PRESIDENT of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) Mrs. Dawn McCammon-Barker has promised several more competitions will be played following the successful completion of its second tournament.
McCammon-Barker’s executive took office in February this year.
In a release last Saturday McCammon Barker said “This new Executive Body was established with an objective to create numerous opportunities for the game of basketball to be played at all levels; and as often as possible and today marks the completion of our second tournament in a matter of months, the first being our U17 Inter Secondary Schools Tournament which was won by Mackenzie High School.”
Five clubs, namely, the Victory Valley Royals, Amelia’s Ward Jets, Block 22 Flames, Retrieve Raiders and Central Mackenzie Kings have been affiliated to the LABA and contested the just concluded Nigel Hinds/ LABA Senior Championship.
That tournament was won by the Royals.
After taking office the president said thanked the clubs for staying at it and not giving up on the sport though it was dormant for a few years in our community.
“I promised you that basketball would be back and it’s back to stay for a very long time with your support. There is a U23 tournament scheduled for August and many more exciting tournaments for the latter half of the year,” affirmed the LABA boss.
She added, “I take this opportunity to congratulate the champions of the Nigel Hinds sponsored Linden Amateur Basketball Association Senior Men’s League- Heartland to Imhotep the Victory Valley Royals for a job well done. This team has over and over again proven why they are the number one basketball team in Guyana by remaining unbeaten over the course of this tournament and showcasing true skill in basketball. Your determination, skill, and relentless efforts have paid off. This epic achievement puts you in a league of your own, leaving us in awe of your talent as over and over again you continue to come out on top. We know that your success has inspired countless others, and we couldn’t be prouder of your remarkable success. Well done!”
Saying “no man is an island,” the top basketball official wasted no time in thanking all who played an important role in ensuring the tournament was played despite the challenges, among them being Mr. Nigel Hinds, “who continues to contribute to the LABA over and over again without hesitation and generously, ensuring that our Senior League would be one of envy that will be talked about for many years [as well as] Mr. James Brush and Gary Stephens who are residing abroad.”
She also thanked Linden businessmen Troy Easton and Aubrey Major, LABA 2nd Vice President Ms. Shauna Chester whose support played a pivotal part in the successful completion of this tournament, Tyreese Arthur, NKossi Daniels, Patrick Clarke, Dennis Niles Jr. who unhesitatingly agreed for us to use the Amelia’s Ward Hard Court, the few referees we have here in Linden such as Abdul Hamid Kevin Joseph for giving of their services when needed.
“My gratitude is also extended to the Guyana Basketball Federation for their support throughout this tournament. To all who showed up, sent their love and gave words of encouragement, I’m forever grateful,” said McCammon-Barker.
