To the Editor:

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone that participated in our NBA Basketball program that recently concluded at R.D. Parker Collegiate.  Eight teams of students began the journey of our second season.  Since the beginning of November, two nights a week, students experienced the values of teamwork and dedication.  Every member of each team played the same amount of minutes every game to insure everyone got a chance to play.  The vast majority of students involved were those that would not be a part of our school's competing sports teams.  It was an opportunity to be a part of a team and to play every game.

  Thank you to Vale Inco, Thompson Crime Stoppers, and Mystery Lake Body Shop Auto Glass and Wheel Alignment Ltd. for their financial support of this venture.  Thank you to the coaches, which included teachers, members of the RCMP, and community members, for their leadership and commitment to our students.  Thank you to Paul Andersen from Shaw Cable TV for videotaping the semi-finals, and to the officials for their great job.  The school spirit from the students during the finals was exciting and respectful.

  Congratulations to the Miami Heat for winning this year's championship!  We look forward to season number three next year.  Happy holidays!

Robert Watt

Commissioner, NBA

R.D. Parker Collegiate