UCalgary and Calgary Surge team up for inaugural SLAM FEST

Ready for some hoops? The University of Calgary and the Calgary Surge are thrilled to announce the launch of the inaugural SLAM FEST, a vibrant celebration of basketball and community spirit. 

Slated for June 15 at the WinSport Event Centre, the event promises to be a fun-filled spectacle, showcasing the partnership between UCalgary and Surge, a proud alumni-co-owned Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) team.

"This one-of-a-kind event is incredibly special to the countless members of our organization who are proud to call ourselves University of Calgary alumni, current students, athletes and donors. SLAM FEST will feature all the amazing basketball contests and entertainment Calgarians have only seen on television," says Dr. Jason Ribeiro, PhD’24, Surge vice-chair and president. 

"We could not have asked for a better partner in bringing this event to the community."

The main draw of SLAM FEST will be a friendly basketball competition featuring players from both the Surge and the UCalgary Dinos, including current members and alumni. Attendees can look forward to an NBA All-Star-style showcase of skills with a variety of competitions such as dunk contests, dribbling circuits, three-point contests and a scrimmage with a mix of both teams and alumni.

"We're thrilled to be part of SLAM FEST, an event that goes beyond the game to connect with our community in a meaningful way," says Ben Matchett, BComm’06, BA ’06, director of athletics with the Dinos. 

"We’re excited to partner with the Calgary Surge to showcase Dinos basketball and everything university athletics has to offer. This festival is a wonderful chance to see our current players and alumni compete with the Surge, highlighting their skills and sharing their passion for basketball. 

“It's a celebration of sport, unity and the strong bonds within the Calgary community."

An event for the whole community

SLAM FEST will be a festival-style event that aims to engage Calgarians, UCalgary alumni families and basketball fans. It aims to unite the community through sport, offering a blend of athletic excellence and community celebration. It’s also a great way to support UCalgary alumni, the Dinos and the Surge.

"SLAM FEST is an incredible event that gives us a chance to celebrate our newest partnership with the Calgary Surge,” says Amanda Affonso, BA’00, associate vice-president, alumni, community and partnerships. 

“The collaboration isn't just about putting on a fantastic sports event. It's about showcasing athletes from the Surge and Dinos and bringing the entire Calgary community together, including UCalgary students, alumni and local residents."

In addition to the basketball festivities, SLAM FEST will feature a variety of activities for the whole family. From music and dance performances to interactive skill challenges and merchandise giveaways, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. This event is more than just a game — it's an opportunity to strengthen bonds with the local community and alumni while showcasing the talent and spirit of the Surge and Dinos.

"We're excited to support a community-focused organization that crosses culture, builds community and encourages art in sport,” Affonso says about the Surge. “UCalgary is proud to support its alumni and Alumni Built Businesses, truly embodying the Start Something spirit with the Calgary Surge. Community is at the heart of everything we do, and we are thrilled to bring this vibrant event to life with and for our community."

One of the core aims of SLAM FEST is to give back to the community. To this end, $1.50 from each ticket will be donated to the UCalgary Student Food Security Fund. This initiative reflects UCalgary’s commitment to supporting its students and addressing food insecurity on campus. The fund provides essential resources to students in need, helping them to succeed academically and personally.

Get your tickets now

Tickets range from $23 to $35, with special alumni pricing available (alumni are encouraged to update their contact information to facilitate alumni ticket discounts).

Student pricing and general tickets are also available.

So, gear up for an exciting day of basketball, family-friendly entertainment and community support. Grab your SLAM FEST tickets now and join us on June 15 to experience the thrill and excitement of this unique event.