STEVE ATKIN TO RETURN AS HEAD COACH OF NIAGARA MEN'S BASKETBALL

WELLAND, Ont. - The Niagara college Department of Athletics & Recreation is proud to announce the contract renewal of men's basketball head coach Steve Atkin. Coach Atkin has been with the Niagara College men's basketball program since the 2008 season.

A native of Pelham, Ont., Atkin enjoyed a standout playing career at Simon Fraser University, the University of Calgary, and the University of Waterloo. During his post-secondary playing career Atkin participated in three CIS championships. Atkin also played four years with the Canadian men's basketball national team program and competed in a World Championship, a Pan-American Games, and a Commonwealth Games.

Atkin has served as head coach of the Niagara College Knights men's basketball Program since 2010. During his tenure, he has led the team to a record of 35-21 and three consecutive appearances in the OCAA playoffs. Niagara College Manager of Athletics & Recreation Matthew Davies commented "we are very excited to have Coach Atkin back at the helm of the men's basketball program."

Coach Atkin was equally excited about the opportunity to return. "There's a real feeling of excitement around Niagara College. I see the administration at the institution having a true vision and I look forward to being a part of that. When walking around both campuses professors go out of their way to say hello and talk to you. You can really feel the excellent atmosphere, it's palpable."

Davies continued "the team has been very successful over the past few years, and his staff has done a tremendous job recruiting for this upcoming season."

Coach Atkin continued "we've got a solid returning core group of players, and with the athletes that have chosen to attend Niagara College starting in September, we will be competitive at the highest level in the CCAA."

Heading into the summer off-season, the men's basketball program is set to help lead three sections of the annual Niagara Kids' College summer camp program and moving forward Coach Atkin is looking forward to being given the opportunity to help expand the presence of Niagara College Athletics & Recreation in the local community.

"The local community has given us tremendous support over the years, and working and volunteering in the community is an invaluable opportunity for our student-athletes. I'm excited for how our summer camp program looks this year."

For more information regarding the Niagara Kids' College summer camp program please visit www.niagaracollege.ca/kidscollege.

Source: Niagara College