One of the most tangible examples of the impact of the Together We Rise initiative can be seen in the work of Elijah, the Bisons' full-time assistant coach position made possible by the generosity of alumni donors.
Their investment is helping provide year-round player development, mentoring, and coaching support while strengthening the future of Manitoba Bisons basketball.
It has been a busy and rewarding off-season for Elijah, whose passion for developing players continues to create opportunities both locally and nationally.
In May, Elijah travelled to Portugal as a head coach with the Eurobasket Pro Tours program. From May 10-21, he led a team of fourth- and fifth-year Canadian university athletes from across the country, including Manitoba Bisons Sam Jensen, in four exhibition games against professional clubs from Portugal's second and third divisions. The tour provided Canadian athletes with valuable exposure and an opportunity to earn professional contracts overseas. Jensen was the team's leading scorer, averaging 17 points per game, as the Canadians completed a perfect 4-0 trip.
If you’re interested, here are two articles highlighting the Canadian EuroBasket Tour in Portugal:
Game 1 and 2 Recap
Canadian Eurobasket Tour Starts with 2 wins v Queluz, GDAS
Game 3 and 4 Recap
https://www.eurobasket.com/Portugal/news/991702/Canadian-Eurobasket-Team-Finishes-Perfect-Trip-in-Portugal
Back home, Elijah's 2011 Junior Bison team capped off an outstanding season with a runner-up finish at the Basketball Manitoba Club Championships. Along the way, the team captured both the Jr. Bison Tournament and WYBA Tournament titles and also earned a finalist berth at the Peg City Showcase.
Club Championship finalists Jr Bisons
Elijah and fellow Bison coach Keenan Benaroch are currently serving as assistant coaches with Manitoba's U17 provincial team, which will compete at the national championships from August 2-9.
Click here for Elijah’’s bio.
Elijah Lostracco, Manitoba’s Male U17 Assistant Coach
While these accomplishments have been rewarding, the main focus remains the Manitoba Bisons program. Elijah continues to spend five to six days a week in the gym, leading skill sessions, small-group workouts, and helping coordinate summer open gyms.
Among the players who have stood out this summer are Taven Vigilance and Dante Dyck, both of whom have impressed with their commitment and work ethic on the court and in the weight room.
Men’s Basketball small group workout - Coach Lostracco working with Dante Dyck
The impact of alumni support extends far beyond a single season.
Through the Together We Rise initiative and the many available scholarships, donors are directly providing the resources and leadership that develop student-athletes and strengthen a championship culture for years to come.
Thank you to all who have contributed.