A little more about Swaziland…
Termed the “Nation of Orphans,” Swaziland has been devastated by HIV/AIDS. This disease has decimated a generation of moms and dads. The children are literally left to themselves without means and cut off from family or community support, leaving them vulnerable and susceptible to malnutrition, disease, and abuse.
A little more about us… Matt & Amanda Opalko
In February 2009, Amanda had the privilege of traveling to Swaziland. There, she experienced Swazi culture first hand and knew she would never be the same again. Over the last several years, Matthew has traveled throughout the world coaching basketball clinics with Athletes in Action. His experiences have challenged him in profound ways and have inspired him to use the platform of sport to positively impact others.
A little more about the tournament…
In July, we will be traveling to Swaziland to work with several different care points. Care points are places where children can come together and access various services. They can receive care and support, a meal for the day, and some form of education. Many children are orphaned and vulnerable and are not able to attend formal school. Often, these care points are their only hope.
Education is a powerful tool to have in life. Education is our passion, which is why we are both teachers. We have high hopes for the Hoops for Swaziland Basketball Tournament. Our goal is to support children in Swaziland by donating all tournament entry fees to pay for their school fees.
What you need to know…
- Tournament entry fee is $150.00 per team
- Each team is guaranteed 3 games
- Men’s Open Division and Men’s High School Division
- The tournament will be held in MBCI’s Red and Blue Gym, 180 Riverton Avenue in Winnipeg
- Registration Deadline is May 15, 2010
For registration details contact Matt Opalko
mattopalko@hotmail.com
204.294.9515