WATERLOO, Ont. - The Laurier Ball-Stars tournament returned to the Athletic Complex Gym in a big way this past weekend.

Back for its fourth year after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic and associated restrictions, the event is an inclusive school-based life-skills and basketball program designed to support local youth in building their mental and physical fitness. 

Over 700 elementary school-aged children from grades four through six attended this year's two-day tournament on May 6 and 7. Both the Waterloo Region District School Board and Waterloo Catholic District School Boards were represented by a combined 27 schools.

"This weekend is all about building healthy brains, bodies, and community," said event founder Kat Katsambrokos, who has managed the tournament since its inception. 

Working alongside Laurier's manager of men's basketball operations and head coach Justin Serresse, Katsambrokos explained how "no basketball skills are required, just an interest to learn and play within a team dynamic."

A food drive over the two days also provided 580 meals to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region for individuals in need.

"The energy was incredible the whole weekend. Kat did a fantastic job and deserves a lot of the credit for doing most of the heavy lifting in getting this event off the ground again," said Serresse. "Our student-athletes were also a big help in showcasing what Laurier's all about in terms of creating an inclusive and fun environment."