March 19, 2015 – Toronto – Department of Canadian Heritage
The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Government of Canada’s 2014–15 support for Canada Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball Canada, the sports’ governing bodies in this country. This funding, totalling more than $6.1 million, is being delivered through three funding programs designed to support the national sport organizations, their high-performance athletes and the hosting of international events in Canada.
“Basketball’s history is rooted in Canada, and it’s wonderful to see the sport thriving in our country. We are very proud to support Canada Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball Canada in the great work they do in promoting these sports all across our country, from local courts to the highest levels of performance. I am especially excited to watch our Canadian teams compete this summer at the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan Am Games in Toronto, where they will get to enjoy home court advantage and have thousands of fans cheering them on with every shot.”
—The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport)
“We are very fortunate to have excellent support from Sport Canada and the Government of Canada. With this funding we are able to provide programs for youth to learn to play basketball, and support our national teams as they represent Canada on the international stage.”
—Michele O’Keefe, Executive Director, Canada Basketball
“The Government of Canada is a tremendous partner whose support makes it possible for Wheelchair Basketball Canada to realize our vision of being a world leader in the sport from grassroots to high performance. With the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan Am Games in Toronto, we are excited for all Canadians to be able to experience our sport at the highest level and join us in cheering on Canada’s national teams.”
—Wendy Gittens, Executive Director, Wheelchair Basketball Canada
Robert Lynch
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Bal Gosal, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
robert.lynch@sports.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
