Vancouver Bandits coach Kyle Julius visits schools across B.C., inspiring young athletes with pro-level basketball guidance and community connection.
A Surprise Visit with a Big Impact
Imagine a regular school day suddenly turning amazing. That’s exactly what happened at Rick Hansen Secondary in Abbotsford when Vancouver Bandits head coach Kyle Julius stepped onto the court. Students watched, listened, and learned as a professional coach guided them through skills used at the highest levels of basketball. It felt exciting. It felt real. Above all, it felt inspiring.
Bringing Pro Basketball to Local Schools
The visit was part of the third annual Bandits School Tour, hosted by the Vancouver Bandits and the Bandits Community Foundation. The goal is simple: teach young B.C. athletes how to grow—not only as players but also as teammates and leaders. This week alone, four Abbotsford schools are on the list, including:
- Rick Hansen Secondary
- Abby Senior Secondary
- MEI Secondary
- W.J. Mouat Secondary
And the momentum keeps growing. Last year’s tour reached 16 cities, and the team hopes to visit even more this time.
Why the Tour Matters
Coach Julius explained the purpose clearly. He visits schools to build strong connections with students and coaches. As many return to watch Bandits games afterward, it shows the impact goes beyond the gym. The students gain confidence. Coaches gain insight. The community gains unity.
Julius believes these visits make a difference because many young players don’t have access to high-level coaching. His experience becomes their opportunity.
The Coach Behind the Movement
Before joining the Bandits in 2020, Julius coached the Mississauga Power, London Lightning, and Saigon Heat. Under his leadership, the Bandits reached two Canadian Elite Basketball League Championship finals and earned the best regular-season record last season. Now, he brings that winning mindset directly to students across British Columbia.
The Future Starts Here
The tour includes both boys’ and girls’ secondary teams. Students witnessed firsthand how hard work and guidance can open doors. They also heard a powerful message from Julius:
“Maybe the next Bandit is going to come from one of these school visits.”
And that idea changed everything. Dreams suddenly felt closer.
A Lasting Message
The lesson was simple and unforgettable: with guidance, effort, and belief, young athletes can rise higher than they ever imagined. The tour continues. The excitement grows. And somewhere in a B.C. gym, the next Bandit may already be warming up.
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