“In Canada, basketball is the fastest growing sport for ages 12 to 17,” noted his presentation to Council.
Hayden said, in 2008, a small skill development program was started using any gym space we could find.
“By 2018, the program grew to 100 boys and girls participating in a grade 4 to 6 mini basketball program,” stated his hand out to Council.
“Unfortunately, the boys program had to be discontinued when we were asked to vacate the gym space we were using, thus cutting the program in half.”
In March of 2020, the girls league was also stopped due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
We are currently attempting to re-establish it, said Hayden.
Noting, this proposal is presented on behalf of the young basketball players in our city, Hayden said the solution would be a basketball facility.
“All programs, low cost – no cost. Having a basketball facility would enable us to resume these programs, plus the ability to expand our programs,” said the report.
The space required would by a 94 by 50-foot court, training areas, limited seating, change rooms and other basic amenities.
Councillor Quinn Haider asked what the cost of such a facility might be.
While no specific costs had been determined Hayden said it was suggested a cost of around $300 per square foot, would be in the ballpark making the approximate 10,000 square foot facility costing out at around $3 million.
The request was filed and referred to further study by Council.
