With the arrival of August, the first wave of Quest University students begins returning to Squamish, typically in the form of the men's and women's soccer teams.
But this year another team, men's basketball, is off to an early start against NCAA top-tier opponents.
The squad will play a trio of 7 p.m. tip-offs against Northwestern State on Sunday (Aug.12), Cal State-Northridge (Aug. 24) and Eastern Washington (Sept. 11) in preparation for their PACWEST season that begins in early November.
The Northwestern State Demons (Louisiana) posted an overall record of 16-16 last year in the Southland Conference of the NCAA Division I.They will be led by standout senior guard Shamir Davis, who averaged 13.3 points and 3.1 assists per game in the 2011-'12 season.
Cal State Northridge (7-21 in 2011-'12) feature Big West Freshman of the Year,Stephen Hicks, returning to improve on his team-leading 15.1 points per game. The Matadors will also bring the presence down low with shot-blocker Frankie Eteuati returning for his junior year.
The local opponents come in the form of the Eastern Washington Eagles, 15-17 last year in the Big Sky Conference. The Eagles are led by forward Collin Chiverton, who averaged 13.9 points last season.
All games are open to the public and parking is available at the Quest University Recplex. For more information on Quest athletics, visit www.questkermodes.ca.
