For many of the athletes on Kingsville’s Under-14 girls’ travel basketball team, last season was their very first introduction to competitive play. What began as a new challenge for most of the girls has quickly turned into a shared journey of growth, teamwork, and confidence-building.
Coaches say the players have developed their technical skills and shown a consistent commitment to sportsmanship—always carrying themselves with respect and “class” on the court, no matter the outcome.
Now in its second year under Manager and Head Coach Greg Driedger, the U14 team represents the continued expansion of Kingsville CLASS Basketball, a local non-profit dedicated to making high-level basketball accessible to youth in the community.
The coaching staff includes Assistant Coaches Melissa Prymack, Jeff Freeman, and Bob Lynch, each bringing their unique style and experience to the program while Team Manager, Laura Seabourne, is the steady hand that keeps it all moving smoothly.
The team practices several times a week at local facilities including Erie Migration, Essex District High School, and occasionally UMEI. These sessions focus on developing fundamentals, improving fitness, and encouraging the girls to push themselves outside of their comfort zones—an essential part of competing at the travel level.
Entry into the program is based on tryouts, a process Coach Driedger says helps ensure that each player is ready for the commitment and level of competition expected in the league.
While the U14 girls’ team continues to grow, Kingsville CLASS Basketball also offers opportunities for other athletes with their U12 girls’ team and U14 boys’ team.
A cornerstone of the organization is long-time volunteer and league founder Bob Lynch, who started the program many years ago with the simple goal of giving local kids a chance to play the sport he loves.
Lynch, 86, remains a loyal supporter, regularly attending games and offering encouragement to players and families alike. His leadership and dedication helped lay the foundation for the positive basketball culture Kingsville enjoys today.
Parents, players, and community members who wish to learn more or inquire about future tryouts can connect with the organization through the Kingsville CLASS Basketball Facebook page.
With growing interest and strong community backing, the future looks bright for youth basketball in Kingsville.
As a grandparent it gives me chills to see my granddaughter playing basketball! I was lucky enough to have coached the women’ s varsity at Brock University,and I know well how much time the whole staff dedicates to our kids!!!This is where Skill development and learning about team unity all starts! A program like our gives these girls a head start as they pursue their high school careers and maybe beyond. I just love the opportunity to watch, brag about and enjoy my granddaughter play sport!