A local standout and the region’s first Mr. Basketball, Rootes spent five seasons with the Badgers from 2003 to 2008
and graduated with a Bachelor of Physical Education (Honours) in 2007.
In his first season, Rootes was an immediate contributor, earning Ontario University Athletics (OUA) West Rookie of the Year along with Second Team All-Star and All-Rookie honours while helping Brock reach the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS), now U SPORTS, national championship game. He went on to lead the Badgers through multiple playoff runs, culminating in the program’s second national title in 2007-08. That season, he was named OUA West MVP, a CIS Second Team All-Canadian for the second time and a three-time OUA West First Team All-Star.
A two-time team MVP and Brock’s Male Athlete of the Year in 2007-08, Rootes left the program as
its all-time leader in free throws made (732), free throw attempts (922) and steals (327), while ranking second in scoring (2,790), assists (1,173) and three-pointers (376).
After graduation, Rootes played professionally in Ukraine before becoming the youngest head coach in CIS history
when he took over the Badgers in 2010. He also led Team Ontario to a U15 national gold medal in 2009 and coached the U17 provincial team in 2010.
After stepping down as head coach of the Badgers in 2013, Rootes joined the Niagara Regional Police Service,
where he remains today, continuing his commitment to leadership and community.
A member of the Niagara Falls and A.N. Myer Sports Halls of Fame, he is recognized for his excellence and lasting impact on Brock basketball.
