Empowering Our Community @ GW Hoops: A 4-Part Series on Athlete and Parent Experiences
At GW Hoops, we believe that youth basketball development goes beyond just improving skills on the court; it involves nurturing character and fostering a sense of community among our players. This philosophy is beautifully captured in the words of a parent whose child has experienced tremendous growth in our program.
“Dom’s time with GW has been nothing short of transformative, offering him a foundation that extends far beyond basketball. Moving to a new town was challenging for Dom, but Coach Mitch quickly became a guiding influence, easing his transition and helping him find his place in the Kelowna basketball community. Thanks to Coach Mitch’s support, Dom has built a circle of friends who share his love for the game, creating a network of peers who are as much family as they are teammates. Team gatherings and group events have helped Dom feel at home and surrounded by people who genuinely care about his growth and success, providing a safe, supportive space that boosts his confidence.
GW’s approach goes beyond the game, emphasizing character development as much as athletic skills. Dom feels a strong sense of belonging here, especially through opportunities to give back by mentoring younger players and participating in volunteer work. These experiences have added further value of empathy, teamwork, and leadership, contributing to the development of young athletes in our Kelowna club basketball program.
Physically, GW’s training is helping Dom “grow his game” both on and off the court. With a balanced focus on skill-building and strength training, GW encourages its athletes to develop both the art and physical demands of basketball. The emphasis on conditioning, agility, and strength alongside shooting and strategy has helped Dom become a more versatile and confident athlete, making progress he’s genuinely proud of.
Throughout it all, GW remains grounded in its core values of “rising together” and a growth mindset. Their commitment to nurturing each athlete as a whole person is apparent in everything they do, from coaching to the friendships that form among teammates. We’re incredibly thankful and blessed for the role GW has played in Dom’s life, helping him develop as an athlete, friend, and individual."
Testimonial from Sandra Serka - GW Parent
As the founder of GW Hoops, I am proud of the commitment we’ve made to developing young athletes into well-rounded individuals. It is inspiring to see players like Dom grow not just in their basketball skills but in their character and confidence. Together, we are building a community that values personal growth and the joy of the game.
Join us in this journey of growth and character development in Kelowna basketball. Together, we can build a brighter future for our young athletes.
