Andre Levingston, Halifax Rainmen Owner, President and CEO

Andre Levingston considers himself a basketball aficionado. From the time he was a child basketball has been a huge part of his life. Born in Arkansas, raised in Detroit, Andre now calls Halifax his home where he his realizing his dream of owning a professional basketball team. Andre has taken the Halifax Rainmen from an idea to local celebrity status. The formula he uses is the same as how he lives his life – giving back. Off-court the team has helped kids to use the sport to build confidence in themselves and compassion for others.

Andre Levingston has also had substantial business experience. He owned and operated several business in the US and central Canada, including a communications company and a restaurant. In 2007 Andre became president and CEO of the Halifax Rainmen, Atlantic Canada’s only professional sports franchise.

In 2007-2008, Andre started a professional basketball franchise in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. In the first year he accomplished everything he set out to do, aside from winning the championship. His team led the league in attendance and professionalism. The Halifax Rainmen has a strong foothold in the community. The organization has raised the exposure of basketball in the province. The city as a whole is excited about pro-basketball being back in Halifax and the team now has the support from all of government. The Rainmen has major corporate partners and business support. Andre feels one of the most important successes is now kids in Nova Scotia can dream about being professional basketball players. Our brand is well known and well regarded by all.In a very short time, Andre has folded the Halifax Rainmen into the fabric of the Halifax Community. Under his direction his team turned up at more than 50 minor basketball games to host clinics or just to support their kids in efforts to improve their skills. With the team, he conducted motivational speaking at more than 25 schools, letting inner-city kids know they can achieve their dreams. He also participated in numerous charity events that brought much needed attention and financial support. Andre’s belief that giving back to the community is paramount to the integrity of a professional team, won him praise and credibility from the business and political communities and from the fans and public at large. Also Andre has been nominated for a Community Service award by the Nova Professional Sales Association.

This high profile attention has given him the influence to garner significant financial support for the team, and has promoted a ever-lasting partnership with government to effectively change policy that directly and in-directly effects the team and or minor sports.

His relationships continue to grow. The team now has an executive advisory board made up of business leaders who support Andre in his efforts to build credibility and relationships that will influence the success of the Halifax Rainmen.