Boomer the Badger meets some of the many elementary school students on hand for the Badgers vs. Bullying event Thursday, Oct. 12.More than 900 kids packed Bob Davis Gymnasium Thursday as the Brock Badgers men’s basketball team hosted its third annual Badgers vs. Bullying outreach event for elementary students in Grades 6 through 8.
The guest speakers included Brock men’s basketball head coach Charles Kissi, Henley Honda owner Alex Digenis, Niagara River Lions player Joe Rocca and Brock Vice-President, Administration Brian Hutchings all shared their views on the social topic of bullying and how to make a difference.
“I was very happy and proud to be a part of today’s event,” said Kissi. “Our University and in particular Brock Sports have a very important responsibility to not only bring this great community together but also lend our voices to various social issues.”
Digenis said Thursday’s event was “humbling.”
“Anytime Brock University shares its knowledge and resources with the community we are all better for it,” he said. “Bullying can only be hindered or stopped if the bystanders, the witnesses put away their phones and help their friends out.
“Young people today have to decide if sitting on the sidelines as a witness is how they want to behave when their friends are being harmed.”
On the court, the Badgers defeated the Redeemer Royals 107-69 in an exhibition game held in front of the massive crowd.
Brock led 24-18 after one quarter and held a 50-30 lead at the half. In the third quarter, the Badgers went on a 13-4 run in the opening three minutes to go up 63-34, on route to their fifth victory of the preseason.
The Badgers had three players in double figures led by Cassidy Ryan who finished with a game-high 24 points going 9-for-12 from the field and 3-for-4 from beyond the arc. He also pulled down six boards and added three assists. Dani Elgadi contributed with 19 points and five rebounds while Johneil Simpson added 16 points and four assists.
Redeemer was led by Rayvon Higdon who recorded 10 points and five rebounds in the loss.
Next up on the Badgers men’s basketball schedule, the team will host the RBC Classic Oct. 20-22. Tickets will go on sale Oct. 19 at the Walker Sports Complex Welcome Desk.
