Episode 183! Today we are celebrating 6 YEARS of podcasting, thank you to each of our listeners, guests and subscribers!

No better way to celebrate than having a young up and coming coach with an amazing playing resume, Tevonn Walker. Tevonn comes out of Quebec and we all know the lineage and hoopers that have been developed out of that area. After a solid year at CCAA Vanier College, he made the decision to attend Valparaiso!

During his time there Tevonn won both offensive and defensive awards, he led his team in scoring and ended in the top 15 all-time at Valpo. From there a short stint overseas and in the CEBL were next, but Tevonn knew when it was time to walk away.

The journey continues on a young coaching path and Tevonn gives great reflection on what he’s been through and how he’s still learning. After coaching AAU and Division 1 he is now with the Utah Jazz and growing each day. The future is bright for this young man and we are thrilled to be sharing his story today!

Tap in!

Tevonn Walker - Guest

https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/sea-bears-assistant-coach-tevonn-walker-departs-for-nba-opportunity-team-welcomes-jerry-williams-to-coaching-staff/n-6243723

Aaron Mitchell - Host

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/

From Courtenay to California, Langley and now Haida Gwaii! Today we have the story of a guy Mitch had the chance to coach on the BC U17 team… wayyy back, and now is a coaching colleague, Mr. Cal Westbrook.

Cal’s love for competition and the game was evident early, and a few coaching mentors in his area on Vancouver Island helped nurture his basketball career and ability to compete. Some early blooming, making the Provincial Team as an underager, and the ability to score the ball made for a great high school career!

Once his time at GP Vanier Secondary came to an end, Cal started to explore some different options, deciding on heading to a D2 school in California, Cal State Stanislaus. After a frustrating Sophomore year, Cal felt like maybe it was time for some change, and he came back to play for the Trinity Western Spartans. It wasn’t a difficult decision as Cal knew players like Tyrell Mara (Portland State) and Jacob Doerksen (UVic) were heading home. A great three-year run and a national title appearance were the topping of the cake for Cal.

In the end, Cal finished his degree and now finds himself coaching and in administration in Hadai Gwaii. This part of the story is special and truly where all the good stuff happens. We appreciate Cal taking the time to be with us, and know there will be all sorts of takeaways in this one!

Tap in!

Cal Westbrook - Guest

https://varsityletters.ca/calvin-westbrook-how-the-record-setting-g-p-vanier-twu-guard-found-his-coaching-paradise-amidst-the-remote-splendour-of-haida-gwaii/

Aaron Mitchell - Host

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/

If you know, you KNOW! Collin Charles is one of the most famous players to ever come out of the Toronto area, and for good reason! Collin and his high school teammate Jamaal Magloire broke down the doors in good fashion for Canadians, and carved out great paths for themselves

Growing up in the Regent Park area with his Grandma, Collin loved hockey as a young person but quickly realized the cost that came with the sport, and decided to make a shift. He started hooping and couldn’t wait to get to Eastern Commerce and put his talents on display.

During those high school years it was a trip down to ABCD camp where it all changed for Collin. Even though he didn’t think he played well the interest started to come in and after some other trips in the states he gained the attention he so deserved! St. John’s was the choice and man did he get to play on some squads with some teammates. Felipe Lopez, Ron Artest, Zendon Hamilton, Erick Barkley and so many more.

Collin is now an educator back in Toronto and involved in coaching with his Toronto Gauchos and Little Hoopers programs. A story that can’t be missed, make sure you tap in!

Collin Charles - Guest

https://tmubold.ca/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/collin-charles/13

Aaron Mitchell - Host

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/