Luther Invitational Basketball Tournament (LIT)

Luther Invitational Tournament (LIT)

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The Luther Invitational Tournament (LIT)  is the longest running high school tournament in Canada. It began in 1953 on the initiative of John Chomay, the senior boys basketball coach and athletic director. LIT is a student-run tournament, lasting three days in February. This annual tournament is one of Luther's most well-known athletic initiatives and cherished traditions. This prestigious tournament is highly regarded for promoting sportsmanship, respect, hospitality and high-level competition. In 2016, LIT was inducted into the Regina Sports Hall of Fame. Teams from across western Canada are invited to participate each year. For more information, contact our Athletic Director and LIT Director, Troy Casper.

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January 6, 2022

Dear LIT fans and supporters;

This morning I had to make a difficult decision about LIT 2022, which was scheduled for February 3-5.  We believe, because of the continuing COVID pandemic, and the Omicron variant, our employees, students and community are best served by cancelling LIT this year. 

The province’s Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Shahab, is of the opinion that this Omicron wave should peak in the next four to six weeks and abate around the six to eight week point.  He also commented that while large-scale athletic and cultural school events aren’t currently prohibited by the government, he still strongly advises that we not hold any over the next two months.  While this new variant is less potent, it does spread much more quickly and positive cases are still required to isolate for five days.  This reality could have great impacts on student and teaching absences, and our commitment to in-person learning.  Therefore, LIT’s cancellation is a victim of this very unfortunate timing. 

We considered several alternative plans and all the implications and logistics before coming to this decision.  There is a very remote chance we may be able to postpone the tournament to late March or early April, which would involve applying to the SHSAA for an exemption.

This is especially a big loss for our grade 12s, our LIT advisors and tournament director, and our senior basketball teams.  Any words of positive support would be most appreciated.  LIT is near and dear to all our hearts, and the entire Luther community, but these people are especially invested, having spent the last few months already preparing for LIT 2022.  The support and care we always offer each other is needed even more during this difficult time.  

Sincerely,

Dr. Mark Anderson

Head of School/Principal, Luther College High School