There is a certain culture behind basketball; one that is glorified in films, writing and followed religiously by millions of people every year, but the truth behind basketball is far more than you see on the court. In fact, all the work that leads up to that starting whistle begins off the hardwood, a lesson Navin Ramharak learned at University, after playing basketball for most of his life.
From a young age Navin has either played basketball or been involved with it in some way, but it wasn’t until he was studying his Bachelor of Commerce and Management that he had a mentor for the first time. Somewhat shocked, but more driven than ever, it was here that he learned the true dedication and commitment it took to become the best athlete he could be. The more he learned about what he should have been doing, and how it changed his game completely, Navin quickly realized how broken the system he had learned to play basketball was, and how there were still athletes out there being taught this way.
And so, the Grizzlies were born.
The Grizzlies are more than a passion project thought up by a university student playing basketball; they are a community, built on education, dedication, commitment and above all, perseverance – ideals that Navin himself contributes to the success of himself and his athletes. Instead of being a club built around playing a sport, they are a club built around supporting one another, working out together, eating right and helping each other through loss, recovery and wins. They take the time to train the athletes not only in the strategies for the game but also on what they should be doing at home, how to be teammates off the court and workouts and drills that help with their agility, stamina and strength.
It truly is inspiring to see just how much one club has changed so many lives. At the moment the Grizzlies have coached over 250 athletes, arranged multiple camps for both parents and children, worked alongside schools with their sports department and their social media presence – documenting their various exercises, food plans and drills – ranges in the hundreds of thousands. They are a force to be reckoned with, on and off the court.
The journey for the Grizzlies has been a long but rewarding one. In the beginning it was merely a concept, a dream even, to fix a broken system and provide children with the tools they need to be successful athletes but also in life. The mission to guide them to be the best versions of themselves and provide the stepping-stones they need for their future, whether that be in the gym, on the court or even speaking with a sports psychologist. It is a comfort to know that their method is working, because Navin and his team are responsible for helping 16 students attend university on full scholarships.
That being said, Navin attributes the success of the Grizzlies to everyone that has ever been a part of the club:
“I want to personally thank all of the parents, friends, family members, supporters and most importantly our athletes for staying with us over the years and aiding in our growth. We wouldn’t be here without your continued support, guidance and friendship, thank you.”
The Grizzlies are an amazing organization, one that has defied all odds and in five years time will likely be one of the biggest clubs in Canada, if not Internationally known. It is shocking to believe that something like the Grizzlies has only been around for three years.
If you would like to see the Grizzlies play, they are next on court in Edmonton June 30th , or if you can’t make it to the game, on June 8th they are holding a silent auction to help raise money for all their athletes, one that Remedy is proud to be a part of. You can also adopt a Grizzlies athlete, helping their fees in season and also giving them the leg up they need for their future. For more info on the Grizzlies you can view their website and social media info below.
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