BARRINGTON, N.S. — By KATHY JOHNSON
TRI-COUNTY VANGUARD
Three basketball players from Barrington Municipal High School have been selected for the first Nova Scotia U15-18 team to participate in the Bahamas basketball exchange program through Empower Sports Network (ESN).
Junior high player Silas Willis, Grade 9, and senior high players Danté Swim and Nate Wickens, Grade 10, were chosen for the team after trying out on Jan. 11 at the Canada Games Centre in Halifax.
“Those three boys represented themselves and the community well,” said Ollen Smith, founder of the sports and events organization ESN. Smith is also one of the assistant coaches with the St. Mary’s Huskies men’s basketball program.
“The Bahamas basketball exchange is created to be a fun and innovative way to give all participants a chance to experience the Bahamas’ culture and be exposed to great basketball,” said Smith. “The goal for the trip and ESN Empower Sports Network was to have four teams of 12 leave Nova Scotia with family and friends for the Bahamas. This is a trip for everyone to create great memories and enjoy themselves while doing so.”
Team training will begin in May in Halifax in preparation of the Aug. 13 to 18 trip.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our youth to experience different culture through sports, represent our culture and build relationships,” said mom Lisa Wickens.
An NCAA Division 1 tournament will also be taking place, which will provide an opportunity to watch and play high-level basketball, she added.
The three athletes will be conducting fundraisers and seeking sponsorship in the coming weeks. It is estimated they each need to raise $3,000.