In an exciting development, a talented basketball player from Summerland has been selected as an alternate for the U15 Team BC. Mateo Ducheck, along with Liam Reid from Penticton, participated in the U15 Team BC camp held at Collingwood Secondary School in West Vancouver from April 12 to 14. Both of them are proud members of Lake City Basketball’s U15 team, which is based in Penticton.
Chris Terris, the director of Lake City Basketball, expressed his delight at Mateo’s selection as an alternate. With 95 players in attendance at the camp, it is truly remarkable for a player from outside the Lower Mainland or Victoria to be chosen as one of the top 12. Moreover, Dezi Ducheck, another promising talent from Summerland, attended the U17 camp held from April 5 to 7. Dezi, who is Mateo’s brother, has been a key member of the Lake City Elite 17 team for the past two years.
Spencer McKay, the coach of Lake City Elite 17, shared his pride in the three boys, emphasizing the confidence they have brought back from the camp. This confidence not only benefits them but also has a positive impact on their teammates and the younger players in the program, inspiring them to dream bigger.
Established in 2016 by Dustin Hyde and Chris Terris, Lake City Basketball aims to nurture the development and popularity of basketball in the South Okanagan. The club currently operates 10 teams, including three girls’ teams, marking a significant step forward in promoting female participation since before the COVID-19 pandemic. The increasing number of players trying out for the club’s teams, from 118 in 2023 to 180 in 2024, attests to the growing popularity and success of the program.
Additionally, Lake City Basketball runs three youth leagues in Penticton catering to players from Grade 2 to Grade 10, and operates two skills academies in Oliver. Chris Terris shared his optimism, stating that creating more opportunities for kids has led to the thriving of players and teams in their communities.
The news of Mateo Ducheck’s achievement is indeed something to celebrate. It speaks volumes about the talent and potential that young athletes in the region possess. As they continue to hone their skills, we can expect to see more success stories emerge from the South Okanagan’s burgeoning basketball scene.