Wildcats Launch Community Basketball Initiative with Launch Kawartha Lakes Support
The Lindsay Wildcats Basketball Association is proud to share the impact of a generous $12,000 LEAP Grant received through Launch Kawartha Lakes, an investment that is already making a meaningful difference in schools and communities across the region.
This funding has allowed the Wildcats to expand access to basketball in a way that supports not only our athletes, but youth and educators throughout Kawartha Lakes.
🏫 Supporting Schools Across Kawartha Lakes
With the support of the LEAP Grant, the Wildcats launched an initiative focused on equipping local elementary schools with the tools they need to grow the game.
Our executive team connected directly with schools across the region to identify where support was needed most. Through this outreach, we were able to:
Provide basketballs to schools in need of updated equipment
Supply two game-quality basketballs to every elementary school in Kawartha Lakes
Access to proper equipment is essential in helping students build confidence, develop skills, and fully participate in school sports. This initiative ensures that more students have the opportunity to engage with basketball in a meaningful way.
⛹️♀️ Growing the Game Through Community Clinics
In addition to supporting schools, the Wildcats hosted two free basketball clinics this winter, one for girls and one for boys, open to youth from across the region.
These clinics were designed to be fun, welcoming, and focused on fundamentals, creating an environment where players of all skill levels could learn and grow.
Leading these sessions were dedicated Wildcats coaches:
Jodie Collins (U14 Girls Rep Coach & Executive Member)
Luis Segura (U12 & U14 Boys Rep Coach & Executive Member)
Andrea Lackey (House League Coach, Executive Member & Community Liaison)
🔥 A Full House at Weldon
The clinics were a tremendous success, with a full house at I.E. Weldon Secondary School and an incredible turnout from athletes across the region.
The energy in the gym was exactly what community sport is all about; kids learning, laughing, competing, and building confidence in a positive and supportive environment. It was a powerful reminder of how much opportunity exists when access is created.
🍎 Supporting Educators and School Programs
As part of this initiative, the Wildcats also invited local elementary school teachers to attend the clinics.
By supporting teachers alongside students, this initiative helps strengthen basketball programming at the grassroots level.
💜 A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our sincere thanks to Launch Kawartha Lakes for their investment in youth sport and in our community.
Their support is helping us create spaces where kids can play, grow, and feel part of something bigger, while also ensuring schools have the equipment needed to make sport accessible to all.
🏀 Looking Ahead
As we continue to build and expand our programs, we remain committed to supporting not just our athletes, but the broader community that makes this all possible.
Together, we are growing something bigger than basketball.
