RCMP Cpl. Wesley Alexander Neal is using the sport of basketball as a route to build a connection between police officers and the community in Whati, the North Slave Region of the Northwest Territories.

Wesley’s policing approach in the community focuses on prevention over intervention. His initiative to use basketball as a medium to build a relationship between police officers and community members aims to create a community environment where residents feel comfortable seeking help and discussing their challenges with police.

Originally from London, Ontario, Wesley’s commitment to the cause is evident, as he bought a basketball shooting machine with his own money, hoping to get residents interested in and involved in the sport. Residents have started showing interest, and Wesley is working towards hosting three-on-three and five-on-five basketball tournaments not just in Whati, but also in neighbouring communities like Behchoko and Yellowknife.

Wesley is engaging with local groups, including the community government, the Tlicho Government, Mezi Community School, and the Whati Family Centre, to gain support and resources for the community sport initiative.

He is hopeful about the future of community basketball in Whati and is working with others in the community to keep the program going, even after he moves on. The community basketball initiative is promoting physical activity while helping build a stronger, more connected community.

Source: Thorsten Gohl, NNSL