Jefferson Hagen, MacEwan Athletics
EDMONTON – Just a few days after officially starting as the new head coach of the Griffins men's basketball program, Mike Connolly has his first recruit.
Strathcona Christian product Colton Halbersma will join the program for the 2019-20 Canada West season, Connolly announced on Thursday.
"Colton is a tough kid, who excels both on the court and in the classroom," said Connolly of the incoming MacEwan Commerce student-athlete. "The future of the MacEwan Griffins basketball program is in good hands with the quality of recruit we have in Colton."
The 6-foot-2 guard recently led Strathcona Christian to a bronze medal at the 3A provincials and was named an Edmonton city all-star. He further honed his skills with the Good Hoops Basketball Club.
"Colton is an athletic, hard-nosed kid, whose work ethic and defensive abilities will allow him to play in our system and thrive," said Connolly.
Connolly, who was NAIT's head coach for the past six seasons, has had his eye on Halbersma for a while, but really got a firsthand look at his potential when he worked out with the Ooks last summer.
"At that point, one could see Colton had an incredible work ethic and toughness that is needed to succeed at the next level," he explained. "Then when I joined MacEwan, he was on their recruiting list and I knew he had to be one of the first guys we recruited to the program."
Halbersma is somewhat returning home as he played for the Junior Griffins basketball club at the U15 level.