The 87th edition of the competition will occur Feb. 7 in Estevan and Feb. 14 in Weyburn.
SOUTHEAST SASKATCHEWAN - For just the second time in four years, the Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs' and the Weyburn Comprehensive School Eagles' senior boys' and senior girls' basketball teams will compete in the McLeod Series.
The 87th best-of-four showdown will begin on Feb. 7 with games at the ECS gymnasium. The senior boys' game is at 5:30 p.m., with the girls' game to follow. There will be a canteen available. A silver collection will be taken at the door and all proceeds will help offset the cost of official and game expenses.
The second half of the series is scheduled for Feb. 14 in Weyburn.
The McLeod Series was cancelled in 2021 due to restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and in 2023 due to concerns with fan conduct. Weyburn has won the previous four editions, but each time the series has come down to the final game, and often the final minutes.
In an email to the Mercury, Elecs' senior girls basketball team head coach Jessie Smoliak reminded spectators about the need to respect players, coaches, officials and each other.
Citing the regulations from the Saskatchewan High School Athletics Association, she asks fans to respect the players in the game. Fans must cheer showing their support “for” their team and not disrespect their opponents.
School supporters are asked not to applaud errors by opponents, nor heckle, jeer or distract members of the opposing team.
Respect the officials. They are doing the best job that they can and should not be criticized for the judgments that they make but applauded for the service they provide to high school sport.
Fans must respect the property of the schools and the authority of the school officials.
Finally, refrain from using artificial noisemakers, drums or other musical instruments. The exception to this guideline would be a school pep band under the direct supervision of authorized school personnel, with the understanding that nothing will be done to interfere with the performance of the opposing team.
