Basketball: More Than Just Play

Showing up for practice at 6:30am three or four times every week; now that’s commitment.

While most of us are still in bed, Thornlea’s basketball team is up and learning.

“It is through basketball that I learned how hard work always pays off,” says Farzad Niroui, who has been a part of the team for two years. Coach Niles simply states, “I learn from them and they learn from me.”

This team is like one big family. A bond has developed between every single player. As Coach Corey Niles puts it, “Once you’ve become a member of this team, you’re always a member.” He continues, “This is a positive activity. We work hard and have fun”.

The players see the coaches as more than just instructors, they see them as mentors as well. They are learning more than just the game. They are learning life long lessons, like how being a part of the team can mean more than just helping others improve their game.

Grade 11 student Davontae Dolphy says, “being a part of the basketball team isn’t only about learning how to play basketball. We also learn discipline, respect, and how to work with new people.” These are the skills that can serve players for the rest of their lives.

The coaches aim to help the players build character, succeed academically, to acquire the attitude of a good sport and most importantly become a part of a team.

Coaches see the importance of high academic achievements and encourage the team members to do well in their school work. Sometimes players show up in the mornings and instead of practicing, they finish homework.

The majority of past players who have been on the team for two or more years moved on to post-secondary schools; contradicting the misconception of athletes being all brawn and no brain.

Already, there are current players who are being recruited by universities in both Canada and the United States.

Team captain Dapo Badmos expresses his gratitude for the basketball team. “Being on the team has opened up a lot of doors in my life and I’m very thankful that we even have a team to play on.”

Teacher-coach Mr. Birman adds, “we’re getting a pep squad going, and we hope that everyone will come out and support”,  This is definitely one team that’s worth our support, but now these guys are only receiving half the publicity they deserve.

As for all of you out there, brace yourselves. These boys are going to bring you one unforgettable season.