Kissi’s contract extended

Charles is definitely in charge. After bringing the Brock men’s basketball team from the basement of Ontario University Athletics to a nationally-ranked team in three short seasons, Brock has rewarded head coach Charles Kissi with a three-year contract extension and the new position as the school’s manager of basketball operations. The former detective constable with Toronto Police Services will oversee the development of all aspects of basketball at Brock.

“From the program standpoint, I will try to continue to add value to ensure that basketball grows and represents the university well,” Kissi said. “Every aspect has been elevated year after year. I’m grateful that there are people who recognize the change and want to be part of that.

“I’m looking forward to another historic year for both men’s and women’s basketball.”

Brock Sports director Neil Lumsden made the announcement Thursday.

“From an educational and a fundraising perspective, it’s the sharing of information to develop the game at Brock. We’re on a great trajectory and we want to continue that,” he said.

Lumsden felt Brock basketball took a big step last season, staging games at the Meridian Centre, getting national attention for the men’s and women’s programs, and growing the fan base.

“All those things tie in to being able to recruit at a higher level,” Lumsden said. “It’s not just about winning games, it’s not just about playing at the Meridian Centre, and it’s not just about us recruiting young student/athletes. It’s all these things combined with great coaching to deliver an outstanding student experience.”

Kissi, who was named Brock’s 2015-16 coach of the year after leading his team to a 27-11 record, came to Brock after working as a police officer for a decade.

He is the former head coach of the Ryerson Ram’s women’s team that made the OUA East Division Final Four in 2010-11. He started at Ryerson in 2009-10 as an assistant coach.

At the travel team level, the former McMaster University player was head coach of the Tri-County Thunder JUEL Team in 2012-13. Prior to that, he coached with the Scarborough Blues club program.

Brock’s men play exhibition games against Niagara College in Welland Wednesday, Oct. 5 and at home against St. Francis Xavier on Thursday, Oct. 6.

Brock’s men and women open the OUA regular season at home Nov. 12 to the University of Toronto.

I’m looking forward to another historic year for both men’s and women’s basketball.” Charles Kissi