Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to stand and recognize an exciting national sports event in my riding. The Breton Education Centre in the town of New Waterford once again successfully hosted the annual Coal Bowl Basketball tournament last week.
High school students from across Canada compete annually in the Coal Bowl. This year's winner was St. Pat's High from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Our hon. colleague, the Minister for ACOA, also participated in this tournament many years ago. I can state that he can still hit the hoop.
Under the leadership and direction of Breton Education Centre principal, Jim Kavanaugh, and his executive, the Coal Bowl tournament has grown to become one of the elite high school basketball events in the country.
I would like to commend all the dedicated volunteers and sponsors for their commitment to making this event a great success in the past 22 years.
The spirit and hospitality of the good people of the town of New Waterford is evident everywhere one turns. I congratulate them on a job well done.