Griffins in Canada

Over the winter break, our Athletic Director, Mr Peter Vandebovenkamp (aka Mr V.) took 9 eager basketball players to his homeland, Canada, for a basketball and cultural experience. The group consisted of 7 AIS boys, former AIS player Mads and Alex, a local Belgian, who is the nephew of our Varsity Girls coach Lando Dubois.

The team had the privilege to participate in the 61st Annual Purple and White Tournament at Western University in London, Ontario, which is Mr V.’s old university. It’s the oldest high school tournament in Canada and always attracts the top teams. Finishing 5th out of 16 teams was a fantastic result. The boys beat London Laurier High School and Barrie St. Joe’s High School but lost to Windsor Holy Names High School.

After the tournament, they played two more friendly games: at Essex District High School in Essex, Peter’s old high school and at Stratford Northwestern High school in Stratford, Ontario. A victory for AIS in both games. And a mention in the local online newspaper.

Just so the boys realised Canada is not only about basketball, the chaperones added some Canadian culture to the trip. The boys enjoyed watching a Raptors Game and a semi-pro ice hockey game, and took part in a Canadian Axe Throwing competition. 

The group celebrated New Year’s Eve in London, Ontario.