ST. CATHARINES - Brock University men's basketball coach Brad Rootes is trading his whistle for a badge, stepping down to pursue a career with the Niagara Regional Police Service.
"Brad was a great player, a great young coach is a tremendous role model, mentor and leader to youth in Niagara," said Brock Director of Athletics Robert Hilson. "We thank Brad for his dedication and contribution to the Brock basketball family, and wish him all the best as he moves on to his career with the Niagara Regional Police Service."
Rootes, who as a Brock player was a perennial all-star who led the Badgers to a national title, leaves a rich basketball legacy in his wake as he joins the NRPS.
In 2008, Rootes was captain of Brock's CIS National Championship team, and was also named an OUA first team all-star for his fifth consecutive season, the first Brock player to be named a conference all-star all five seasons of their varsity career. He was also selected as the OUA West Player of the Year and a second team all-Canadian for his second straight season.
After graduating, Rootes played one season professionally in Ukraine for Politekhnika Halychyna of the Ukrainian Super League.
In 2010, Rootes became the youngest head coach in Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) at the age of 26. In his three seasons at the helm, he posted a 45-59 overall record (27-38 OUA) and this past season led his team to the postseason for the second consecutive season reaching the OUA West semi-finals.
"It's a decision that I made in the best interest of my family," said Brad Rootes. "It's bittersweet because I am walking away from something I love doing. On the other hand I am extremely excited to begin my new career with the NRPS. I would like to thank all of the people at Brock University and in the Niagara community who have been so great to me and my family over the years. I would like to thank Ken Murray, Dr. Lorne Adams, Chris Critelli and Robert Hilson for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, while guiding and supporting me along the way. I would also like to thank all of the coaches and staff that I had the privilege to work with for the past five years. Brock has been my second home for a long time. I will always cherish it and will forever be a Badger!"
Over the past 10 years, Rootes has been highly involved in the community as a public speaker and presenter both as a player and coach. He has also been a strong role model to youth working with the IMPACT Program and coaching various clinics throughout the province.
"The Niagara Regional Police Service has a history of success recruiting Brock students and Brock student athletes," said Police Superintendent Bob Wright. "We are always excited when any new member starts their career with us; however, it is rewarding to see a young man like Brad, who is so well known and committed to this community, join our Service. I have every confidence that Brad will enjoy the same success with the Niagara Regional Police Service that he has seen as an athlete and coach. He is an excellent example of the caliber of men and women the Service is looking to hire."
In the Brock record books, Rootes is the all-time leader in career free throws made (732-for-922) and steals (327). He also finished his university career ranked 2nd all-time in scoring (2790), assists (1173) and three-pointers made (376-for-1059).
At the first annual Brock Basketball Gala in 2008, Rootes became the fourth Brock basketball player to have his jersey retired. In 2010, he was inducted into both the Niagara Falls Sports Hall of Fame and the A. N. Myer Sports Hall of Fame.
Other former Brock basketball players currently working for the NRPS include Brian Bleich (1992 National Champion), Sam Brefo (2008 National Champion) and Sean Sandal.
Brock University will begin a search for a new head coach immediately.
Please Contact Shawn Whiteley 905-688-5550 x4506 or swhiteley@brocku.ca for all media requests.
