Even with just one starter returning from last year’s squad, the Quadruple-A Mouat Hawks have gotten off the ground quickly this season.
On Friday, the Hawks defeated North Surrey 87-84 to win the annual Hawkball Tournament.
Point guard Jimmy Litt is the only senior starter for the Hawks this year. The rest of the starting lineup is made up of a talented crop of Grade 11s: shooting guard Jass Singh, small forward Joel Klammer, power forward Jordyn Sekhon and centre Mandave Dhadda.
North Surrey started quickly in the Hawkball title game with a 16-0 run, but the young Mouat squad didn’t wilt. “The guys never got discouraged. I’m really impressed by their character,” said coach Trevor Pirdie.
Equally impressive was the play of Singh, who nailed eight three-pointers in the final and was named the tournament MVP.
Two weeks ago the Hawks defeated crosstown rival Abby Panthers in the final of the APD City Basketball Tournament 86-62.
“Hopefully it will continue,” said Pirdie about the strong start to the season.
The Hawks play MEI in league action on Jan. 6.