Alexandra Park’s new multi-sport courts draw people from across the community
Revitalized courts unite community through sports and connection.
Mohsin Khattak and Labib Chowdhury grew up in Alexandra Park. Labib still lives in the Atkinson Co-operative and both men are deeply involved in their communities, working at two neighbouring community centres. Both also share the same passion for building sports programs and bringing this excitement to others.
Mohsin is the Interim Executive Director for the Alexandra Park Community Centre (APCC), while Labib is a Youth Worker in the Scadding Court Community Centre (SCCC) a couple of blocks away. It makes sense then, that both men are excited about—and were actively part of—the new multi-sport courts that were refurbished in Alexandra Park this year and in 2023.
The newest court, which officially opened September 17, is a multi-sport venue that was refurbished thanks to a partnership with TCHC, Tridel, Rogers Communications, the John Tavares Foundation, Time2Play, and Their Opportunity.
“It’s really full circle for me to be where I am today,” said Mohsin. “When I was a kid, I played lots of lacrosse. I did my first summer camp through the APCC. Then I got my first-ever employment contract here in 1993, which was signed by Atkinson Co-Op founder Sonny Atkinson.”
Labib is more of a ball hockey fan. He says he’ll be hosting programs at the new court. He’ll also work to help Moshin bring lacrosse back into the community.
“The new courts are fantastic,” said Labib Chowdhury, long time resident of Alexandra Park. “They’re built with a cushioned surface so they’re better and safer for the community. With these two courts, the community centre is even more popular. They pull people in from across the community, it’s clear everyone really appreciates the investment.”
The official opening event for the new court was a bonus for the community, said Labib: “Having someone like John Tavares in the community, on our court, was special.”
Mohsin agrees, adding: “knowing that John’s family played on these courts is indeed, very special.”
The new courts also offer places for parents to sit and watch their kids play, which adds a new community element to the courts, said Mohsin: “Now anyone can have a place to sit, gather, socialize and watch some action, or just play checkers or chess.”