On June 7th, we hosted our 20th Annual Liberty & Justice Unity Basketball Game, featuring our Prodigal Sonz team and the Hamilton Police All-Stars team. This event has united our community for 20 years.
20th Annual Liberty & Justice Unity Basketball Game
Before the game began, Liberty For Youth alumni Stewart and Sergeant Jack Vanderpol shared their journey over the years. This highlighted how perspectives have shifted, with more youth beginning to understand that they have common ground with the police. This year, our annual Steel City Cop Award was presented to Constable Liam McCowell. During the symbolic presentation of the Unity Ball, youth participant Eleejah handed the ball to Constable Liam McCowell. This represents reconciliation between youth in conflict with the law and Hamilton Police Services.
For the first time, we presented the Sgt. Jack Vanderpol Bursary to Eleejah for excelling in the program this year.
Many community members came out to watch the Prodigal Sonz and the Hamilton Police All-Stars battle it out for the 2025 Championship! In the end, the Hamilton Police All-Stars secured a close victory with a final score of 62 to 58.
The game was co-mediated by Ron Foxcroft of Fox 40, alongside Mario “Motzee” Suffoletta and Guy Cipriani. To mark this 20-year milestone, Old Republic Insurance Company of Canada generously offered a matching grant of up to $20,000—doubling the impact of community donations. We are proud to share that we raised $20,300 toward the sustainability of our youth programming.
Special thanks to Staff Sergeant David McKenzie for helping us to organize this event.
On behalf of our youth, we are deeply grateful for your support of this event. This event continues to serve as living proof that police and youth can come together to work toward a safer and stronger community.