In the final game of their season, the junior Mariners from Digby Regional High School got to experience the big court Saturday at Acadia University, taking on Annapolis Royal Regional Academy in the third annual Big League exhibition game.
Digby won the match 57-34 to end the Mariners season with a 2-10 record. Anthony Hakim led the Mariners with 17, while Brandon Melanson and Dustin Howard added 12 each, and Aaron Titus netted eight. Alex Simms chipped in four and Drew Sabean and Daniel Brophy had two apiece.
Coach Christine Kelly said it was a great experience for both teams to play in the Acadia gym and then sit back to take in two university games.
“For the Mariners, being at Acadia was the highlight of their season,” said Kelly. “The team has been looking forward to this all winter and what a way to finish off.”
Mike Bartlett, coach of the senior Mariners, and Acadia Axemen coach Les Berry began the annual event three years ago as a way to give back to the community of Annapolis where they attended school.
“Head coach Les Berry and his Axemen host the event,” said Bartlett. “The boys meet the Axemen who are there to run the clock, keep the score sheet and cheer and encourage the teams as they play.”
“The Axemen have played an important role in the junior boys’ teams. Acadia has come to Digby for basketball camps and last fall Acadia played an exhibition game against Ryerson for a capacity crowd in our gym.”
“We hope this Acadia connection will encourage the boys to continue playing basketball and do well in school”
After the morning game, both teams and their parents were given passes to watch the two afternoon games.
This year Acadia played host to the UPEI men’s and women’s teams. The Axemen won 77-58 while the Axewomen lost 71-38 to wrap up their regular season.
