Hoops for Hope Honours Student’s Legacy and Vision
The second annual Hoops for Hope held on April 23 raised approximately $12,000 for initiatives supported by the Olivia Rourke Foundation, including youth-led community projects.
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Hoops for Hope returned for a second year on Thursday, April 23 with a much bigger footprint, bringing together 20 boys’ and 16 girls’ student teams to compete in 3 x 3 basketball for a worthy cause.
Founded by Olivia Rourke, a Walkerton District Community School (WDCS) student who passed away in a tragic car accident last year, the tournament raises money for the foundation established in her honour. The Olivia Rourke Foundation funds initiatives aligned with Olivia’s vision, including youth-led community projects, supporting the advancement of women in sport, and raising money for cancer care and research.
Hoops for Hope 2026 wrapped up with approximately $12,000 raised, building on the success of last year’s inaugural event. In its first year, Hoops for Hope generated $10,000 in donations for local cancer care and research and supported the establishment of the Olivia Rourke Foundation.
A jampacked day of intense action saw both the Woodland girls’ and boys’ teams capture gold in their respective categories. Congratulations to these exceptional student athletes, along with all the participating teams who stepped onto the court to demonstrate grit, resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
New this year is the tournament’s official status as an OFSAA recognized regional event. Hosted by WDCS and Sacred Heart High School, school teams attended from as far away as Windsor, representing the CWOSSA, SCAA, SWOSSAA, and WOSSAA athletic associations.
Amid the fierce competition came an especially poignant moment during the afternoon when the action paused in the WDCS gym for remarks on behalf of the Rourke family delivered by Olivia’s parents, Jen and Dan, joined by sister Halle. Also representing her brother Keaton, partner Jude, and many relatives, the thankful and heartfelt message exemplified all that Olivia stood for while sharing the origins of her Hoops for Hope dream.
“While her life was far too short, the impact she made on those around her was extraordinary. This foundation exists to keep Olivia’s legacy alive by supporting students and causes that reflect the opportunities, values, and passions that helped shape the remarkable person she became.”
Attendees heard how Olivia was a natural encourager who urged others to try new things, step outside their comfort zones, and believe in themselves. The many leadership roles she assumed and wide range of athletics she participated in were highlighted as examples of her active involvement.
It was through her dream of attending Queen’s University to pursue business studies that the idea of organizing a 3 x 3 tournament started to take shape. With the original goal to recognize her mother’s fight against breast cancer, Olivia also saw an opportunity to support her university application. Blending two things that were incredibly important to her, basketball and her mother’s health battle, Hoops for Hope was born.
While Olivia was unable to see the event become a reality due to her untimely passing, her teachers, other WDCS staff, family, friends, and the Walkerton community continued with her vision, leading to the foundation’s establishment.
“Although Olivia is no longer with us, her spirit lives on through every life this foundation touches. Her legacy is one of joy, compassion, leadership, and encouragement—and it is our greatest honour to carry that forward.
“Olivia would be thrilled to be a part of today, to see so many young people together, having fun, playing basketball, and supporting one another. The energy today is truly what she was all about.”
The Rourkes also thanked friends, family, volunteers, athletes, coaches, and spectators for their participation. Special thanks were extended to this year’s event organizers, who include Vince Yenssen, Woodie Brown, Josh Bartlett, Michelle Mancell, Tanya Byers, Drew Bomhoff, Carrie Bujold, and Emma Winder. Jenna Yenssen was also acknowledged for organizing the Facebook auction that ran in conjunction with the tournament.
To learn more about Hoops for Hope and the Olivia Rourke Foundation, visit www.hopehoops.net and www.oliviarourke.ca.
Submitted by Bluewater District School Board
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