Abbotsford – With expectations running high, the men’s and women’s UCFV basketball teams will open their 2003-04 BCCAA regular season at home this weekend. On Friday, Oct. 31, Douglas College will form the opposition while on Saturday, Nov. 1, Kwantlen University College will pay a visit. Game times for both nights are 6:00 p.m. for the women, 8:00 p.m. for the men.  

A brief ceremony will precede the start of the women’s game on Friday night to recognize the Cascades as the defending BCCAA Provincial Champions. Returning and graduated players from last year’s squad will watch their 2002-03 Championship banner being raised to the rafters as they begin defense of their title.  

On Saturday night, a special half-time performance by the In Motion Dance Group will entertain spectators in attendance.  

After impressive preseason performances, optimism is running high that both UCFV teams are legitimate contenders for Conference and National titles. The Cascade men have made a habit of winning the National title every second year over the past five years, so if the trend continues, this will be their year. The Cascade women, on the other hand, have participated in the National Championships four of the past five years.  

Regular admission for adults is $3, students $2 while children under 6 are free. As part of UCFV Athletics’ costume party on Halloween night, anyone arriving in costume will be admitted free. Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes at half time of the men’s game and there will be treats for the kids (and adults, too).  

On Saturday night, UCFV Athletics will donate half of the gate revenues to the UCFV United Way campaign. Donation jars for the United Way will also be set up at the admissions table.