The Incredible Journey: The Story Of The Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club

Imagine a time when women's basketball was seen as a mere novelty, confined to intramurals and local exhibition games. A time when the sport was widely considered unladylike, almost scandalous. In such a climate, a group of determined young women from Edmonton, Canada, defied societal expectations and rise as one of the most dominant basketball teams in history. This is the inspiring story of the Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club.

Genesis of the Club

The year was 1915 when the Commercial High School Alumnae Association established a basketball team. The team initially consisted of former graduates from the Commercial High School who played exhibition games against local teams. It was a humble beginning, but little did they know that this would mark the birth of something extraordinary.

Recognizing the potential and talent within their ranks, the team decided to enter the prestigious Dominion Ladies’ Basketball Tournament in 1922. Competing against more experienced teams, the Edmonton Commercial Graduates surprised everyone by winning the tournament in their first-ever appearance. This triumph was just the beginning of an unforgettable legacy.

The Grads Are Playing Tonight!: The Story of the Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club

by M. Ann Hall (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5347 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	384 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	248 pages
Item Weight	:	13.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.62 x 9 inches

FREE

Mastering the Game

The Edmonton Commercial Graduates were relentless in their pursuit of excellence. They dedicated themselves to perfecting their skills, conditioning their bodies, and adopting innovative strategies. Their relentless work ethic set them apart from their peers and catapulted them to unparalleled success.

Under the guidance of legendary coach J. Percy Page, the team embraced a fast-paced style of play, emphasizing speed, agility, and ball movement. This innovative approach revolutionized women's basketball, laying the foundation for the modern game we know today. The Graduates' ability to execute intricate plays with precision made them virtually unbeatable.

Dominating the Competition

The Edmonton Commercial Graduates became synonymous with victory, capturing ten consecutive national championships from 1921 to 1930. Their incredible winning streak saw them go undefeated in 147 straight games, a record that remains unmatched to this day. Their unmatched dominance brought national recognition to women's basketball and shattered preconceived notions about the abilities of female athletes.

Notably, the Graduates' success was not confined to local competitions. In 1923, they won the inaugural Women's World Basketball Tournament held in Paris, France. This international triumph solidified their reputation as a force to be reckoned with on a global scale.

Moving Forward

The Edmonton Commercial Graduates' tremendous influence stretched far beyond their on-court accomplishments. They inspired generations of women to believe in themselves and to pursue their dreams, regardless of what society dictated. Their rise challenged the stereotypes of the time and laid the groundwork for a more inclusive sporting landscape.

Although the team eventually disbanded in 1940 due to various factors, including the onset of World War II, their legacy continues to live on. The Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club paved the way for women's basketball, leaving an indelible mark on the sport's history.

Remembering the Legends

In recognition of the team's remarkable contributions, the Edmonton Commercial Graduates were inducted into the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003. This honor serves as a reminder of their enduring impact and ensures that their legacy will be cherished for generations to come.

Today, the story of the Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club serves as a testament to the power of determination, teamwork, and the ability to defy convention. Their journey continues to inspire athletes around the world, reminding them that anything is possible with unwavering dedication and a dream.

The Grads Are Playing Tonight!: The Story of the Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club

by M. Ann Hall (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5347 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	384 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	248 pages
Item Weight	:	13.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.62 x 9 inches

FREE

Between 1915 and 1940 the amazing Edmonton Grads dominated women's basketball in Canada. Coached by J. Percy Page, they played over 400 official games, losing only 20; they travelled more than 125,000 miles in Canada, the United States, and Europe; and they crossed the Atlantic three times to defend their world title at exhibition games held in conjunction with the Summer Olympics in Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Meticulously researched and documented-including capsule biographies of all 38 women who played for the Grads over the years and over 100 photos-the story of the Edmonton Grads will enthrall fans of sport history and women in sport. [CTV interview: http://tinyurl.com/6pxg5aq]