News Summary

Southington is set to host its inaugural Summer Basketball Tournament on August 9 and 10, 2024. Organized by local high school coach Ed Quick, the tournament will feature 20 teams competing over two days, with college coaches monitoring talent. This event not only highlights local athletes but also aims to create future opportunities in the sport.

Southington Prepares for Its First-Ever Summer Basketball Tournament

Get ready, Southington! The town is buzzing with excitement as the inaugural Southington Summer Basketball Tournament is set to take place on August 9 and 10, 2024. This new event promises to be a game changer for local high school basketball teams, offering a platform for competition and attracting the eyes of college coaches from around the region.

What’s the Buzz?

Organized by Southington High School boys basketball coach Ed Quick, the tournament is gearing up to showcase not only the skill of local athletes but also to pave the way for future summer competitions. As of now, 20 teams have already signed up to participate, including the host team, Southington High. The invitation is open, and there’s growing interest even among girls’ teams, leading to plans for a possible separate division in the future.

This tournament is particularly exciting given the recent changes in summer coaching rules by the CIAC. Starting in 2024, coaches can now engage with their teams on two days a week for a total of four hours through various games and practices. It’s a fantastic opportunity for players to hone their skills during the summer months while also being evaluated by college scouts.

The Tournament Schedule

Mark your calendars! The tournament will feature a bustling atmosphere with 10 games on Friday and another 10 games on Saturday, running from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on both days. Each team will play one game each day, with the ambitious goal of expanding to four games per team in future tournaments. With the total expected to amount to 12 hours of basketball over the weekend, players and fans alike can anticipate a thrilling showcase of talent.

Participating teams include notable high schools such as Bristol Eastern, Daniel Hand, E.O. Smith, and a variety of others from nearby districts, ensuring a diverse match-up of skills and competition levels. Each team pays a fee of $250 to be part of this exciting event.

College Coaches on the Horizon

What makes this tournament even more thrilling is the participation of college coaches from a number of respected institutions, including Eastern, Western and Southern Connecticut State, Trinity, and many more. These coaches are always on the lookout for rising stars, and this tournament provides an excellent opportunity for players to showcase their talent and possibly attract attention for future recruitment.

Facilities and Additional Plans

To ensure a smooth experience, Southington High’s gym floor will be freshly resurfaced before the tournament kicks off. The West Gym at Southington High will also be utilized for games, and if the need arises for more space, there are contingency plans to host games at locations such as DePaolo Middle School, Derynoski Elementary School, or even the Bristol Armory.

Looking ahead, Coach Quick envisions a girls’ division to feature approximately 16-20 teams, acknowledging the growing enthusiasm among female athletes in the sport.

Who Can Join?

It’s essential to note that only high school teams can participate in the tournament. However, incoming freshmen are welcome, while seniors graduating in 2025 will not be eligible to compete. This ensures a level playing field focused on young talent with lots of potential.

Final Thoughts

The Southington Summer Basketball Tournament is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of teamwork, skills, and the vibrant community spirit of Southington. As players hit the courts this August, they take with them not only the love of the game but also opportunities for future growth and college recruitment. It’s time to cheer on the players and celebrate the joy of basketball in our town!

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