More schools are going to be able to participate in the junior high athletic scene for Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS), Elk Island Catholic Schools (EICS) and New Horizons School.
Starting in the fall, they are going to expand their league from its current 16-member schools to 22-member schools. The schools will compete in seven sports including cross country running, volleyball, basketball, team handball, badminton, golf, and track and field.
The new schools joining are St. Theresa, St. John Paul II, École Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Holy Redeemer, St. Luke and New Horizons.
“With the addition of six new schools next season, we’re better positioned to offer a balanced and competitive athletic experience to all our athletes — with a strong focus on development and learning the sports we all love. And of course, it will add a lot of fun!” said Darren Anderson, EIPS junior high athletic coordinator.
Going forward, the league will be called the Elk Island Junior High Athletic Association, to reflect the growth and expansion into different divisions. Costs will be shared on a per capita basis among all member schools so that school sports remain an affordable option for all.
"We’re excited to join the Elk Island Junior High Athletic Association. The new athletic association will give student-athletes an opportunity to compete in a variety of different schools and communities,” says Ed Kucy, Principal, Holy Redeemer Catholic School. “Unifying our athletics leagues will only enhance the competitive level and exposure, building relationships and memories on and off the court that will last a lifetime."
With the new members joining, there should be over 5,000 local student-athletes participating in the league next school year.