Niagara River Lions Partner with St. Catharines CYO Basketball Association to Launch Exclusive Drop-In Sessions with Team Captain Kimbal Mackenzie
St. Catharines, ON – The Niagara River Lions are proud to announce a new partnership with St. Catharines CYO Basketball Association, offering young athletes a unique opportunity to learn directly from River Lions team captain, Kimbal Mackenzie.
Beginning in October, members of St. Catharines CYO Basketball Assoication will have exclusive access to bi-weekly Sunday drop-in sessions with team captain Kimbal Mackenzie, held at Ridley College through December. These sessions will give players the opportunity to develop their basketball skills and gain leadership insights from Mackenzie, who earned a Division 1 scholarship at Bucknell University, has competed professionally in Europe, represented the Great Britain National Team, and is now a two-time Canadian Elite Basketball League Champion.

The drop-in sessions will be split into two age groups to ensure players receive development suited to their skill level. Session 1 will run from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. for boys and girls in Grades 2–4, followed by Session 2 from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. for boys and girls in Grades 5–8.
Participation requires pre-registration and a $10 donation per session, with all proceeds supporting the River Lions’ Stubs for Cubs initiative, which provides tickets and opportunities for local youth to attend River Lions home games.
“We’re thrilled to formalize a partnership with St. Catharines CYO Basketball Association and provide this unique opportunity to Rebels players,” said Michelle Biskup, President of the Niagara River Lions. “It’s a fantastic way to help grow the game in Niagara, giving young athletes access to professional mentorship while fostering skill development and a love for basketball.”
“We’re super excited to team up with the Niagara River Lions and kick off something really special,” said Gerry Mcilhone, President of the St Catharines CYO Basketball Association club. “It’s an awesome chance to grow the game more here in Niagara—giving our players a chance to learn from the pros, build their skills, and continue to love the game of basketball even more.”
The drop-in sessions will take place each starting Sunday October 19,and run biweekly until December 14th. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required to secure a spot.
For registration details, please visit https://registration.teamsnap.com/form/39121
About the Niagara River Lions
The Niagara River Lions are one of the original six teams of the CEBL and the league's reigning back to back champions. Playing out of Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, the River Lions represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region while living up to the River Lions moniker of pride and strength of community. Visit
www.riverlions.ca for more information.
About CYO St. Catharines Basketball
The St Catharines Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) Basketball Association is committed to providing boys and girls in our community with the positive and enjoyable experience of learning and competing in the great sport of basketball. We believe that every person is important and deserves the respect and consideration of others. CYO operates House Leagues for players of various skill levels and experience. As well, CYO operates a Select Team Program, for players with advanced skill levels.
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