The opening remark and dedication of the league was addressed by Chairman and Board of Director Ray Lizama.
“It is an honor for me to stand here before you today as this league is dedicated to our players who have passed.”
said Lizama. “…As a matter of fact, the 45 division is my inspiration. I hope to expand the masters to a 50, 60, and even a 70 division for all of us to live strong and healthy” he added strongly as he concluded his speech.
THE MBFNMI Board of Directors unanimously voted to dedicate the 40A and 45A Masters Basketball League in memory of our beloved CNMI Basketball Players.
The banner honoring them can be found hanging on the wall of the Ada Gym which was hung to honor their legacy and recognize them during the inaugural ceremony during the 35A Masters Basketball League on April 06, 2010.
This season 40A and 45A Masters Basketball League will be officially called the “2010 Memorial Cup Masters Basketball League”.
The Masters league then drew numbers to see when and who they will go up against. Today’s line up will be composed of Top 45’s vs. Ferrera Builders scheduled for the first game at 6:30 pm followed by a second game with Eric Atalig’s team pegged up against team Armatech at 8 pm.
The MBFNMI board of directors decided gave enough time to the coaches and players to receive all of their uniforms and for the competitors to secure their sponsors and pay the entrance fees as well as to accommodate the Saipan Rotary Youth Basketball League and the opening ceremony last Saturday was on time and was conducted smoothly.
The MBFNMI organization is now looking forward to hosting the 2010 Memorial Cup All-Stars Game between 35A, 40A and 45A divisions for bragging rights at the end of the season.
Once again it is a kind reminder that the MBFNMI logo patch is mandated to be worn by all players at all times and it must be located at the top left area of their uniforms.
The format is on a Single Round Robin bracket and the top 8 teams will have a chance to claim the championship seat and be forever remembered in the MBFNMI’s historical book as the first 40A and 45A Champions.
The MBFNMI has very unique ground rules which will live up to its goal in promoting health and fitness. One unique rule would be that ALL players must play in all 4 quarters or teams will be subjected for violation of the rule.
The MBFNMI continues to implement FIBA rules as well. Players can call for a time-out any time when a player has full-control of the ball or substitution on any violation(s).
Along with its focus of living a healthier lifestyle, the MBFNMI has future plans of sending teams next year to the famous World Masters Organizations or also known as the Masters Games 2011 in Australia and 2013 World Masters Olympic in Italy where 153 countries have already been registered.
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