March Madness Basketball
Staff Writer, OMN

The first Annual Canadian Muslim Athletic Association (CMAA) basketball tournament attracted approximately 60 players, 17 years and over, from Ottawa and Montreal.  

This was the first of such tournaments in Ottawa. The organizers was pleased with the turnout and the enthusiasm of the players who come from various ethnic backgrounds in the Muslim community.

Ali Bokhari, one the event coordinators and one of the founders of the CMAA, commented that the event was very successful and that the purpose of the  Association  is to bring the Muslim youths in the Ottawa community together.

Tournament participants commented that this sports event was the best organized of all the others they have attended.   Observing the players throughout the tournament, one can see the comraderie and team spirit.

Throughout this event, it was a pleasure to observe youths having fun while exhibiting remarkable behavior consistent with Islamic values and ethics.  Allahu Akbar could be heard as players show their appreciation of other players fancy moves on the court.

The CMAA intends to hold other sports events and to attract more youths at their regular events throughout the year.   Every Saturday students, mostly from high schools, gather to play basketball.   As spring and summer approach, there is great anticipation to get involved in outdoor activities.

Late in the evening after the finals was played in which Team Donald beat Team Gang Gey Sta in overtime, the participants and organizers relaxed in a party room to congratulate the team winners and other award recipients over pizza, chicken, and refreshments.

In addition to medals, the winning team was given a free dinner at Crispy's.  Crispy's sponsored the meal for the championship team.

Great show! Looking forward to next year's tournament.
 

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