September 2, 2015
Province Celebrates Opening of New Basketball Court at Norquay Community Centre
– – –Better Recreational Facilities are Building Communities, Inspiring Healthy Living: Minister Caldwell
Youth in Winnipeg’s Point Douglas neighbourhood now have a new outdoor basketball court to play on at the Norquay Community Centre, Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell announced today.
“This new basketball court is a wonderful addition to the neighbourhood,” said Minister Caldwell. “Children from throughout the area will benefit and I’m proud to say the Manitoba government has supported this project that offers a safe space for the community to engage in healthy activities.”
The province provided the Norquay Community Centre with funding for a new, state-of-the-art outdoor basketball court. The project includes a new outdoor basketball court to replace two current courts that fell into disrepair. The new basketball court includes an asphalt foundation with proper surfacing, nets and backboards, fencing and outdoor lighting.
“Young people do better in the classroom when they have opportunities to build on their talents and passions in their neighbourhood," said Jobs and the Economy Minister Kevin Chief, who attended the opening on behalf of Minister Caldwell. “A chance to play on this amazing new court is a chance for them to be proud of who they are, where they’re from and to give back to their community.”
“With this new court we will be able to have tournaments that attract many youth to get involved in basketball,” said Denis Richard, president, Norquay Community Centre. “It’s a great way for everyone to get exercise and stay fit. The youth and the community appreciate this great gift enormously.”
In August 2014, the Manitoba government committed $140,000 to the project through the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program, a three-year, $7.5-million program that provides grants to support not-for-profit or city-owned community recreation facilities within Winnipeg.
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