Two tournaments, two locations, 16 teams.
The annual Panther Pit Classic basketball tournament will tip off this Thursday, Dec. 7, with the Vernon Secondary Panthers being hosts for the event that brings junior and senior girls teams to town.
“It’s set set to be a highly competitive weekend,” said VSS Junior coach Andy Collins.
“There will be 16 teams from across B.C. participating, battling things out on the court at both VSS and Seaton until Saturday.”
The Junior Panthers play at 5 p.m., Thursday, and 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Friday. Games Saturday will be determined by the preliminary round.
The Senior Panthers open up the tournament at 3:30 p.m.,Thursday, and will play at 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m., Friday, and 8 a.m., Saturday.
The Seaton Sonics will play in both draws while Coldstream’s Kalamalka Lakers are also part of the senior tournament.
Although the teams are just getting started in their seasons, the community has already shown tremendous support, and to show their gratitude Panthers Sr/Jr teams are hosting their first Pit Classic Toy Drive.
Players, families and spectators are being asked to bring a new, unwrapped gift to VSS games. Cash donations will also be accepted at the door. After the tournament the Junior Panthers will deliver the gifts to the Salvation Army House of Hope, Vernon, in the spirit of holiday giving.
Toy suggestions from the charity include;
• Craft kits - all ages;
• Jewelry making kits – 12-13 years old;
• Science kits – 8-12 years old;
• Lego;
• Cash for swimming passes or bowling passes – average $10.
“Coach Warren Cullum and myself are very proud of the girls’ efforts to give back to the community and are hoping that this weekend is successful both on and off the court,” said Collins.
Both VSS junior and senior teams are hoping to build on their respective successful first weekends of the season.
Both played in tournaments this past weekend with VSS Senior girls placing first in Summerland, and the Junior Panthers placing third in a highly competitive field in Pitt Meadows.
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