What makes a team? Is it wearing the same jersey or shooting in the same hoop?
Great teams don’t just happen. They are a result of persistence, patience, and thoughtful leadership. They are a result of losses and wins, of ups and downs, of joy and sadness. The rankings don’t make the team — it is the sense of spirit, cohesion, and fellowship that do. Walking into the Collingwood School gym, a feeling of true camaraderie radiated as almost every student and every teacher sat in the bleachers eager for the game to begin.
To have no regrets is to accept successes and failures, to gain experience, and to challenge oneself. The name of this tournament perfectly upholds its ideals: It is an opportunity for basketball teams from all over the lower mainland to compete for the win, and secure their technique.
This game was particularly important for the Collingwood Cavaliers. Annually, the Collingwood Community participates in a “white out” — a spirit day in which all students and staff dress in white to honour Quinn Keast, and the compelling notion of having no regrets. This tournament touches the hearts of many within and outside of Collingwood school.
Basketball is a staple to many schools, especially those involved in this tournament. Inspiring many students, and instilling dignity and pride the No Regrets tournament brings people from all over British Columbia together.
It was the Collingwood Cavaliers against the David Thompson Trojans. As the game began, the excitement in the crowd only increased. Jump ball quickly took place between the two teams. The game commenced at a fairly fast pace; it was obvious both teams were putting forth their best effort. Collingwood had possession of the ball first and was quick to score. Duncan Bustos — a collingwood player — scored first and perfectly set the tone for the game. Following the first basket, everyone sprang out of their seats cheering for the Cavs. The Cavaliers had made easy layups, and were in the lead after the first Q.
As the game progressed, David Thompson struggled with the speed and agility of the Cavs. Numerous shot attempts by the Trojans were challenged by strong defense. Collingwood did a particularly good job at rebounding despite the Trajan’s considerable defense. Player #12 on the David Thompson team scored the first few baskets and did a fabulous job defending. Brody Jacobs, Imran Karmali, and Lochlan Collins (to name a few) consistently scored baskets. Both teams had assists and rebounds in addition to special plays/techniques that aided them in scoring/defending.
The strong defense and great shots by the Cavaliers was doing damage to the Trojans. By the third quarter the score was 34 for Collingwood to 28 for David Thompson. It was obvious by the fourth quarter a clear winner had emerged. The timer on the scoreboard at last hit zero and the Cavs had won 78 to 50.
Congratulation to both the Collingwood Cavaliers and the David Thompson Trojans on being a part of the No Regrets Basketball Tournament. It was a pleasure watching this game. Thank you to the coaches, volunteers, and players who allowed for this tournament to take place.
In the end, what kept the Collingwood Cavaliers cool was their amazing fans (no pun intended)! This game certainly encompassed what it means to have no regrets and to be a part of a team.
What is competition? Competition is useful up to a certain point and no further, but cooperation begins where competition leaves off. Ultimately, leadership is not about glorious crowning acts. It’s about keeping your team focused on a goal and motivated to do their best to achieve it, especially when the stakes are high and the consequences really matter. It is about laying the groundwork for others’ success and then standing back and letting them shine. Achievers have an enabling attitude, realism, and a conviction that they themselves are the laboratory of innovation. Their ability to change themselves is central to their success. They have learned to conserve their energy by minimizing the time spent in regret or complaint. Every event is a lesson to them, every person a teacher.
By Eve Parry