University of Victoria Vikes

VICTORIA - Jessica Renfrew, who will suit up for the UVic Vikes women's basketball team next season, played a starring role in her team's weekend victory at the B.C. High School All-Star game.

The 5-foot-11 guard from Victoria's Claremont Secondary scored 18 points in Team Neufeld's 82-59 win over Team Luyken. The annual all-star showcase took place Saturday at UBC's War Memorial Gymnasium.

Renfrew, who was also a member of the B.C. provincial team that won silver at the 2009 Canada Summer Games, was one of the most sought-after recruits in the province and joins a Vikes team that does not lose any players to graduation.

"We are pleased that we could add the top graduating player from Vancouver Island to our program," said Vikes head coach Brian Cheng. "Jess is one of the most athletic players in the province and has the opportunity to develop into a very solid CIS player."

Earlier this season, Renfrew led Claremont to a school-best third place finish at the B.C. AAA Championship and was named First Team All-Star for the second straight year. In 2009, Claremont placed fourth at the Provincials and Renfrew was crowned Island MVP.

"Aside from the great girls and Brian's impressive coaching record, UVic's School of Social Work stood out from other schools and programs offered," said Renfrew. "I have always dreamed about helping those less fortunate than myself, especially children."

This summer, immediately after graduation, Renfrew will travel to Uganda to work at an orphanage for children who have lost their parents to AIDS.