Raymond’s Delaney Gibb featured in new documentary

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By Heather Cameron
Westwind Weekly News

Raymond local Delaney Gibb, who is currently in Grade 12 at Raymond High School and due to graduate in June, was recently the focus of a short documentary film titled ‘DELANEY’ made by Jesse McRae Foster and his production team, Director of Photography and Editor Levi Holwell and Jaimie Stewart, filmmaker and composer.

“Our intent is to share a personal lens into Delaney’s life, on and off the court, her voice in an authentic and artistic fashion,” said Foster. “We chose to avoid the standard documentary vehicle, and focus on Delaney, her story, and to give her a voice, which is inspiring to any audience. It’s about her, not the sport. She is an incredible, mature, dedicated, inspiring young woman with poise, work ethic, and confidence that is unmatched. We know there are millions of young girls in and out of sport that are, or one day aim to be like Delaney. We hope that her story can help inspire and grow not only basketball, but ultimately create growth for young girls in all sports.”

Foster says that the documentary was inspired because a close friend and former high school basketball teammate, Bruce Dunham, reached out to him and mentioned that he had seen the most talented basketball player in his life, and suggested that he consider doing a documentary on the player.

“I asked for details, and he replied; ‘Her name is Delaney Gibb, and she’s the future of women’s basketball,’ said Foster. “I livestreamed the next Raymond Comets WBB league game in January 2023, and by the next weekend I was on my way down to Raymond.”   

Foster says that research for the documentary commenced in January 2023 and consisted of connecting with Delaney, connecting with the Gibb family, and watching every game online that was available. Production, Foster said, took place during summer 2023, and he and his team were thrilled to launch the documentary prior to the Raymond Comets WBB winning their third consecutive Alberta 4A Provincial Championship, and fittingly, Delaney’s final high school basketball game, on March 16.

“I am forever grateful for their friendship, this collaboration, and helping bring this documentary to life. I’m honoured to have them on the team,” said Foster of his production team.

Foster says that he and his team chose to forego the festival process, instead choosing to share the documentary online.

“Collectively, we felt that it was important to launch the film at this pivotal moment as Delaney transitions from high school basketball, and back into Canadian and International play, and ahead of her exciting career at BYU,” said Foster. “We are delighted from the outpour of support and exposure the documentary has received thus far. Delaney’s story is powerful, authentic, and honest, and the comments and feedback have been wonderful. We are all very proud of the documentary, but this is purely about Delaney, not the filmmakers. This is her journey, her voice, and we want to give her the exposure she deserves, and for it to continue to grow.”

Foster emphasizes that both Delaney and the Gibb family have been instrumental and supportive throughout the entire process. 

“Throughout my time getting to know Delaney, her maturity and modest nature is very humbling,” said Foster. “She is a very special person, who embraces the moments on the court, but off the court, she carries herself with confidence, but being the focal point isn’t of interest. Her teammates, family, friends, all come first, and never wants the focus on her. It’s an incredibly special attribute. She was and is excited about the documentary, and we are very thankful for her support.”

The release of the documentary is still fresh, Foster says, but it is gaining both exposure and momentum. 

“The feedback and sharing throughout the community of Raymond has been wonderful and appreciate everyone’s support,” said Foster. “We are already receiving feedback on the impact it has had on audiences of all ages, from viewers across the globe, which alone is incredible. Delaney’s story is universal, special, and is inspiring everyone, and will continue to. We hope that it impacts young girls, women’s basketball, all women’s sport, but it’s a piece for anyone and everyone. We’re extremely proud of that.”

To watch ‘DELANEY’, people can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlyqKb7eD8s&t=2s 

“This project means a lot to everyone involved,” said Foster. “Thank you to Delaney for entrusting us with this vision and her willingness to let us in to her world and thank you to the Gibbs for welcoming me and our team into their lives. Their support and encouragement means the world. The town of Raymond truly is a special community. As a single father to two young girls, I am proud to have made something that inspires them. We are all proud of, and excited for Delaney. This is just the beginning.”

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