Hips 'n' Hustle Basketball League History
My
name is Rose Kovacs, and I'm the league's founder/convenor. I'm
here to tell you about the history of my league, now going on 19 years.
The need for a women's basketball league in Guelph
always existed, but didn't really present itself to me clearly
until I questioned a fellow teaching staff member at Willow Road
School 13 years ago. Doug Taylor (most people know him as "Hawk")
ran the local youth Hoops'n'Hustle and the men's Fatman's League.
I was complaining to him that there was no opportunity for women
to play, and why didn't he have a portion of the league for women,
etc etc. His response was "Ah quit whining and start your
own league!"
And that was it! I thought yeah, why not? I have two strong motivations:
1. I can't back down from a challenge
2. I really wanted to play basketball!
So...the summer of 1992, Hips'n'Hustle League
of Ladies' Basketball was born. My philosophy for the league was
simple. I wanted to create a basketball league where women of all
ages (over 20) at all levels of expertise and experience could
play together. It would be structured so that teams would be organized
with an even distribution of ages and talent, thus allowing for
friendly competition.
We've had our growing pains, but the league has
survived 19 years starting with 4 teams in 1992, gradually working
up to 8 teams. We traditionally play Wednesday nights. The quality
of basketball over the years has improved while the league has
maintained it's basic philosophy. The ladies enjoy the game, get
their exercise, while having fun and making new friendships.
I appreciate the support of many members who have
been with the league for many years. They have helped to maintain
the league standards which contributes to its success. I look forward
to another year of great basketball.
Rose Kovacs
(Creator, organizer and convener)
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