The Sanford Collegiate Sabres varsity girls basketball team is making a strong case as one of the top programs in Zone 4 AAA this season, rolling through January and early February with a string of tournament championships and decisive league wins.
Most recently, the Sabres captured the College Sturgeon Heights HIT Tournament title this past weekend, defeating the host Sturgeon Heights Huskies 58–45 in the championship game. Sanford advanced to the final after convincing wins over the Miles Macdonell Buckeyes (56–26) and the Kelvin Clippers (73–26).
That victory marked the fourth tournament title in less than a month for the Sabres, a run head coach Kelli said has been driven by the group’s work ethic and adaptability.
“Work ethic, attitude and athleticism have helped our team have success,” she said. “All of the athletes have done a good job adjusting to strategies thrown at them throughout games and working hard in practice.”
On Jan. 29–30, Sanford claimed its own invitational tournament championship, defeating the Dauphin Clippers 58–30 in the final. Earlier in the month, the Sabres won the Linden Christian School Tournament, closing out the event with a dominant 73–18 win over the Linden Christian Wings. From Jan. 8–10, Sanford also took top spot at the Piper Classic, defeating the St. Mary’s Flames 68–42 in the championship game.
Kelli said the team has continued to evolve throughout the season, blending experience with younger talent.
“We have two Grade 12s, five Grade 11s and six Grade 10s,” she said. “Many of them are multi-sport athletes, and they’ve been committed to learning and growing together.”
Defence has been a constant strength, with Sanford routinely limiting opponents’ scoring chances while maintaining a fast pace of play.
“Our defence has been very consistent in every game, holding teams to low offensive production,” Kelli said. “Our pace of play has also been strong throughout the season.”
Leadership and depth have also played a key role in the Sabres’ success. Team captains Halle Penner and Ryan McKinlay bring high-level experience, including competing for Team Manitoba at the Canada Games this summer. Along with Grade 12s Penner and Jacintha Muir and Grade 11s McKinlay and Mackenzie Jeffery, the leadership group has been part of the varsity program since Grade 9.
“They’ve gained a lot of experience being part of two provincial finalist teams the past two seasons,” Kelli said. “Those experiences have helped guide our younger athletes.”
League play has mirrored Sanford’s tournament success, with lopsided wins over the WC Miller Aces (70–29), Morden Thunder (68–25) and Garden Valley Zodiacs (75–44). The Sabres did suffer a setback on Feb. 3, dropping a 71–42 decision to WC Miller, but the loss has done little to slow their momentum.
Kelli said tournament play remains a key part of the team’s development.
“Tournaments are always an important part of the season,” she said. “We’ve been very lucky to be invited to 4A tournaments that have helped us develop our depth.”
As the postseason approaches, Sanford’s goals are clear. The Sabres are aiming to win both the Zone 4 AAA championship and provincials, which they will host March 19–21 in Sanford.
Beyond results, Kelli said the team’s culture has set it apart.
“All of the girls work extremely hard in practice and competition,” she said. “They’re not afraid to make mistakes to grow, and they support each other through it. They’re an extremely special group of athletes, and I’m very proud of all of them.”
Sanford returns to home court on Feb. 17, hosting the Garden Valley Zodiacs at 6 p.m. as they continue their push through the Zone 4 AAA season.
