Throughout the past 7-8 years, basketball within Martensville has seen consistent growth, as well as increased options available for various age groups. With this increase in options comes an increase in interest.
This year, there is a total of 11 Martensville basketball teams playing in the SMBA (Saskatoon Minor Basketball League). These teams consist of kids from grade 1 to grade 9. Once they reach high school age, they can either play with the local high school team, or with a team out of Saskatoon.
“We have been seeing more consistency with the number of teams that we have each year, which is great. It shows that this is something that kids are interested in participating in year after year,” Angie Reddekopp stated. “Martensville has really embraced basketball, and the spirit of the sport is growing within the community each year.”
With the addition of the new Martensville Recreation Centre to the community, the turf was removed from the Martensville Athletic Pavilion, opening another gym surface for basketball/volleyball tournaments.
The Martensville Thunder U15 club team hosted a fundraiser tournament at the MAP on January 4th and 5th that saw 24 teams in the tournament, as well as three showcase games with some of the more competitive club and NLDL (Next Level Development League) teams.
“It was an increase of approximately 16 teams from previous years, and was a large undertaking, as well as the first tournament in the MAP that was able to utilize all three of the surfaces. It was a great event and a great fundraiser for the club. It gave SMBA teams a taste of what tournament basketball is like, and we are hoping that we can continue running this in the future.”
The SMBA basketball season runs from October to March. Local participants have practices in Martensville, and games in Saskatoon. There is also a more competitive league option available with the NLDL, through SMBA for those that are interested.
“There are multiple options for camps as well as different levels of competition available within the province for those that are looking to increase their skill development and compete at a higher level. Basically, there is an abundance of opportunities available for every skill level,” Reddekopp added.
For more information on basketball opportunities, contact Angie Reddekopp at areddekopp@martensville.ca, or at (306) 683-5576.
“It really is a sport that anyone can play. All you need is a basketball and a pair of runners and you can pick it up. It is a great opportunity for anyone that is interested in getting more involved in sports that isn’t going to cost a lot of money. We are looking forward to seeing the growth that is sure to come with the sport in the community going forward.”
