Niagara River Lions set to launch children’s book at St. Catharines Public Library

From player to team ambassador, then head coach and general manager.

Kimbal Mackenzie’s journey with the Niagara River Lions continues to be an interesting one, and next month he’ll add a new chapter.

Literally.

The Niagara River Lions are excited to announce the release of If Dunkin Can, So Can You, a new children’s book starring the team’s beloved mascot, Dunkin the River Lion. The book follows Dunkin as he steps outside his comfort zone to try new things, showing young readers that a little confidence can go a long way.

The book was created in collaboration with local illustrator Bob Goodall, whose artwork brings Dunkin’s adventures to life for readers of all ages.

The launch also kicks off the River Lions’ school reading tour. Head Coach and General Manager Kimbal Mackenzie will visit elementary schools across the region to read If Dunkin Can, So Can You with primary classes and lead a discussion about trying new things and building confidence. The back page of the book carries the lesson further with two activities. In the classroom, a Dunkin plush and the book go home with one student at a time, who tries something new, draws or writes about it, and shares the story with the class before passing Dunkin along. At home, parents and caregivers help their child pick something new to try, talk about how they felt before and after, and draw or write about it.

For the River Lions, the book is another way to connect with young fans beyond game nights and to spread a positive message across Niagara. A portion of all book sales will be donated to the River Lions charitable foundation, which will officially launch in the coming months.

“As an organization, we’re always looking for new and meaningful ways to connect with our fans and make the River Lions a part of their lives beyond the basketball court,” said Michelle Biskip, President of the Niagara River Lions. “Community outreach and positive messaging are a big part of who we are, and this book gives us a fun, creative way to bring those values to life for young readers and families across Niagara.”

Presented in partnership with the St. Catharines Public Library, the launch takes place on Saturday, December 5, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Merritt Branch. The event runs in two one-hour sessions, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., so families can choose the time that works best for them. The event is free, but registration is required.

Event Highlights

Story time with Kimbal Mackenzie: Hear Kimbal read If Dunkin Can, So Can You at 2:45 p.m. (first session) and 3:45 p.m. (second session)

Meet & greet: Say hello to Dunkin and fellow mascot Courtney

Photo opportunities with the mascots

Kids’ activities throughout the afternoon

Book signing by Dunkin and Kimbal Mackenzie

Meet the illustrator: Bob Goodall will be on hand to celebrate the launch

Commemorative Bookmark: Each child in attendance will receive a limited-edition bookmark to take home

Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event for $16.99, or bundled with a Dunkin plush for $35.99.

Preorders are also available on the River Lions Shop and will ship or be available for pick-up after the book officially launches on December 5.

Event Registration

Admission is free with registration. Families can register for their preferred session on the St. Catharines Public Library website.

2:30 PM Session Registration

3:30 PM Session Registration

About the Niagara River Lions

The Niagara River Lions are one of the founding franchises of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) and back-to-back league champions (2024 and 2025). Competing out of the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines from May to August each season, the River Lions proudly represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region, uniting fans through passion, pride and purpose. Entering their second decade, the River Lions have earned a reputation for championship-calibre performance and community impact, embodying the strength and spirit of Niagara on and off the court. For more information, visit www.riverlions.ca.

About the St. Catharines Public Library

Located in the heart of “The Garden City,” the St. Catharines Public Library (SCPL) is a hub of information connecting people to ideas and community to culture.

In addition to books, the Library is home to a variety of experiential programs, spaces, and public services, as well as host of digital collections and online resources. It is a place for people of all ages and demographics to come as they are; to uncover the past, rediscover the present, and reimagine the future with the momentum of a turning page.

About Kimbal Mackenzie, Niagara River Lions Brand & Community Ambassador

Kimbal Mackenzie is the Head Coach and General Manager of the Niagara River Lions, a two-time CEBL champion, and the club’s Brand & Community Ambassador.

Through school visits, workshops, and motivational talks, he shares his journey from Oakville to Division 1 basketball and the pro ranks, delivering messages on perseverance, leadership, and healthy habits.

Mackenzie is available to book for schools and community events at riverlions.ca