BRANDON, MB – Two more recruits have arrived in Brandon to start the 2011-2012 season with the Brandon Bobcats men’s basketball team. Emerick Ravier of Ottawa and Eric Shippers of Kingston, Washington are set to contribute to this year’s squad. Ravier, a 6’2” guard, is transferring from the University of Ottawa where he was a red shirt last year. Prior to that Ravier spent three seasons at La Cite Collegiale in Ottawa where led the team in scoring each year and was an OCAA (Ontario Colleges Athletic Association) all-star in 2005-2006.
“Emerick has the ability to score in bunches for us this season,” says Bobcats head coach Gil Cheung. “He is a creative slasher, who scores in a variety of ways. I believe Emerick will be a very good defender in our conference, and along with Pacome (Matulu) he will bring a toughness to the wing position that we lacked at times last season.”
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to play in Brandon for three reasons,” says Ravier. “One, it’s a new city and a new opportunity which I really look forward to. Two, playing at the CIS level with the best in the country has always been a goal of mine. Three, I’m getting the opportunity to push myself and test myself which is a challenge I always welcome.”
Schippers is a 6’8” forward who is a graduate of North Kitsap High School, where he was team captain in his senior year. Schippers spent the 2009-2010 season with the Montana Tech Orediggers (NAIA).
“We are fortunate to have Eric join our program,” says Cheung. “He will give us an inside presence on both ends of the floor, and has the ability to score with his back to the basket. He has a high basketball IQ, and his leadership and experience will help our young group.”
“I am excited about the opportunity that Brandon University has given me both as a student and an athlete,” says Schippers. “I’ve heard nothing but good things regarding the University and the men’s basketball program. The city of Brandon seems like a perfect fit and it will be a once in a lifetime experience to study, compete and live in such a great place. I can’t thank the coach and his staff enough for the chance they have given me.”