“It’s Literally a Perfect Fit”: Erin Banting Excited to join St. Clair Women’s Basketball

The St. Clair Saints are adding size and versatility to their frontcourt in the fall when Erin Banting arrives on campus.

Head coach Andy Kiss was on hand at the University of Windsor during a JUEL basketball weekend at the Toldo Lancer Centre to watch the Brantford native, who attends Assumption College School. Banting, who plays for the Hamilton Yellow Jackets, officially committed to the Saints Saturday afternoon.

For Kiss, the fit was immediate. “When we gave her a tour, she toured St. Clair and Windsor and the nursing program here as well,” he said. “So yeah, it’s literally a perfect fit.”

Banting plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a program offered through St. Clair’s collaboration with the University of Windsor, something that played a major role in her decision.

On the court, Banting addresses a key need for the Saints.

“When you coach a team, you’re a little bit like a general manager, and one of our weaknesses was we struggled guarding teams that had strong post play,” Kiss told Powerplay Sports. “She’s going to check that box off for us now.”

Described as a dependable presence inside, Banting brings size and flexibility, with the ability to contribute on the perimeter as well.

“It’s a fabulous opportunity presented to her, to be a major player on our roster,” Kiss said. “We’re looking at her as a plug and play. She’ll have to earn her role as a starter, but that realistic opportunity sits in front of her.”

For Banting, the opportunity represents the realization of a long-term goal. “It’s really exciting. I’ve always wanted to play at a next level,” she said. “It didn’t matter if it was USports or OCAA, everything I’ve put in over the past couple years has finally paid off. I’m really happy. I can’t describe it.”

Her decision ultimately came down to both academics and environment. “I want to be a nurse,” Banting said. “When I went and toured, I thought maybe I won’t like it, but I ended up falling in love with it. Everyone here is amazing.”

A forward by trade, Banting often played center at the high school level, using her size to anchor the paint. Now, she’s expected to transition into a frontcourt role with the Saints, where she’ll have the chance to contribute right away.

Despite her on-court intensity, Banting says there’s more to her personality than meets the eye.

“I may look very intense, but in my head, I’m just laughing at myself… trying to uplift my teammates,” she said. “I just want to have fun and play.”