Skip to content

Home basketball tournament described as success for both Canora teams

For the home tournament on January 15-16, the Canora players were divided into two teams: the junior team and the Grade 7s. Most of the other teams in the tournament had players from grades 7 to 9.

For the home tournament on January 15-16, the Canora players were divided into two teams: the junior team and the Grade 7s.

            Most of the other teams in the tournament had players from grades 7 to 9.

The weekend was a huge success for both Canora girls' teams, said Ronda O’Dell, the coach.  The junior team faced Preeceville on the Friday and came out with a win of 67-23.

The Grade 7 team faced off against a Norquay team and lost 76-21, however, it must be noted that most teams in the tourney were made up of grades 7-9 players, she said. The girls fought hard and took the loss in stride as they prepared for Saturday's game against the Langenburg Grade 7 team.

“Their strengths were showcased as they met up with an equal strength team and came out on top with a 42-32 win,” O’Dell said. “Top scorers for Canora were Emily Owchar and Courtney Popoff each with 18 points. The Grade 7s then faced Sturgis in the B-side final, but just came up a bit short as they lost that game 40-30.”

Saturday was another successful day for the grades 8-9 team, she said. “The girls met up with Yorkdale and defeated them 62-18. The Grade 8s saw a lot of court time with Megan Barteski scoring 10 points for the Cougars. The Grade 9s saw little court time, but managed to put up huge points as Mackenzie Gulka scored 14 points and Felicity Mydonick scored 20.

This win had the Cougars facing YRHS in the A-final, O’Dell said. “It was a real nail-biter as the teams went back and forth taking the lead. The Cougars came out on top as they defeated YRHS 52-48. The last few minutes of the game saw both teams in foul trouble and at the line numerous times. Top scorers for Canora were Mackenzie Gulka with 18 points and Ally Sleeva with 10.

The girls head to Wynyard this weekend and wrap up the season in Melville.  Districts will take place on February 26-27.