Hoopstars

The Ottawa Police Hoopstars is a dedicated team of volunteers of both police and partners who deeply care about the community they serve.

All of its members are committed to engaging and building sustainable relationships within the many diverse communities that make up the city of Ottawa by playing a game of basketball with youth or even simply having personal one-on-one talks.

Sport is a universal language that any adult or teen can understand, and out on the court, you forget about labels and focus on teamwork. Encouraging healthy interaction with police through competitive games reinforces the fact that police are there to help. And we are.  

The OPS Hoopstars was co-founded by members of the Ottawa Police Basketball team, formerly called the Flatfooters. Before becoming police officers, some OPS Hoopstars competed professionally or in university as basketball players. The team also features one former and one current Olympic athlete. In May 2017, the name and direction of the team was changed to reflect the new mandate to connect with youth at area high schools and community centres to help build lasting and meaningful relationships.

The team comprises mainly Ottawa Police members; however, it also includes community partners from OC Transpo, Carleton University Special Constables, Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre, varsity athletes within the city of Ottawa, and other engaged community members.

The OPS Hoopstars are also partnered with our invested community stakeholders: Nelligan| O'Brien | Payne law firm, Hera Mission, The Ottawa Boys and Girls Club, The Door Youth Centre, Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) and Q3 Studios.

If you are interested in having the OPS Hoopstars visit your school or community centre for a game or want more information, you can email the team lead, Sergeant Chabine Tucker.

Follow them on Twitter @OPSHoopstars and Instagram @ottawa.police.hoopstars!