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Kenzey Garton has long been passionate about hockey.

During the winter months, if Kenzey isn't at school or with her friends, you will likely find her skating inside or on an outdoor rink. Of course, Garton has made many amazing friends over the years while playing hockey. A few years ago; however, she was looking for a new challenge.

Already packed with a busy schedule, Kenzey turned to the hardcourt. While still playing as much hockey as she can, Garton started playing basketball four years ago at Mackenzie Middle School. While things weren't always as smooth as can be while she was learning the game, Garton stuck with it. She continued putting everything she had into the game and fell in love with the sport.

"There have been some ups and downs, sometimes I wasn't playing as often as I wanted to," said Garton. "Now I'm doing quite well and I'm happy. I feel that I have grown so much over the past four years. I was playing with girls who had been playing the sport for years, which helped me because I had to push myself."

Now as July continues to tick away, Garton is getting in extra reps as she prepares alongside her teammates to compete at the 2024 Manitoba Summer Games, Powered by Manitoba Hydro. The week-long event will take place from August 11-17 in Dauphin and the surrounding area. 

Garton will play on Team West 16U in the basketball competition.

"I was very excited when I found out, such a happy moment for me when I found out," offered Garton. "I'm thrilled to be playing alongside some incredible teammates. I'm also learning so much as we go on, I'm loving every moment."

Garton and her teammates have been practicing twice a week since April and have played in a few exhibition matches over the past few months. This is Garton's first Manitoba Summer Games experience and from her play on the hardcourt to staying in the athlete's village to everything in between, the Dauphin star is looking forward to being a part of a week that she will never forget.

"I'm looking forward to building new friendships with people from all of the other regions," offered Garton. "I also want to have a helping hand in showing the younger generation how great of a sport basketball is, that's important to me."

Kenzey is one of a few Dauphinites who will play on the West 16U team as she is joined by Olivia Brown, Aubrey Carr, Mila Heschuk, and Desiree Lariviere, to name a few. It will be Parkland Strong at the event and Kenzey is looking forward to tying up her shoes and showing everything that she can do in the biggest single-week sporting event in the province.

"It is very exciting to have all of these athletes from around the province come to Dauphin," ended Garton. "To play in my hometown means everything to me. I know how much work everyone involved is putting in ahead of this event and it's going to be extremely special."

As we continue to near the Opening Ceremonies, stay tuned to us here at 730CKDM as we will continue to highlight local athletes.