For what is believed to be the first time in Brock University and Badgers basketball history the entire starting lineup for the women’s team is made up of all Niagara natives.
Yes, all five starters are home grown.
That’s why this Saturday’s Paint the Meridian Red is extra special for many on the women’s team.
Led by two-time OUA Most Valuable Player and Badgers all-time leading scorer Madalyn Weinert of St. Catharines, the rest of the starting five includes Shailah Adams of Welland, Ava Stranges of St. David’s, Jamie Addy of St. Catharines and a combination of Janee Harrison of St. Catharines or Vienna Vercesi of Niagara Falls.
“Brock has such an incredible program, and the community that we’ve built around it is one in a million,” said Stranges, a second year guard with the team.
“I think as a local girl myself this event would have wanted me to come to Brock so much. It’s such a cool experience.”
Brookelyn Keltos of St. Catharines and Aleksija Vukovic of Grimsby are the other local products on the Brock Women’s team.
Third year guard Anthony Heyes of St. Catharines is the only local product on the Badgers men’s team. Heyes is expecting over 50 family and friends Saturday night.
“It’s awesome because my whole family comes out and supports,” Heyes said. “It’s really cool because I’m the only one from here and I have a lot of friends that still come through, and all of my high school buddies that I played with in Grade 12 – they love to come out – it’s a great experience.”
It’s the community connection that makes Paint the Meridian Red such a celebrated and highly anticipated experience, says Melissa Krist, Executive Director, Brock Sports and Recreation.
“By bringing together Badgers fans of all ages — students, families, alumni and more — the games create an unmatched atmosphere filled with school spirit, community pride and support for our players that leaves everyone in attendance wanting more,” said Krist to gobadgers.ca
“We look forward to welcoming the community back for another memorable night of top-tier basketball.”
The McMaster Marauders will provide the opposition with the women’s game tipping at 6 pm, followed by the men’s game at 8 pm.
While the games are the highlight of the evening, fans will also have the chance to explore a community zone with family-friendly activities, browse Brock Badgers merchandise at the Brock Campus Store pop-up and participate in giveaways.
Tickets for Paint the Meridian Red are available at ticketmaster.ca or at the Meridian Centre box office.
Rod Mawhood is a lifelong Niagara native who has had the pleasure of working in all three mediums – Radio, Print and TV – for over 20 years. His first announcing gig was with the then St. Catharines Stompers. Since then he’s worked in radio and TV in Toronto, and currently is the announcer for the Niagara IceDogs and Niagara River Lions.
Rod also covers the Buffalo Bills for FOX Sports and the Buffalo Sabres for NBC Sports.
