From August 18 to 23, Valmiera was alive with the rhythm of basketball as the traditional international youth basketball tournament, the Bertans Valmiera Summer Cup, took place once again. This year’s event was especially significant for both organizers and participants, marking the tournament’s 10th anniversary. On this milestone occasion, young players from Latvia, Estonia, and Finland gathered in Valmiera, once again highlighting the city’s role as one of the key meeting points for youth basketball in the Baltic region.
Each game was filled with energy, emotion, and a true passion for basketball. The organizers emphasized the importance of strengthening international cooperation and sporting values – friendship, respect, and fair play.
More than basketball
The Bertans Valmiera Summer Cup is a tournament of both experience and friendship. Young athletes not only tested their skills on the court but also took part in the Hesburger Skills Challenge, showcasing and developing their individual abilities. Meanwhile, coaches had the chance to demonstrate their own talent in the Sporta Bode Contest, where they competed in half-court shooting challenges.
Participants, fans, and guests also enjoyed Valmiera’s hospitality and recreational opportunities – from the Pauku Priedes Disc Golf Park and Gauja Steep Banks Senses Park to the Valmiera Swimming Pool.
Valmiera – A basketball home
The international youth basketball tournament was hosted across three venues – the Valmiera Olympic Center, Valmiera Viesturi High School, and Valmiera 5th High School – all providing professional facilities and FIBA-standard tournament management.
The event was organized by the association Valmiera Summer Cup, in close cooperation with the Bertans Valmiera Basketball School and Valmiera Glass VIA Basketball Club, both of which have long been committed to developing the next generation of basketball players.
“Such tournaments give young athletes not only sporting experience but also lifelong friends around the world. This is where the first big emotions are born – the ones that inspire them to aim higher,” the organizers emphasized.
Tournament structure
The competition took place in two stages. The first stage featured boys teams born in 2014, 2015, and 2016, while the second stage brought together teams in the 2011 and 2012 age groups. After an intense week of basketball, winners and podium places were decided in each category.
First Stage Results
2014 age group:
- Gulbene BJSS
- DSN Riga
- Tartu Ülikool
- Cesis PSS
- BS Zemgale
- Liepaja SSS
- Bertans Valmiera BS
- Madona BJSS
- Sigulda SS
- Salaspils SS
2016 age group:
- DSN Riga
- Gulbene BJSS
- Rujiena SS
- Bertans Valmiera BS
- Madona BJSS
- Bertans Valmiera BS 2
2015 age group:
- Madona BJSS
- Bertans Valmiera BS
- Tartu Ülikool / Eletrex
- Cesis PSS
- Smiltene
- Bertans Valmiera BS 2
Second Stage Results
2011 age group:
- Bertans Valmiera BS
- Kesklinna
- East–Ball / RTDP
- DSN Riga
- RBS Centre / Vilku Banda
- SK Ezerzeme / Rēzekne
- PuHu Junoriit
- University of Tartu BS
- Cesis PSS
- TSA
2012 age group:
- SK Ezerzeme / Rēzekne
- Kraslava District SS
- Sigulda SS
- Bertans Valmiera BS
- University of Tartu BS
- DSN Riga 2013
- PuHu Junorit
- Gulbene BJSS
- Kandava BJSS
- DSN Riga
- BS Zemgale
- Rujiena SS
- Cesis PSS
- Bertans Valmiera BS
- BS Keizars
- Altius
Gratitude to Supporters
The organizers extend their heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors and partners whose support made it possible to hold the tournament at such a high level, providing not only quality competition but also unforgettable emotions for both players and fans – Valmiera Municipality, the quick-service restaurant chain Hesburger, the construction company Aimasa, and the insurance company BALTA.
Players, coaches, and spectators also received special gifts from tournament supporters that brought joy and energy after exciting games – Tymbark, Sporta Bode, Rujiena Ice Cream, the skincare brand Avène, Saules Klingeris, Muesli Graci, and Kale. Professional photographers Emils Vanags and Elina Andersone captured memorable tournament moments and team photos, while Valmieras Udens ensured high-quality water for all participants.
