Over the past few years, the Brennan Park Recreation Centre has become almost a second home for me. As a parent of two school-aged children, my life revolves around swimming lessons, open skating, soccer practices, baseball hitting sessions, and playtime on the grass fields. I feel like I’m becoming part of the furniture there—something many parents can relate to! Yet, every time I pass the tennis and pickleball courts, I can’t help but notice a significant absence: basketball.
Some might question the importance of basketball, but consider this: it is one of the most popular sports globally and is rapidly growing in Canada. A study by Sportsnet reveals that 16% of Canadian youth follow the NBA, trailing only the NHL (27%) among professional sports. Among new Canadian youth, however, interest in the NBA jumps to 27%, compared with just 8% for the NHL. This surge is partly due to Canada’s increasing diversity.
You might think, “But who in Squamish cares about basketball?” On the contrary, the local program Hoop Reel has seen over 400 boys and girls participate in the last three years, fostering a strong community spirit. Teams compete from October to May in the Lower Mainland and regularly engage in friendly competitions with programs in Whistler and Pemberton. Additionally, players come together each December to raise thousands for the PearlSpace in Squamish, showcasing immense positivity and pride.
Basketball’s community-building aspect is another reason for its importance. Just visit Totem Hall on Tuesday nights, where locals from various walks of life gather to play. As a regular player at Totem Hall, I appreciate the diversity of participants, which enriches the game.
Moreover, basketball is inherently inclusive. “Pickup” games allow anyone to join, making it easy for newcomers to engage. Many of our children will eventually move to larger cities or abroad, where basketball will likely be a popular sport, providing opportunities to meet new people and build friendships.
The low cost of entry is another advantage; all you need are some shoes and a positive attitude. This accessibility is crucial, especially in Squamish, where not everyone can afford expensive ski passes, hockey gear, or mountain bikes. We often overlook the wealth of diversity in our community, but basketball can offer a nearly free alternative if there’s a place to play.
Currently, the only basketball facilities in Squamish are at schools, which aren’t always accessible for casual play. If we can build pickleball courts at Brennan, surely we can create at least one basketball court. Indoor options are limited, with only Don Ross Middle School and Howe Sound High School having courts for middle-schoolers or older, and securing weekend time there is, in many cases, not even possible.
I advocate for creating a visible basketball space that encourages organic participation. With a modest investment in outdoor courts and potential indoor facilities, we can establish a sustainable home for basketball in Squamish. Interested in helping make this happen? Email: [email protected].
Evan Williams
Squamish
