The family of the late Winnipeg Sea Bears captain, Chad Posthumus, expressed their pride in the dedication of a new court in his memory at the North Kildonan recreation center where he began his basketball journey. The Chad Posthumus Memorial Court was revealed at the Gateway Recreation Centre on Gateway Road, a moment that his mother, Diana Posthumus, shared would be cherished by the family indefinitely.
Diana mentioned that Chad would have been delighted to witness the growth of basketball in his community and the increased opportunities for everyone to engage in the sport he held dear. Chad’s initial basketball experiences took place at the Gateway Recreation Centre through the Winnipeg Minor Basketball Association when he was just nine years old. She highlighted his strong bond with the community, emphasizing how he proudly represented them from his early years of play to his time as a standout player with the Sea Bears.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Chad played for the River East Collegiate Kodiaks during his high school years. Following a professional basketball career in Ottawa and Saskatchewan, he returned to Winnipeg in 2023 as the inaugural player signed by the Sea Bears when the Canadian Elite Basketball League expanded to the city. Tragically, Chad passed away at the age of 33 due to complications from a brain aneurysm that occurred during a training session the previous year.
His jersey number, 33, was retired during a poignant ceremony at the Winnipeg Sea Bears’ home opener. Additionally, a section of road outside the Canada Life Centre was renamed Chad Posthumus Way in his honor, further commemorating his legacy in the city.
David Asper, owner of the Sea Bears, expressed the deep loss felt by the team following Chad’s passing, describing him as the “soul of the franchise.” Mayor Scott Gillingham and Rossmere MLA Tracy Schmidt also paid tribute to Chad’s positive impact on the community, highlighting his leadership and inspiration to others.
The new memorial court at the Gateway Recreation Centre is part of a comprehensive upgrade project, including pickleball courts, pathways, bike racks, and seating areas. The city announced that the initiative, costing $569,000, received substantial funding from municipal programs and funds, with additional support from the province’s sustainable communities fund.
Mayor Gillingham acknowledged the widespread impact of Chad’s loss on the community, emphasizing his enduring positive influence. Asper expressed gratitude for the recognition of Chad’s legacy, both on and off the court, underscoring the team’s pride in having him as a member and the lasting impact of his memory.
