THE Surrey RCMP is once again partnering with the Surrey School District to host this year’s 28th Annual Surrey RCMP Basketball Classic which has expanded and evolved year after year. This tournament continues to be one of the largest in BC and is the largest RCMP-sponsored tournament in the country. The tournament not only assists student athletes secure scholarships for their future academic and athletic aspirations, it also provides a great opportunity for the community to come together and experience a wonderful Surrey tradition.
Basketball players throughout Surrey schools look forward to this tournament as it not only brings out the highest level of healthy competition between students, but it also strengthens the bonds between students and police officers who are actively engaged every day in their school settings. Officers from the Surrey RCMP’s Youth Unit and Gang Enforcement Team will be in attendance at the games cheering on the students and engaging with youth and parents.
What: Surrey RCMP Basketball Classic
When: Sunday, January 13 – Saturday, January 19
Where: Various schools within the Surrey School District
Who: Over 650 student athletes, coaches, staff, Surrey RCMP officers, and City of Surrey representatives
“Our officers really enjoy attending the tournament and interacting with our student athletes along with being part of the coaches versus RCMP game,” says Superintendent Shawn Gill. “We are very proud of how this event has evolved over the years and is a highlight for the students each and every year. These types of events afford a positive road to success and our city is lucky to have so many positive youth role models.”
“We are very excited about this year’s tournament and seeing it grow with the support of the Surrey RCMP and Surrey School District,” says Kevin De Boice, Panorama Ridge Secondary Principal and co-chair of the Classic. “The tournament is a very positive legacy amongst our alumni as every year more and more of them return to cheer on their school. The Surrey RCMP’s presence at our games also adds to the excitement and engagement of our students. We value their involvement from presenting awards and scholarships to their attendance at games throughout the week.”
The final senior and junior championship games will be held on Saturday, January 19 at Enver Creek Secondary (14505 84th Avenue Surrey). This is followed by awards presentations involving Surrey RCMP officers and School District officials. As part of the annual tradition, Surrey RCMP officers will also be taking on the coaches in an annual Team RCMP vs Coaches game on that final Saturday.
For information on the tournament visit the Surrey RCMP Basketball Classic website and for information on the Surrey RCMP’s Youth Programs visit Surrey RCMP website.