Temiskaming Thunder: Season Three — Growing the Game Across the North

As Temiskaming Thunder steps into its third official season, we can confidently say that this program has become something truly special in Northern Ontario. What started as a grassroots idea between a small group of volunteers has now grown into a region-wide basketball community — one that spans multiple towns, multiple high schools, and multiple age groups.

Our athletes come from all across the Temiskaming district: Kirkland Lake, Kenabeek, Englehart, New Liskeard, Haileybury, and Latchford. We have players from four local high schools: Englehart High School (EHS), Timiskaming District Secondary School (TDSS), École secondaire catholique Sainte-Marie (ESCSM), and Kirkland Lake District Composite School (KLDCS). That’s a whole lot of hometown pride in one gym!

And because Northern Ontario families genuinely spend half their lives on the highway, we’ve kept our promise of offering two practice locations — EHS and TDSS/ESCSM — to reduce travel time for as many families as possible. Accessibility isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we build into every decision.

Four Rep Teams. One Thunder Family.

This season, Thunder is proud to field four competitive rep teams:

• U16 Girls (roster available online)

• U19 Girls (roster available online)

• U15 Boys (roster coming soon)

• U17 Boys (roster coming soon)

These teams compete in sanctioned Ontario Basketball Association (OBA) events, travel tournaments, and competitive matchups across Northern Ontario — representing our region with heart, effort, and resilience.

But more importantly, Thunder Rep is about the full experience, not just the score at the final buzzer. Our program is designed to challenge athletes, build leaders, and create meaningful memories on and off the court.

Players can expect:

• Weekly practices from late November (or January/February for boys programs) through May

• A player swag kit (Think Lululemon & Under Armour)

• 2–3 travel tournaments, plus competitive games across Northern Ontario

• A $650 registration fee that covers uniforms, OBA registration, insurance, tournament fees, and program costs

• A season built around teamwork, mindset, leadership, and confidence

  
  

Because of our community partners, Thunder continues to be the most affordable rep program in the entire OBA — pricing $230 lower than the next closest club. This is only possible because of the support of 18 dedicated sponsors (view them here) who help us keep the lights on, cover program costs, and bring certified referees to the North.

Thunder is a Canada Basketball Verified Program — The Only One in Northeastern Ontario

We’re incredibly proud to share that Temiskaming Thunder remains the only Canada Basketball Verified Club in all of Northeastern Ontario. This verification isn’t just a badge — it’s a national recognition of our club’s commitment to:

• Safe Sport and EDI

• Technical skill development

• Strong governance and administration

The Canada Basketball Verification Program ensures clubs offer safe, welcoming, and developmentally appropriate environments for youth of every background and ability. Being Verified means our athletes receive nationally aligned programming — right here at home! Learn more about their program here!

Thunder x Lululemon — A New Standard for Team Gear

This year also marks a huge milestone for our club: Temiskaming Thunder was selected to join the Lululemon Team Program.

Our athletes will now be outfitted in premium Lululemon training and travel apparel — designed for movement, trusted by elite athletes, and built to withstand the pace of an entire rep season. Embroidery is handled locally by Head to Toe Sportswear in Haileybury, and our fanwear will be available through Source for Sports, making this partnership a win for both our athletes and our community.

Proudly OBA Certified

Thunder is officially an OBA-Certified Club, meaning we operate under Ontario’s highest standards for youth basketball. Our athletes compete against other certified teams, gaining experience in structured, well-run environments that support long-term growth and development.

Looking Ahead

Season three represents more than another year of basketball — it’s proof of what a determined, community-driven program can achieve. Through the dedication of our volunteers, families, coaches, athletes, and sponsors, Temiskaming Thunder continues to grow into a club that Northern Ontario can be proud of.

This is only the beginning.

Here’s to a season filled with new memories, new milestones, and the same passion that started it all.

Thunder on.