44th Holiday Classic: A Weekend of Tradition, Talent, and Alumni Pride
The 44th edition of the Sun Youth Holiday Classic once again delivered a memorable weekend of high-level basketball, bringing together programs from Quebec, Ontario, and the United States. True to the tournament’s mission, the Classic served as a competitive showcase, a way of promoting Sun Youth’s mission and values, and a celebration of the role sport plays in youth development—creating opportunities, building character, and opening doors for young athletes.
An Event Rooted in Tradition
A defining feature of this year’s Classic was the strong presence of returning programs and Sun Youth Hornets alumni. St. Thomas More, led by legendary coach Jere Quinn, continued a tradition spanning more than 20 years at the tournament. Winchendon made its first appearance as a program, while head coach Alex Popp returned to familiar ground, having previously brought other teams to the Classic.
Strong Local and Regional Presence
Local and regional programs once again played a central role. Cégep Jean-de-Brébeuf, past participant and co-host since 2021, featured Hornet alum Jessie Ritchie-McLean on the court and head coach Michael Chmielewski on the sidelines. Cégep de Sherbrooke continued its Holiday Classic presence since 2022 with another powerful outing, while Lennoxville Prep, involved since 2021, was led by Hornet alums Ibrahim and Djibril Ngom.
The Hornet Legacy
Several teams highlighted the lasting impact of Sun Youth’s basketball program. Helisis Prep, competing for the second consecutive year, featured head coach and Sun Youth Wall-of-Famer John Dangelas and players Andrew Dangelas, Don Mensah, Timothy Jeremiah, and Yakin Success, all former Hornets. Dawson D2 was guided by former Hornet and longtime program coordinator Rodney Skerritt, alongside ex-Hornet Graig Bryan Wafo Kouam.
Vanier D2 continued to rep Sun Youth ties with coaches Scott Mawhinney, Craig O’Brien, and Wall-of-Famer Ernie Rosa—all former coaches or Hornets—and players Lucas Ryan and Dzidula ‘Didou’ Marylight Sowadan on the roster.
The Hornet Legacy
Several teams highlighted the lasting impact of Sun Youth’s basketball program. Helisis Prep, competing for the second consecutive year, featured head coach and Sun Youth Wall-of-Famer John Dangelas and players Andrew Dangelas, Don Mensah, Timothy Jeremiah, and Yakin Success, all former Hornets. Dawson D2 was guided by former Hornet and longtime program coordinator Rodney Skerritt, alongside ex-Hornet Graig Bryan Wafo Kouam.
Vanier D2 continued to rep Sun Youth ties with coaches Scott Mawhinney, Craig O’Brien, and Wall-of-Famer Ernie Rosa—all former coaches or Hornets—and players Lucas Ryan and Dzidula ‘Didou’ Marylight Sowadan on the roster.
An Event Rooted in Tradition
A defining feature of this year’s Classic was the strong presence of returning programs and Sun Youth Hornets alumni. St. Thomas More, led by legendary coach Jere Quinn, continued a tradition spanning more than 20 years at the tournament. Winchendon made its first appearance as a program, while head coach Alex Popp returned to familiar ground, having previously brought other teams to the Classic.
New Faces, Old Friends
The tournament also welcomed new and returning programs. CEGEP Limoilou participated for the first time, highlighted by a head-to-head clash with Vanier, while Ottawa Elite represented the evolution of the Ottawa Guardsmen, a program that competed in multiple past editions. Ottawa Prospects, led by Steve Huibers, returned once again, continuing a strong recent presence from the coach.
Longtime participant John Abbott College added a historical touch, recalling a finals appearance against Vermont Academy nearly a decade ago, featuring future NBA player Bruce Brown. St-Laurent also took part, with Fabiano Isidore, who got his start as a Hornet, now competing for the Express.
Thank You to Our Community
The success of the Holiday Classic would not be possible without the dedication and generosity of so many people behind the scenes. From contributors like the referee’s association MMBRA, Hotel Ruby Foo’s, Marathon Souvlaki on Decarie Boulevard, Cantine Dukana, Intermarche Lagoria; a host of volunteer photographers and videographers; a record number of volunteers from within the sports programs including athletes, coaches, and parents; and those others who came by to help and support: Sun Youth extends its sincere thanks to all those whose time, energy, and commitment helped ensure a smooth and welcoming tournament for everyone involved. We also wish to warmly thank Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf and École Secondaire Saint-Laurent for graciously hosting the games and their support of youth sport and community initiatives.
More Than Basketball
More than a sporting event, the Holiday Classic remains a meeting point of generations—where tradition, opportunity, and community intersect. With strong competition, meaningful reunions, and emerging talent on display, the 44th edition once again reinforced why the Holiday Classic continues to be a cornerstone event for Sun Youth and the broader basketball community.
