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Basketball trip was within health guidelines, says APH

Northstar Preparatory Institute's recent training session in Sault Ste. Marie was done in consultation with Algoma Public Health
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A Manitoba-based basketball team that trained in Sault Ste. Ste. Marie for a two-week stretch in December did so in consultation with Algoma Public Health, the health unit says.

Northstar Preparatory Institute of Winnipeg was in Sault Ste. Marie training for two weeks before returning to Winnipeg on Dec. 21.

The team was unable to train in Winnipeg as the Manitoba capital has been in a code red lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a statement, APH Medical Officer of Health Dr. Marlene Spruyt said the training session was done by the book.

“APH did conduct a risk assessment and consultation with the local organizers in late November and the event did not contravene any provincial regulations at the time,” Spruyt said in a statement to SooToday. “Public health guidance was provided.”

Spruyt also said that APH can’t prevent events that are in compliance with provincial regulations and recommendations.

“It does not mean we support or endorse specific gatherings or events,” Spruyt said, adding that risk assessments are conducted based on the activities involved in the event.

Local basketball coach Jeff Giovanatti, who is listed as an associate coach with Northstar Prep and is also a head coach with its Circuit Program, confirmed Tuesday that the team had been training locally.

Attempts to reach Northstar Prep head coach Daron Leonard for comment by SooToday were unsuccessful.