Basketball popular with Regina Filipino community

Basketball is more than just a game for members of Regina's Filipino community. It's a passion.

More than170 players meet every Saturday to play in theFil Can Sportleague.

"Every now and then we see a new face. People that were born here, people that have been here for more than 20 years," DennisArgamosa, the chair of the league, said."Basketball for Filipinos is part of their life. It's the most popular sport in the Philippines."

Basketball for Filipinos is part of their life- Dennis Argamosa, chair of Fil Can Sport

Venome Bihag, 46, brings his passion for the sport to his church in Regina. He's played with professional players in the Philippines, now he coaches and plays in the Filipino league.

As the pastor of the Regina Filipino Christian Fellowship, he uses the game to connect with hiscongregation.

"They say 'Oh, the pastor is good in basketball,' so I receive more respect from the church and the members," saidBihag.

Most of the players balance their Saturday league play with full-time jobs.

The Senior Basketball Championship game well be held on Saturday, Feb. 28 at Thom Collegiate.