The Grade 9 Columneetza Falcons recently traveled to Hope, BC, to compete in a Junior Girls Basketball Tournament. Under the leadership of co-coaches Brigette Peel and Kaylee Billyboy, the team showcased incredible determination, skill, and growth throughout the weekend.
A weekend of competition
The Falcons began the tournament on Friday night with a tough match against the host team, Hope Secondary. Despite a valiant effort, Columneetza fell to Hope in the opening game. However, the team rebounded in spectacular fashion on Saturday, securing three consecutive victories against Peter Skene Ogden (PSO), Robert Bateman and Highland Secondary.
The tournament format involved round-robin play, allowing the Falcons to face every team in attendance. While Columneetza tied with Hope in overall wins, the head-to-head game—a key tiebreaker under tournament rules—ultimately crowned Hope as the tournament champions.
“Our team just continues to learn and adjust to the teams we face,” said Coach Peel. “Each of the teams brought different presses and defensive strategies, and the girls just kept finding ways to outpace the other teams.”
Unsung heroes recognized
A unique feature of the tournament was the recognition of “unsung heroes” in each game. Coaches from both teams selected players who exemplified effort, sportsmanship, and teamwork. These players received two awards: one to keep and another to give to an opposing player who stood out.
The Columneetza Falcons’ unsung heroes included:
Game 1: Katy Jasper (coach’s pick), Emily Hutchinson (opposing team’s pick)
Game 2: Kammille Cunningham (coach’s pick), Katy Jasper (opposing team’s pick)
Game 3: Jolie Lulua (coach’s pick), Katy Jasper (opposing team’s pick)
Game 4: Justine Billyboy (coach’s pick), Kelsey Camille (opposing team’s pick)
Coach Peel highlighted the team’s strong defence, particularly in the paint, where their tall post players delivered crucial stops. “We offer a lot of pressure for the other teams bringing up the ball. There are lots of steals that result in points off those turnovers,” she said. “We couldn’t be happier with the progress this team makes every weekend of play.”
All-Star and MVP honors
Throughout the tournament, coaches voted for standout players from opposing teams, culminating in Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards for those with the most votes. For Columneetza, Emily Hutchinson and Anna-Sofia Vasquez-Gebert earned these well-deserved accolades.
“Emily was on fire and got player of the tournament,” said Jenn Brown, a team mom and dedicated fan who travelled with the team. “Katy was chosen player of the game for multiple games by opposing players. It was wonderful to see the sense of community, especially with Cariboo teams from PSO (Peter Skene Ogden - 100 Mile House) and Columneetza cheering each other on.”
A memorable experience
The tournament not only tested the Falcons’ endurance—playing three games on Saturday—but also offered valuable lessons in teamwork and adaptability. “We continue to grow in individual skills and, more importantly, as a team,” Coach Peel remarked. “This team’s hard work and dedication are paying off, and it’s exciting to see them develop their game.”
The Falcons also experienced the warm hospitality of Hope Secondary, creating a positive and supportive atmosphere for all teams involved. “Hope’s hospitality was great!” Jenn Brown added.
The Grade 9 girls will continue their season with games in the North Central zone, with hopes of qualifying for provincials this coming February.
Travis Nystoruk is a Williams Lake coach, referee and member of the Williams Lake Minor Basketball Association
