City councillor Renaldo Agostino tosses the ball for a ceremonial tip-off between Hospice Windsor-Essex executive director Katharen Bortolin and Angela Maggio of the W.E. Care for Kids board of directors. The two charities are the beneficiaries of proceeds from the Battle at the Plaza basketball tournament coming in August to the Windsor waterfront.
The University of Windsor and its alumni association are proud to be the presenting sponsor of the inaugural Battle 519 tournament, UWindsor president Rob Gordon said at an official announcement Wednesday at centre court of the triple gym in the Toldo Lancer Centre.
The “Battle at the Plaza” three-on-three basketball tournament, Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 at Windsor’s riverfront Festival Plaza, will benefit the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County and W.E. Care for Kids. Organizers predict a heart-racing competition that will draw hundreds of players and fans over the Labour Day weekend to share their love of basketball.
“This event transcends basketball; it brings people together and underscores our University’s strategic commitment to fostering a harmonious community,” Dr. Gordon said. “Forging connections and uniting our diverse Windsor population, the impact of this tournament will extend far beyond the basketball courts.”
Manny Pangilinan, president of Battle Canada, the non-profit organizing body, promises an unforgettable experience for all involved.
“We’re thrilled to bring this exciting event to Windsor,” he said. “Battle 519 will transform Festival Plaza into an outdoor basketball wonderland. Twenty-six teams comprising four different divisions will compete over the three-day weekend. Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in local food truck delectables and explore unique offerings from pop-up restaurants and retail vendors to live music and entertainment.”
Pangilinan is looking for additional sponsors, vendors, and donations. To get involved, email windsor@battlecanada.ca or operations@battlecanada.ca.