The Niagara College women's basketball program is proud to announce the addition of former Canadian Junior National team standout Bridget Atkinson. Atkinson is an impact level point guard that brings the Knights a playing pedigree that includes, U Sports rookie of the year, OUA second team all-star, and a Team Ontario selection.
"Nothing beats playing in front of your friends and family, and playing locally means just that. It's a great opportunity to represent my home town and play the game I love" said Atkinson during a meet and greet in the Niagara College Welland campus athletic centre. "Niagara's style of play is something I am very excited to be a part of, and I can't wait to grow my game while playing for Coach Mike."
The five-foot-seven native of Welland honed her skills competing for the Centennial Cougars and as a member of the Niagara Juel program. Atkinson will enroll in the Niagara College border security program. She joins the Knights having previously spent seasons with the Guelph Gryphons and Brock Badgers.
"In the locker room following our bronze medal game there was a great deal of positivity despite the outcome" said Niagara College women's basketball head coach Mike Beccaria. "The team was very excited about what we had accomplished, while also being very excited about where we are going. Bridget is an outstanding player who will blend very well with our returning players and will certainly help us in our quest to be a medal winning team in the OCAA."
"On the court my goal is to win a championship" continued Atkinson. "While not playing, I'm looking to excel in my program and get a job in my field."
Atkinson will join a Knights women's basketball program that is coming of a season that saw the team capture a program best 14 wins, before losing in heartbreaking fashion in the OCAA bronze medal game.