Minister Bowleg opens 25th annual Thanksgiving Basketball Classic in Grand Bahama

Minister Bowleg opens 25th annual Thanksgiving Basketball Classic in Grand Bahama

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas -- Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg says the William Dale Burns Basketball Classic exemplifies the values Bahamian parents hope to instill in their young children -- hard work, fair play, respect and gratitude.

"This tournament teaches us that the game is not just about the score, but about the lessons learned in striving towards a goal," added Minister Bowleg, during his remarks at the opening ceremony of the 2024 William Dale Burns Basketball Classic, November 27, 2024 on the grounds of Tabernacle Baptist Academy, host of the tournament.

This year's tournament has attracted two high schools from Georgia - Dutchtown High School and Columbia High School -- and one school from Nassau, R.M.Bailey Pacers. Local schools competing in the tournament include Jack Hayward High, St. Georges High, Sunland Baptist, Bishop Michael Eldon High School and Tabernacle Baptist Academy. The tournament, being played at St. Georges High School gymnasium, runs November 28 through November 30, 2024.

Minister Bowleg noted that the importance of basketball tournaments like the William Dalle Basketball Classic extends far beyond the hard work players and coaches put in. At its core, he said the tournament serves as a platform for growth, unity and inspiration.

"Firstly, this tournament serves as an unparalleled opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talents," said Minister Bowleg. "It is here where dreams are kindled and nurtured. Whether it's a dream of earning a scholarship, excelling at the collegiate level or developing in character to succeed off the court. Every game played here is a step towards personal and collective growth.

"Secondly, these classics foster a sense of community. Each Thanksgiving, teams from across regions come together not just to compete, but to connect. Players meet players from different backgrounds. Communities rally to support their teams and families gather to create lasting memories.

"In a world where division often dominates, this tournament reminds us of the power of unity."

Minister Bowleg pointed out that the William Dale Burns Basketball Classic was established in 1999 through the visionary leadership of Coach Norris Bain and the late Dale Burns. At that time the tournament was famously known as the Tabernacle Basketball Classic. Since its inception, Minister Bowleg said the tournament has grown into a cherished tradition that is so much more than just a basketball competition.

Minister Bowleg said on Wednesday, that the opening of the tournament was a part of celebrating 25 years of excellence, camaraderie and a shared purpose. He gave honor to the legacy of both Dale Burns and Norris Bain, two men whose passion for basketball and commitment to youth development transformed the event into what it is today.

"As we reflect on the past twenty-five years, let us also look forward to the future," added Minister Bowleg.

"The goals of this tournament remain as relevant today as they were in 1999. To provide a platform for youth to excel, to cultivate sportsmanship and respect, on and off the court. To strengthen the bonds of a community.

"To the players who are participating in this year's tournament, remember that this tournament is a stage for you to shine. It is a place for you to represent not just your school, but your character.

"To the fans, your support fuels these athletes. To the organizers, volunteers and supporters who make this event possible every year, thank you for your dedication and for keeping this dream alive."

BOWLEG OPENS TOURNAMENT - Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg was the keynote speaker at the opening ceremonies of the William Dale Burns Basketball Classic on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 on the grounds of the Tabernacle Baptist Academy.

VISITING TEAM - Players from Dutchtown High School attending the opening ceremonies for the 2024 William Dale Burns Basketball Classic.

TABBY JUNKANOO - Opening ceremonies at the 2024 William Dale Burns Basketball Classic featured a cultural show by students of Tabernacle Baptist Academy. They ended the opening ceremonies with a Junkanoo rush-out.

(BIS Photos/Andrew Miller)