Four Familiar Athletes Suit Up
April 11, 2009 - International Basketball League (IBL)
Edmonton Energy News Release
Edmonton - Four familiar athletes will suit up this year for the Edmonton Energy of the International Basketball League.
"These are our first signings and there will be more in a few days," general manager-coach Paul Sir said as he named former University of Alberta standouts Alex Steele and Andrew Parker, along with Eastglen High School grad J.R. Patrick and Antwon Mills.
Patrick, a graduate of Santa Clara University -- same school where Phoenix Suns guard Steve Nash developed his skills -- has a long professional record. Former Bears captain Steele (2007-08 Canada West men's basketball MVP) played alongside Mills and Parker last season with the now-defunct Edmonton Chill.
"This excellent group is part of what we need to build this team to the level we require," Sir said. "The Energy will have height, size and athleticism. Our athletes can shoot the ball, get to the basket, rebound and defend.
"All of our players will bring the positive attitude we've seen from them in other circumstances."
Sir also announced a one-day open tryout camp, to be held April 11 at Louis St. Laurent High School. Three days later, training camp will begin. "It's open to anyone," Sir said. "Many teams have success with walk-ons, and there's no reason it couldn't happen with us."
Louis St. Laurent coach Darrell Cleave and Peter Sambu, former leader of the SAIT Trojans and Lakeland Rustlers of the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference, have signed as Sir's assistant coaches for the 2009 season. "Also, Todd Warnick, coach of the Concordia Thunder in ACAC women's hoops, is returning as an assistant."
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Contact Paul Sir, Head Coach and General Manager 780.819.4667
Chad Butler Business Manager 780.989.9980
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- Four Familiar Athletes Suit Up - Edmonton Energy
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