4-Corners tournament

Photos by Mike Maloney/London Community News/Twitter: mdmaloneyphoto The Carling Heights Optimist Community Centre was a hive of activity as more than 90 ball players from across the region dropped by to take part in the Special Olympics Ontario, 4-Corners Youth Basketball regional qualifying tournament on Thursday (Oct. 25). A total of 20 teams representing nine different schools competed in the tournament playing in a three-on-three format. The two teams that come out on top at the end of the day advance to the championship finals in May of 2013. Coinciding with the tournament was the start of Be A Fan Week, an occasion created to honour everyone who make the Special Olympics possible including athletes, volunteers and in particular, members of the law enforcement community. Representing London Police Service at the opening ceremonies, Chief Brad Duncan said police have been associated with the Special Olympics movement since its beginning 25 years ago. “We have been involved since the inception,” said Duncan. “ You know, we have seen the need in our community and we rose to the challenge.” He used the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics as an example, which has been a huge fundraiser for the organization in the province, as well as the work local police do right here in London with the kids on a day-to-day basis. “We’ve been engaged with our Special Olympics community simply because it’s part of our great community,” said Duncan. Scott Mitchell is the Special Olympics Ontario/London ambassador to the event. On hand for the openings ceremonies, Mitchell felt it was going to be a fun day and wanted to thank their biggest fans, the men and women of the London Police Service. Find us on Facebook: London Community News [gallery columns="4"]