The OCAA Men's Basketball Championship was about to begin.
The teams gathered on the court for the pre-game rituals: player introductions and the national anthem.
But before any of that, a new tradition at St. Clair College took root.
Students in the Protection, Security and Investigation (PSI) and Police Foundations programs appeared from the corner of the SportsPlex on March 6, 2026, marking the inaugural march of the St. Clair College Honour Guard.
"Watching the Honour Guard perform at their first event is a reminder of the pride and professionalism our students carry into everything they do," said Prof. Ed Marocko, the program coordinator for PSI and Police Foundations. "Their commitment to the traditions of drill and ceremony reflects hours of preparation and a deep respect for the values of service. They represent St. Clair College, PSI, and Police Foundations with distinction."
The group of 13 students began training for the exercise two months ago and were fitted for uniforms.
The student-run honour guard carries four flags during the ceremony: The Canadian Flag, and the flags for the Province of Ontario, City of Windsor and St. Clair College.
"We wanted to bring something a little bit special to the College to honour our flags," said Prof. Rick Beauchamp of the PSI and Police Foundations programs.
Students involved in the project will make appearances at St. Clair College hosted varsity games, as well as handover, Convocation and Remembrance Day ceremonies at the College.
"At other colleges, they don't have this opportunity, they don't have this kind of group or these clubs, so I think it's important that we have this," said Noor Botrus, the guard commander for the St. Clair Honour Guard. "It really shows our spirit as people and as students of St. Clair."
The team was mentored by people with military training in preparation for the first march. With one ceremony now under their belts, the students look forward to future opportunities to present the colours.
"We couldn't be happier to cheer them on," said Prof. Marocko, noting the camaraderie and pride from the group. "These students represent the college with integrity and enthusiasm, and we could not be prouder of the effort they have invested in preparing for this role."
