Pandemic restrictions wiped out a lot of basketball this spring and summer.
AAU seasons which see practices begin shortly after the high school season ends have been shortened considerably. Some organizations chose not to play altogether.
High school workouts? Gone, or severely limited. Recreation leagues? Also gone.
But from these cancellations a new league emerges; one that the organizer hopes brings back a bit of fun and competitive spirit to a summer that has lacked in both.
The Grand View Summer Basketball League begins play Wednesday, August 12 and will take place inside the newly opened Highlands Sports Complex.
Hayden Cook is the lead organize for the GVBL and an associated non-profit which will be better detailed in a coming story on LedeNews.com.
He’s an educator, an experienced coach at multiple level and a parent to athletes. He knows what’s been missed in the valley the last few months and wanted to give not only his kids, but others, a chance to stretch their court legs.
“These kids missed out on a lot of basketball opportunities between AAU season being cut short, all the high school activities that normally take place no longer being available to them,” Cook said. “And the recreation leagues in both Wheeling and St. Clairsville haven’t been able to play basketball.
“This gives them a chance to play in a competitive environment.”
Each team will consist of six players max, with a guaranteed six games per player.
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