, the Axemen have two sophomores who could push for all-AUS status in the coming seasons.
Acadia now features a growing stable of youthful potential stars and with his two latest recruits Coach Steve Baur augments his younger group with a pair of experienced veterans in Andre Grant, a 5th year transfer from Memorial who began his career here at Acadia (8.3 ppg in 2003-04) and last played in 2005-06 when he averaged 13 ppg for the Seahawks plus Tyler Lutton, a 3rd year guard from Douglas College, who ran the point for Douglas two seasons ago when they won the CCAA national championship.
Acadia will participate in the Naismith tournament Oct17-19 @ Waterloo and then will host York and RMC later in October. The remainder of the Axemen pre-season will consist of games against Atlantic college teams. Acadia is seeking to return to the AUS playoffs after missing the post-season in 2008-09.
Acadia now features a growing stable of youthful potential stars and with his two latest recruits Coach Steve Baur augments his younger group with a pair of experienced veterans in Andre Grant, a 5th year transfer from Memorial who began his career here at Acadia (8.3 ppg in 2003-04) and last played in 2005-06 when he averaged 13 ppg for the Seahawks plus Tyler Lutton, a 3rd year guard from Douglas College, who ran the point for Douglas two seasons ago when they won the CCAA national championship.
Acadia will participate in the Naismith tournament Oct17-19 @ Waterloo and then will host York and RMC later in October. The remainder of the Axemen pre-season will consist of games against Atlantic college teams. Acadia is seeking to return to the AUS playoffs after missing the post-season in 2008-09.
Canada West places Simon Fraser on probation
With this announcement, Simon Fraser officially will not be able to vote in conference matters, a logical and seemingly-expected step to take for Canada West for a member that has already made plans to leave the conference. Simon Fraser will still be allowed to vote for player and coach recognition. The Clan plans to enter NCAA Division 2 beginning with the 2011-12 academic year so they have 2 more seasons remaining in Canada West/CIS.
2009-10 CWUAA Media Release: Simon Fraser athletics placed on probation
EDMONTON - The Canada West University Athletics Association (CWUAA) announced today that Simon Fraser University’s membership has been re-categorized to that of full member with probationary status for the 2009-10 athletics season.
In July Simon Fraser was given conditional acceptance and expressed their intent to join the NCAA beginning in the 2011-12 season. The Canada West Board of Directors, acting on the advisement of its membership, took action to begin the transition of Simon Fraser from the CWUAA. The CWUAA membership and Simon Fraser consented to the re-categorization of SFU for the 2009-10 season. A decision regarding Simon Fraser's 2010-11 Canada West membership has been deferred until later this year.
Probationary status means Simon Fraser will not be eligible to vote in conference matters. The move does not affect Simon Fraser's ability to fully compete in the 2009-10 season, including post-season play and coach and athlete recognition.
Simon Fraser joined the Canada West in 2001 and competes in football, men's and women's basketball, women's volleyball and wrestling. Simon Fraser has also maintained membership in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
Please direct questions to the Canada West office: sportsinfo@canadawest.org. Contact information for all conference schools and the League office can be found on the www.canadawest.org “Members” and “Contact Us” web pages.
2009-10 CWUAA Media Release: Simon Fraser athletics placed on probation
EDMONTON - The Canada West University Athletics Association (CWUAA) announced today that Simon Fraser University’s membership has been re-categorized to that of full member with probationary status for the 2009-10 athletics season.
In July Simon Fraser was given conditional acceptance and expressed their intent to join the NCAA beginning in the 2011-12 season. The Canada West Board of Directors, acting on the advisement of its membership, took action to begin the transition of Simon Fraser from the CWUAA. The CWUAA membership and Simon Fraser consented to the re-categorization of SFU for the 2009-10 season. A decision regarding Simon Fraser's 2010-11 Canada West membership has been deferred until later this year.
Probationary status means Simon Fraser will not be eligible to vote in conference matters. The move does not affect Simon Fraser's ability to fully compete in the 2009-10 season, including post-season play and coach and athlete recognition.
Simon Fraser joined the Canada West in 2001 and competes in football, men's and women's basketball, women's volleyball and wrestling. Simon Fraser has also maintained membership in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
Please direct questions to the Canada West office: sportsinfo@canadawest.org. Contact information for all conference schools and the League office can be found on the www.canadawest.org “Members” and “Contact Us” web pages.
Depth, maturing stars lead Laval
The transition from father to son appears to be going smoothly and les Rouge et Or hope to return to the top of the "Q" after last season's upset loss to UQAM, ending a string of eight consecutive appearances in the Quebec league championship game, including 5 titles. Coach Jacques Paiement Jr., who officially took over from his father on May 1st of this year after holding the interim tag through last season, starts his second season with a solid core of veterans that includes an emerging Moser candidate plus another top recruiting class from the growing basketball talent base in Quebec.
In 6'3" J.F. Beaulieu-Mahieux, Laval has a top flight wing who can create his own shot and has range beyond the three point line, with one of the more fundamentally-sound, legitimate jump shots off the dribble in the entire CIS. A former CIS Rookie-of-the-Year now entering his fourth season, les Rouge et Or are now fully Beaulieu-Mahieux's team as he enters his senior seasons. A pair of highly-touted third year combo forwards: 6'4" Jerome Turcotte, a former CEGEP POY and 6'5" Etienne Labrecque, who tried one season at NCAA D1 Quinnipiac before transfering home, set up Laval very well on the perimeter both offensively and defensively. Both can stretch defenses, get on the glass and, when right, are all-league talents. Labrecque suffered a dislocated finger in August against Towson State but should be ready for the start of the exhibition season.
Setting the table for Laval's nice array of scorers is 5'8" point guard Xavier Baribeau, also entering his third season. Baribeau is a solid decision maker in transition and shoots the ball well beyond the arc. His ability to guard the ball in Laval's tough ball pressure "d" will determine how well this group stops teams. Backing up Baribeau are pair of freshmen recruits from CEGEP, 5'8" J.P. Renaud (Sainte-Foy), 1st team CEGEP selection last season and 5'10" Richard Addai (Vanier). Expect the two freshmen to be eased in to the lineup as Baribeau has handled high (35+) minute loads successfully thus far in his career.
Up front, Laval features underrated 6'5" post F.O. Gagnon-Hebert, who works very hard at both ends, runs the floor well, gets solid position and generally makes up for his comparative lack of size and athleticism with strong fundamentals and foot work. Coming off the bench is last season's discovery 6'2" Christian Deslauriers-Trottier, a solid sixth man who brings a bit of everything to the 2/3 spots; Deslauriers-Trottier played at the same high school as Laval's graduated All-Canadian J.P. Morin, who incidentally is completing his M.B.A. at Laval.
Adding depth at the forward spots are a pair of fourth-year vets in 6'8" post Maxime Cloutier and 6'6" Yves Andre Levasseur who can also slide back and play the 3 spot when necessary. 6'7" freshman Simon Mercier (Ste. Foy) will also be in the mix at the 4 spot, initially adding a strong ability to defend and rebound. Also, 6'9" Kevin Crevant, a French import who arrived at Laval last season amid some optimism, finally showed signs last season of developing into a serviceable CIS post player and Laval hopes his progress continues.
There is a solid core of at least four very high calibre CIS players in Beaulieu-Mahieux, Labrecque, Turcotte and Baribeau that last season probably had to play more minutes than the staff may have liked. With the added depth and the maturity of the first four plus Gagnon-Hebert and Deslauriers-Trottier, Laval should be able to play at a higher tempo for longer periods of time. Expect Rouge et Or to be in the middle of the battle for the Quebec league championship.
With several projected Top 10 teams on the pre-season slate, clearly Coach Paiement is ducking no one in prepping his program for league play. In addition to hosting their own tournament which has arguably the strongest field of any pre-season tournament with Calgary, Dalhousie and Western, Laval takes a trip out west to play four games against UBC, Simon Fraser, Trinity Western and Fraser Valley plus a game in Gatineau against Ottawa. Laval also travels to the University of Maine on November 1st to play in the Black Bears first exhibition game of the season.
In 6'3" J.F. Beaulieu-Mahieux, Laval has a top flight wing who can create his own shot and has range beyond the three point line, with one of the more fundamentally-sound, legitimate jump shots off the dribble in the entire CIS. A former CIS Rookie-of-the-Year now entering his fourth season, les Rouge et Or are now fully Beaulieu-Mahieux's team as he enters his senior seasons. A pair of highly-touted third year combo forwards: 6'4" Jerome Turcotte, a former CEGEP POY and 6'5" Etienne Labrecque, who tried one season at NCAA D1 Quinnipiac before transfering home, set up Laval very well on the perimeter both offensively and defensively. Both can stretch defenses, get on the glass and, when right, are all-league talents. Labrecque suffered a dislocated finger in August against Towson State but should be ready for the start of the exhibition season.
Setting the table for Laval's nice array of scorers is 5'8" point guard Xavier Baribeau, also entering his third season. Baribeau is a solid decision maker in transition and shoots the ball well beyond the arc. His ability to guard the ball in Laval's tough ball pressure "d" will determine how well this group stops teams. Backing up Baribeau are pair of freshmen recruits from CEGEP, 5'8" J.P. Renaud (Sainte-Foy), 1st team CEGEP selection last season and 5'10" Richard Addai (Vanier). Expect the two freshmen to be eased in to the lineup as Baribeau has handled high (35+) minute loads successfully thus far in his career.
Up front, Laval features underrated 6'5" post F.O. Gagnon-Hebert, who works very hard at both ends, runs the floor well, gets solid position and generally makes up for his comparative lack of size and athleticism with strong fundamentals and foot work. Coming off the bench is last season's discovery 6'2" Christian Deslauriers-Trottier, a solid sixth man who brings a bit of everything to the 2/3 spots; Deslauriers-Trottier played at the same high school as Laval's graduated All-Canadian J.P. Morin, who incidentally is completing his M.B.A. at Laval.
Adding depth at the forward spots are a pair of fourth-year vets in 6'8" post Maxime Cloutier and 6'6" Yves Andre Levasseur who can also slide back and play the 3 spot when necessary. 6'7" freshman Simon Mercier (Ste. Foy) will also be in the mix at the 4 spot, initially adding a strong ability to defend and rebound. Also, 6'9" Kevin Crevant, a French import who arrived at Laval last season amid some optimism, finally showed signs last season of developing into a serviceable CIS post player and Laval hopes his progress continues.
There is a solid core of at least four very high calibre CIS players in Beaulieu-Mahieux, Labrecque, Turcotte and Baribeau that last season probably had to play more minutes than the staff may have liked. With the added depth and the maturity of the first four plus Gagnon-Hebert and Deslauriers-Trottier, Laval should be able to play at a higher tempo for longer periods of time. Expect Rouge et Or to be in the middle of the battle for the Quebec league championship.
With several projected Top 10 teams on the pre-season slate, clearly Coach Paiement is ducking no one in prepping his program for league play. In addition to hosting their own tournament which has arguably the strongest field of any pre-season tournament with Calgary, Dalhousie and Western, Laval takes a trip out west to play four games against UBC, Simon Fraser, Trinity Western and Fraser Valley plus a game in Gatineau against Ottawa. Laval also travels to the University of Maine on November 1st to play in the Black Bears first exhibition game of the season.
Sunday, 13 September 2009
Sunday Musings
Congratulations to a handful of readers for correctly identifying Kevin Stacom as the player in my profile. Stacom was part of that Providence improbable run to the 1973 Final Four along with Marvin Barners and Ernie DiGregorio, who later thrilled Southern Ontario fans as a slick point guard for the Buffalo Braves, garnering NBA Rookie-of-the-Year in 1973-74 season. In association with this latest spot quiz, maybe the most unlikely event ever to take place in the history of cishoops.ca also occured: the stumping of the unstumpable... my good friend and loyal reader Hammer missed Kevin Stacom... I continue function in a state of disbelief and ponder this once-in-a-lifetime happening. For that reason alone, I'll take a break with the quiz for this week (actually I'm short on time)... WESTERN'S TWO NEWEST RECRUITS are both likely to be rotation players from the start: 6'2" Marcus Barnett, an American who played at William and Mary who can shoot it and 6'5" David Harder, originally from Copenhagen Denmark, who played last year at Canada Juco in California and should be in the rotation at the forward spots for the Mustangs. FINALLY, in this abbreviated version of Sunday musings, in the past few days we have received numerous inquiries as to the future of Bol Kong, originally from Sudan who played high school in B.C. and most recently led Douglas College to the CCAA title in 2007-08 but has not played since. As anyone who surfs the Internet for Canadian basketball related topics likely knows, there has been much talk and conjecture about Kong including why he apparently hasn't arrived at Gonzaga as of yet and what his future holds. The Slipper Still Fits, a blog dedicated to Gonzaga University Athletics, has a post dated 12 Sept 09 (yesterday) with the following excerpt related to Kong:
Amen to that.
In a related story, sources in Western Canada tell us that another Sudanese player, 7'2" Riiny Ngot is apparently looking for a spot in the CIS. Ngot played high school basketball at Father Lacombe High School in Calgary before starting a trek of commitments, signings and playing over the past three years in the U.S.: Notre Dame (MA) prep school followed by a commitment to NCAA D1 Stony Brook for which he subsequently did not qualify and then SUNY (State University of New York) Orange County JuCo in 2007-08 season during which photo shown here was taken). Ngot's story of how he came to Canada from his native Sudan is incredible and well worth a read. Here is one wonderful piece on Ngot entitled One man's incredible journey to freedom Thanks again to our tremendous "source" out west who keeps uncovering these gems for Canadian basketball readers.
Regarding Bol Kong, it's 50/50 and that is probably all we will know until the roster is officially released. Apparently the immigration process hit a snag but it is still being worked out. We probably will not have much on him until it is final. Speculation isn't really fair in a situation as delicate as this is. We sincerely hope it all works out for Bol, not just for Gonzaga's sake, but just so the kid can realize his dream.
Amen to that.
In a related story, sources in Western Canada tell us that another Sudanese player, 7'2" Riiny Ngot is apparently looking for a spot in the CIS. Ngot played high school basketball at Father Lacombe High School in Calgary before starting a trek of commitments, signings and playing over the past three years in the U.S.: Notre Dame (MA) prep school followed by a commitment to NCAA D1 Stony Brook for which he subsequently did not qualify and then SUNY (State University of New York) Orange County JuCo in 2007-08 season during which photo shown here was taken). Ngot's story of how he came to Canada from his native Sudan is incredible and well worth a read. Here is one wonderful piece on Ngot entitled One man's incredible journey to freedom Thanks again to our tremendous "source" out west who keeps uncovering these gems for Canadian basketball readers.
Bigger, Deeper Lions poised to revisit contender status
One of the hallmarks of the excellent York Lions/Yeomen teams of earlier this decade was their ability to throw significant size at their opponents, not only at the forward positions but also on the wings. That size allowed bigger players to shoot over guys on the perimeter and defensively, York's zones were long and wide. Over the past two seasons, primarily due to injury and some set backs on the recruiting trail, the program has not maintained the upper echelon status of most of the first 34 years of Coach Bob Bain's career. However, Bain along with assistant coach Tom Oliveri moved to restock their roster with new quality bigs and wings and, as a result, the still-young Lions have the makings of a roster very similar to their Nationals-contender teams of years past.
Everyone from last season's roster returns with the exception of the great Tut Ruach, who leaves York as one of their all-time greats. Ruach, one of those once-in-a-decade players who could carry a team with his scoring and creating abilities, currently waits on some opportunities in Europe. The author of numerous game changing personal offensive runs, Ruach will be remembered by CIS fans as a gamebreaker and a joy to watch when he got going offensively.
Ready to take the mantle as York's next great player is 6'1" David Tyndale, from Ruach's high school Mississauga Father Goetz, who now has the run of this team entering his second season. The OUA East Rookie-of-the-Year is a dynamic combo guard who can break virtually any defender down off the bounce and turned into a legitimate scorer toward the middle and end of his freshman season. Expect any success York has to be tied to Tyndale's ability to score more and get others involved as the main decision maker for the Lions.
York's front line has quickly emerged as imposing led by 6'10" Stefan Haynes, who entered the CIS as a slender, little-known post from Brebeuf College, the high school that Oliveri teaches at. Fast forward to now beginning his fourth year and Haynes has a chance to be regarded among the great big men York has ever had. Haynes has always been an intimadator on the defensive end as the two-time defending CIS shot blocking leader and his offensive package is growing quickly. Like most younger big men, Haynes struggled with fouls earlier in his career, but has matured at both ends and is on track to be one of the top posts in the OUA this season.
Joining Haynes on the front line are a pair of newcomers who should immediately get solid rotation minutes. 6'6" Justin Bell, who spent his freshman season with uOttawa while getting limited time, returns home to the GTA and is stronger with a more mature game after initially finding the transition to CIS basketball somewhat challenging. Bell will see time in the rotation as a combo forward. York's top recruit this season is 6'10" Dejan Kravic from London, ON, who started his career with a double/double against Chattanooga over the Labour Day weekend and is a perfect complement to Haynes and Bell.
The Lions also gained some quality size on the wings with the arrivals of 6'3" Rene-Pier Mathieu from Quebec City via Champlain CEGEP who can stretch defenses with his perimeter shooting and 6'4" freshman Ostap Choliy, a freshman from Burlington. The depth on the wings will create significant competition for playing time and veterans such as 6'6" Vadim Razenberg, 6'6" Chad Bewley and 6'3" Dalton Olinoski will battle for burn along with the newcomers. After a solid freshman season in 2007-08, Olinoski injured his knee, played in only 9 games last season and subsequently had surgery from which he is still recovering.
Support for Tyndale in the backcourt begins with top returning three point shooter 6'2" John Lafontaine, a definite in the rotation who shuttled between the 2 and 3 as a freshman and now should exclusively focus on playing the 2 where he can display his three point shooting abilities and his toughness and strength. The arrival of 5'11" freshman David Boyce, a high IQ point from Hamilton who will likely backup Tyndale at the point allows Lafontaine and two other backcourt returnees: 6'1" Malik Diaz and 6'0" Rieko Ruach to focus on producing on the wing. Diaz got noticeably more comfortable as his freshman season wore on and Ruach, Tut's younger brother, is a strong, physical scoring guard who uses his body to get to the rim - a sharp contrast to how his older brother gets it done.
Virtually the entire roster had to deal with injuries last season and with significantly more depth and the added size, expect York to mould into a solid playoff team by season's end. This remains a very young group with only one player on the roster (Haynes) in his fourth year or higher (no fifth year guys) so the challenge for Bain and Oliveri is to find the correct rotation and roles for a group with much promise.
York's pre-season is highlighted by a trip to Atlantic Canada to play St. Mary's, Acadia and Dalhousie.
Everyone from last season's roster returns with the exception of the great Tut Ruach, who leaves York as one of their all-time greats. Ruach, one of those once-in-a-decade players who could carry a team with his scoring and creating abilities, currently waits on some opportunities in Europe. The author of numerous game changing personal offensive runs, Ruach will be remembered by CIS fans as a gamebreaker and a joy to watch when he got going offensively.
Ready to take the mantle as York's next great player is 6'1" David Tyndale, from Ruach's high school Mississauga Father Goetz, who now has the run of this team entering his second season. The OUA East Rookie-of-the-Year is a dynamic combo guard who can break virtually any defender down off the bounce and turned into a legitimate scorer toward the middle and end of his freshman season. Expect any success York has to be tied to Tyndale's ability to score more and get others involved as the main decision maker for the Lions.
York's front line has quickly emerged as imposing led by 6'10" Stefan Haynes, who entered the CIS as a slender, little-known post from Brebeuf College, the high school that Oliveri teaches at. Fast forward to now beginning his fourth year and Haynes has a chance to be regarded among the great big men York has ever had. Haynes has always been an intimadator on the defensive end as the two-time defending CIS shot blocking leader and his offensive package is growing quickly. Like most younger big men, Haynes struggled with fouls earlier in his career, but has matured at both ends and is on track to be one of the top posts in the OUA this season.
Joining Haynes on the front line are a pair of newcomers who should immediately get solid rotation minutes. 6'6" Justin Bell, who spent his freshman season with uOttawa while getting limited time, returns home to the GTA and is stronger with a more mature game after initially finding the transition to CIS basketball somewhat challenging. Bell will see time in the rotation as a combo forward. York's top recruit this season is 6'10" Dejan Kravic from London, ON, who started his career with a double/double against Chattanooga over the Labour Day weekend and is a perfect complement to Haynes and Bell.
The Lions also gained some quality size on the wings with the arrivals of 6'3" Rene-Pier Mathieu from Quebec City via Champlain CEGEP who can stretch defenses with his perimeter shooting and 6'4" freshman Ostap Choliy, a freshman from Burlington. The depth on the wings will create significant competition for playing time and veterans such as 6'6" Vadim Razenberg, 6'6" Chad Bewley and 6'3" Dalton Olinoski will battle for burn along with the newcomers. After a solid freshman season in 2007-08, Olinoski injured his knee, played in only 9 games last season and subsequently had surgery from which he is still recovering.
Support for Tyndale in the backcourt begins with top returning three point shooter 6'2" John Lafontaine, a definite in the rotation who shuttled between the 2 and 3 as a freshman and now should exclusively focus on playing the 2 where he can display his three point shooting abilities and his toughness and strength. The arrival of 5'11" freshman David Boyce, a high IQ point from Hamilton who will likely backup Tyndale at the point allows Lafontaine and two other backcourt returnees: 6'1" Malik Diaz and 6'0" Rieko Ruach to focus on producing on the wing. Diaz got noticeably more comfortable as his freshman season wore on and Ruach, Tut's younger brother, is a strong, physical scoring guard who uses his body to get to the rim - a sharp contrast to how his older brother gets it done.
Virtually the entire roster had to deal with injuries last season and with significantly more depth and the added size, expect York to mould into a solid playoff team by season's end. This remains a very young group with only one player on the roster (Haynes) in his fourth year or higher (no fifth year guys) so the challenge for Bain and Oliveri is to find the correct rotation and roles for a group with much promise.
York's pre-season is highlighted by a trip to Atlantic Canada to play St. Mary's, Acadia and Dalhousie.
Saturday, 12 September 2009
First Look at CIS Pre-Season
With most Canadian universities beginning the autumn academic term this past week, CIS men's basketball teams are in the midst of tryouts and/or pre-season practices with some, in the case of Laval, already playing an exhibition game. It is a good time then to take a quick look at the coming set of pre-season tournaments, tours and exhibition games that will take place through a five week period in October, keeping in mind that the CIS National tournament has one wild card entry, bringing added significance to these non-league matchups.
In what has become the unofficial kickoff to the opening of the CIS tournament season, John Dore's Concordia Stingers will once again host their NIKE Invitational in Montreal during the Thanksgiving Day weekend (October 9th and 10th). UNB also has moved up their annual Eric Garland tournament to that weekend. However, there will be CIS basketball prior to that weekend, primarily in Eastern Ontario/Quebec as Laval and Concordia tour through Ottawa and Kingston during the weekend of October 2nd, 3rd and 4th. Les Rouge et Or will meet the Ottawa Gee-Gees on October 2nd at Outaouais CEGEP in Gatineau before moving on to Kingston to face Queen's and RMC. Concordia will prep for defense of their own tournament crown with 3 games in Kingston on that weekend: at Queen's on the Friday night and then at St. Lawrence, where our good friend Barry Smith, ex-Queen's coach from the 80's and 90's, always has competitive teams and then later that same day at RMC.
Greater Toronto area fans should mark Saturday October 3rd on their calendars as the Varsity Blues visit OCAA power Sheridan Bruins in Oakville. Varsity mentor Mike Katz and Sheridan coach Jim Flack have locked horns numerous times over the years going back to those great Humber/Sheridan rivalry games with Katz was at Humber and this matchup should rekindle that friendly but heated rivalry. The Humber/Sheridan rivalry continues to this day as CIS alumnus/former UPEI great Darrell Glenn continues the excellence started by Katz keeping the great Humber program at the top of the Canadian colleges rankings. Also on the weekend of 3 October, out west Trinity Western, Fraser Valley and Simon Fraser kick off their seasons with games against BCCAA sides.
On the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving, Manitoba will host the Duckworth Challenge in Winnipeg, which is a pre-season cross-town rivalry game between the Bisons and Winnipeg Wesmen. With the Canada West format and schedule changing, these rivals meet only twice during the regular season and this is an excellent way to kickoff the CIS basketball season in Winnipeg. In addition to the Concordia NIKE and UNB Eric Garland tournaments over Thanksgiving, new coach Greg Francis has arranged for a tour of Southern Ontario with his Alberta Golden Bears, including games at U of T on Friday October 9th and at McMaster on Saturday, October 10th. The McMaster game is a homecoming of sorts for Francis, who coached Canada's NEDA program for the past two seasons with a home base at Mac in Hamilton. Lakehead also hosts Brandon for a pair of games in Thunder Bay on Oct. 9th and 10th in another Canada West/OUA West inter-conference matchup.
The following weekend sees the pre-season in full swing highlighted by the longest tenured CIS tournament, the Naismith Classic which Waterloo will host for the 41st edition and where the veteran Warriors will welcome Acadia, Manitoba and U of T Varsity Blues. Carleton's House Laughton tournament always seems to attract solid teams from around the country and this season the Ravens host Canada West's Saskatchewan Huskies, Quebec's Bishop Gaiters and UPEI Panthers from the AUS. McGill's Redmen Classic in Montreal is a four-team, three-day set up which includes McMaster, Ottawa and UQAM.
Also on tap that weekend is the Hawk Classic at Laurier (with Dalhousie, Winnipeg and Brock) and the annual St. FX Invitational in Antigonish (with X, UNB, St. Mary's). Both of these tournaments are two-day, four-team affairs. Brandon Bobcats also host their annual four-team tournament in the Wheat City with Lakehead among the participants. Finally both Laval and Windsor will take the long trek out to the west coast with Les Rouge et Or playing four games in 3 1/2 days beginning with a match at UBC followed by at Simon Fraser, at Fraser Valley and at Thompson Rivers on the Sunday afternoon. The Lancers meet Fraser Valley, UBC and Simon Fraser.
The weekend of October 23, 24 and 25 is the final weekend of extensive CIS tournament play until Christmas and arguably the tournament with the strongest field of the pre-season happens in Quebec City at Laval. With les Rouge et Or likely to compete for the "Q" crown, Calgary Dinos among the best teams in Canada West, defending AUS champions Dalhousie Tigers and two-time CIS Nationals participants Western Mustangs, these games all should have Top 10 implications.
Other major tourneys on the 23rd October weekend include Ottawa's Jack Donohue Memorial Tip-off tournament which, with the Gee-Gees, U of T Varsity Blues, Cape Breton Capers and Bishop's involved in the three-day affair, involves at least 3 teams which could be in the CIS Top 10. Another big name in CIS history, Guy Vetrie, is honoured with a tournament in his name at Victoria in which this year Carleton Ravens, Alberta Golden Bears and Fraser Valley Cascades visit. Saskatchewan also hosts the Graham Construction Shootout in Saskatoon with Regina, McGill and Thompson Rivers participating. Finally, Winnipeg Wesmen host the first of their two annual tournaments (along with the Wesmen Classic, a Christmas tradition), Pembina Chrysler Classic with Laurentian, Concordia and Manitoba.
Southern Ontario fans should be treated to a bevy of inter-sectional CIS basketball during the 23rd weekend as both . St. FX and St. Mary's have tours planned through several OUA West cities. Both teams will meet Mac, Brock and Guelph and St. Mary's has scheduled an extra game against Laurier.
The following weekend takes us into November when teams typically visit NCAA schools for exhibitions. While the schedule of CIS schools in the U.S. this season is not as extensive as in the past, there are several games which we will highlight in a subsequent post. Still, the Hallowe'en weekend will see further exhibitions as York Lions and RMC Paladins tour Atlantic Canada with games against Acadia, Dalhousie and St. Mary's in what in previous years has been the Stu Aberdeen Classic. That same weekend, Cape Breton and UPEI tour Quebec to face McGill, UQAM and Bishop's.
Suffice to say there is a ton of great CIS inter-conference basketball to get set for come October. We should have a detailed CIS pre-season schedule available for readers in the coming weeks.
In what has become the unofficial kickoff to the opening of the CIS tournament season, John Dore's Concordia Stingers will once again host their NIKE Invitational in Montreal during the Thanksgiving Day weekend (October 9th and 10th). UNB also has moved up their annual Eric Garland tournament to that weekend. However, there will be CIS basketball prior to that weekend, primarily in Eastern Ontario/Quebec as Laval and Concordia tour through Ottawa and Kingston during the weekend of October 2nd, 3rd and 4th. Les Rouge et Or will meet the Ottawa Gee-Gees on October 2nd at Outaouais CEGEP in Gatineau before moving on to Kingston to face Queen's and RMC. Concordia will prep for defense of their own tournament crown with 3 games in Kingston on that weekend: at Queen's on the Friday night and then at St. Lawrence, where our good friend Barry Smith, ex-Queen's coach from the 80's and 90's, always has competitive teams and then later that same day at RMC.
Greater Toronto area fans should mark Saturday October 3rd on their calendars as the Varsity Blues visit OCAA power Sheridan Bruins in Oakville. Varsity mentor Mike Katz and Sheridan coach Jim Flack have locked horns numerous times over the years going back to those great Humber/Sheridan rivalry games with Katz was at Humber and this matchup should rekindle that friendly but heated rivalry. The Humber/Sheridan rivalry continues to this day as CIS alumnus/former UPEI great Darrell Glenn continues the excellence started by Katz keeping the great Humber program at the top of the Canadian colleges rankings. Also on the weekend of 3 October, out west Trinity Western, Fraser Valley and Simon Fraser kick off their seasons with games against BCCAA sides.
On the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving, Manitoba will host the Duckworth Challenge in Winnipeg, which is a pre-season cross-town rivalry game between the Bisons and Winnipeg Wesmen. With the Canada West format and schedule changing, these rivals meet only twice during the regular season and this is an excellent way to kickoff the CIS basketball season in Winnipeg. In addition to the Concordia NIKE and UNB Eric Garland tournaments over Thanksgiving, new coach Greg Francis has arranged for a tour of Southern Ontario with his Alberta Golden Bears, including games at U of T on Friday October 9th and at McMaster on Saturday, October 10th. The McMaster game is a homecoming of sorts for Francis, who coached Canada's NEDA program for the past two seasons with a home base at Mac in Hamilton. Lakehead also hosts Brandon for a pair of games in Thunder Bay on Oct. 9th and 10th in another Canada West/OUA West inter-conference matchup.
The following weekend sees the pre-season in full swing highlighted by the longest tenured CIS tournament, the Naismith Classic which Waterloo will host for the 41st edition and where the veteran Warriors will welcome Acadia, Manitoba and U of T Varsity Blues. Carleton's House Laughton tournament always seems to attract solid teams from around the country and this season the Ravens host Canada West's Saskatchewan Huskies, Quebec's Bishop Gaiters and UPEI Panthers from the AUS. McGill's Redmen Classic in Montreal is a four-team, three-day set up which includes McMaster, Ottawa and UQAM.
Also on tap that weekend is the Hawk Classic at Laurier (with Dalhousie, Winnipeg and Brock) and the annual St. FX Invitational in Antigonish (with X, UNB, St. Mary's). Both of these tournaments are two-day, four-team affairs. Brandon Bobcats also host their annual four-team tournament in the Wheat City with Lakehead among the participants. Finally both Laval and Windsor will take the long trek out to the west coast with Les Rouge et Or playing four games in 3 1/2 days beginning with a match at UBC followed by at Simon Fraser, at Fraser Valley and at Thompson Rivers on the Sunday afternoon. The Lancers meet Fraser Valley, UBC and Simon Fraser.
The weekend of October 23, 24 and 25 is the final weekend of extensive CIS tournament play until Christmas and arguably the tournament with the strongest field of the pre-season happens in Quebec City at Laval. With les Rouge et Or likely to compete for the "Q" crown, Calgary Dinos among the best teams in Canada West, defending AUS champions Dalhousie Tigers and two-time CIS Nationals participants Western Mustangs, these games all should have Top 10 implications.
Other major tourneys on the 23rd October weekend include Ottawa's Jack Donohue Memorial Tip-off tournament which, with the Gee-Gees, U of T Varsity Blues, Cape Breton Capers and Bishop's involved in the three-day affair, involves at least 3 teams which could be in the CIS Top 10. Another big name in CIS history, Guy Vetrie, is honoured with a tournament in his name at Victoria in which this year Carleton Ravens, Alberta Golden Bears and Fraser Valley Cascades visit. Saskatchewan also hosts the Graham Construction Shootout in Saskatoon with Regina, McGill and Thompson Rivers participating. Finally, Winnipeg Wesmen host the first of their two annual tournaments (along with the Wesmen Classic, a Christmas tradition), Pembina Chrysler Classic with Laurentian, Concordia and Manitoba.
Southern Ontario fans should be treated to a bevy of inter-sectional CIS basketball during the 23rd weekend as both . St. FX and St. Mary's have tours planned through several OUA West cities. Both teams will meet Mac, Brock and Guelph and St. Mary's has scheduled an extra game against Laurier.
The following weekend takes us into November when teams typically visit NCAA schools for exhibitions. While the schedule of CIS schools in the U.S. this season is not as extensive as in the past, there are several games which we will highlight in a subsequent post. Still, the Hallowe'en weekend will see further exhibitions as York Lions and RMC Paladins tour Atlantic Canada with games against Acadia, Dalhousie and St. Mary's in what in previous years has been the Stu Aberdeen Classic. That same weekend, Cape Breton and UPEI tour Quebec to face McGill, UQAM and Bishop's.
Suffice to say there is a ton of great CIS inter-conference basketball to get set for come October. We should have a detailed CIS pre-season schedule available for readers in the coming weeks.
Rouge et Or kick off CIS pre-season with easy win
Coach Jacques Paiement Jr. and his Laval Rouge et Or, a likely favorite for the Quebec league crown this season, kicked off their 2009-10 pre-season with a decisive 91-42 thrashing of CEGEP Ste-Foy in Chicoutimi, Quebec. As one might expect, the scoring was well distributed as Laval had seven players who scored between 9 and 13 points led by 6'3" J.F. Beaulieu-Mahieux, a Quebec league POY candidate, who had 13 points. 5'8" freshman J.P. Renaud, a 1st team all-CEGEP selection last season while playing for Ste.Foy scorched his old program for 13 points as well. Recall that Paiement Jr. spent 7 seasons as Head Coach at Ste. Foy and with his official move to the head position at Laval, Paiement Jr.'s former assistant Eric Segal takes over the role at Ste. Foy.
Les Rouge et Or continue their pre-season on September 20 (next Sunday) with a match at CEGEP de Limoilou at 2:30 PM. Laval's first action against CIS competition is on October 2nd at 8 PM when they travel to the Capital Region to meet Ottawa Gee-Gees in a game that will be played at CEGEP de l'Outaouais across the Ottawa river in Gatineau, Quebec, beginning at 8 PM. That same weekend, Laval moves on to Kingston for games against Queen's (Oct. 3 at 7 PM) and RMC (Oct. 4 at 4 PM).
Les Rouge et Or continue their pre-season on September 20 (next Sunday) with a match at CEGEP de Limoilou at 2:30 PM. Laval's first action against CIS competition is on October 2nd at 8 PM when they travel to the Capital Region to meet Ottawa Gee-Gees in a game that will be played at CEGEP de l'Outaouais across the Ottawa river in Gatineau, Quebec, beginning at 8 PM. That same weekend, Laval moves on to Kingston for games against Queen's (Oct. 3 at 7 PM) and RMC (Oct. 4 at 4 PM).
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