Beginning over 15 years ago at St. Basil Secondary School, staff from the Independent Living Skills Program launched an annual bowling tournament rooted in inclusion and community. After continuing at the former Bawating site, the event evolved into a school-wide initiative at St. Mary’s College. Following the amalgamation of the two secondary schools in 2015, it became known as the Heaven Cent Bowling Tournament.

This year, the tournament welcomed students from eight different schools across both HSCDSB and ADSB, with approximately 130 bowlers participating. Students ranged in age from 10 to 21 and represented a wide variety of special education needs. At its core, the tournament is about building community—creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued, supported, and celebrated. It also reflects the call for students at St. Mary’s College to welcome, include, and uplift one another with love.

The success of the event is made possible through the generosity of both the school and the broader community. The Algoma Autism Foundation generously provides the meal, SK Group sponsors the School Spirit Award, Metro on Northern Avenue donates cookies for dessert, and Rector Machines contributes financial support. The Heaven Cent Campaign also supports all St. Mary’s College participants. Special thanks are extended to Sam Cristillo and his team at Northcrest Lanes for their ongoing support in keeping costs low and creating a welcoming and accessible environment for all bowlers.

At the heart of the tournament are the student volunteers. Each year, more than 60 students from Grades 9–12 dedicate their time to ensuring the event runs smoothly. As lane leaders, they provide encouragement, assistance, and positive energy to all participants. Following the bowling portion of the day, these student leaders return to St. Mary’s College to help serve lunch and take part in the Awards Assembly, where each participant is recognized with a medal and certificate.

Excellence is also celebrated through high score awards, as well as the “Heart of a Knight Award,” presented to two students who exemplify courtesy, honour, kindness, leadership, and a consistently positive attitude. In addition, the school demonstrating the most spirit is awarded a plaque to proudly display for the year.

We also extend our sincere thanks to the St. Mary’s College student volunteers for their incredible support throughout the day—we are proud of the leadership, compassion, and school spirit they continue to demonstrate.

For both participants and student leaders, the Heaven Cent Bowling Tournament remains a highlight of the year, an event that truly embodies the spirit of inclusion, joy, and community.