Community service is an integral part of Niagara College Athletics and Recreation, with many of our student-athletes regularly committing to give back to the Niagara community.  The student-athlete leadership team is a student-athlete driven initiative designed to provide current student-athletes with an opportunity to have a voice in the Niagara College intercollegiate athletics program.  The Knights Chivalry program, developed by the student-athlete leadership team, is a program that immerses Niagara College students-athletes, coaches and staff members in the community. 

The Knights Chivalry program formally began in November 2014, when the men's and women's volleyball programs started a winter clothing drive in support of the Central Community Church in St. Catharines and continued with the Knights basketball programs hosting a Holiday toy drive in support of the Welland Hope Centre..  

On January 31, when the Knights play host to Cambrian College, the women's basketball program will once again be teaming up with the Hope Centre of Welland, to raise money for the 4th annual Julia's Hope Cup.  The Knights will be accepting donations in support of this great cause at the gate, with the department of athletics and recreation committed to matching all donations dollar for dollar.  

"We continue to work with the Hope Centre because it's a great organization that really supports the Welland community," said fourth-year women's basketball co-captain Miranda Ross.  

Before their game against Cambrian, the women's basketball team will also be holding a basketball clinic for players from the Pelham Panthers and St. Catharines Rebels U10 basketball team.  During the announcement of the starting lineups, the youth players will accompany the varsity Knights onto the court for introductions and the singing of our national anthem.  At half time, the Panthers and Rebels will partake in a scrimmage on the main court.  

"Sport teaches teamwork, discipline, and work ethic; valuable skills that can be applied to everyday life," added Miranda Ross.  "Sport, not just exercise, gives a child more than just physical well-being; it contributes to a child's development both psychologically and socially.  This is why we chose to run this clinic."

Those who donate at least $1 to Julia's Hope, will be given a ticket and entered into a draw for a Niagara College #knightsllife prize giveaway.