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Coach Who?

5 June 2024

He boasts 18 years of coaching experience, starting at the young age of 14. He’s the one and only Pure Sweat Licensed Coach in Australia. He has been at Kingston since day one instilling the core principles of hard work, dedication and mental toughness in athletes.

Starting with just a handful of athletes, his coaching journey has grown to overseeing 500+ athletes weekly. He is the creative force behind a booming basketball academy.


If you guessed Coach Andre, you’re correct.


What do you like about being a coach at Kingston Basketball Academy?

Kingston holds a special place in my heart, it is more than just my home; it has been my lifesaver.


It’s my world and it means the world to me. The environment I’ve created at Kingston is unique, particularly in Australia, where commitment and hard work are valued and rewarded. This is something that I’m extremely proud of.


As a coach, the opportunity to make a positive impact on young athletes' lives is a privilege that I do not take lightly. Being able to nurture accountability, drive, and potential in the athletes I mentor is truly rewarding.


From humble beginnings of training a small group of kids with my brother to the thriving program it is today, the journey has been remarkable.


Favourite moment in your basketball journey?

My final season with the original Kingston team (before many of us aged out of juniors) playing in the Grand Final.


We climbed the ranks from U18s D grade to B, then A, and onto 20s. We always finished in a good place for finals but couldn’t seem to get it done.


I fouled out with four minutes left, feeling helpless on the bench during the nail-biting moments.

Our top player, with only 15 seconds remaining, sank a challenging mid-range shot, giving us the lead. I thought we had it in the bag, but then the opposing team's star player made an incredible buzzer-beater, and just like that, the era with the original Kingston team was over.


I remember sitting there crying, devastated, and having to be dragged to the presentation. I remember it so well, and it is my favourite memory as it became the fuel for my determination.


Following that, my basketball game changed. I transformed my approach, training twice daily and hitting the gym six times a week. My game improved significantly.


Now, whenever I need motivation, I recall that moment, wishing I had been better, and vowing to be prepared for the next opportunity.


Favourite player and why?

Favourite player is Kobe Bryant because of the values he stands for, such as hard work and dedication, and the emphasis he puts on mental toughness, which is something I believe is crucial for young athletes today.


Kobe has been a great source of motivation for me, helping me overcome challenges and creating so many good memories as a Lakers fan. I even purchased flights and second-row tickets for myself and my brother before his retirement because I didn't want to miss the chance to watch him play live.


When I got to meet him, my hand was literally shaking so much (and I don’t get nervous with any other NBA stars) that he started laughing.


What’s for breakfast and your go to cheat meal?

Breakfast, if I am having it, is eggs on toast with cheese, spicy sauce and baked beans. Cheat meal is KFC. When I'm in the States, Chic-fil-A is my ultimate weakness – I just can't get enough of it.


Finally, what is your message to all Kingston ballers?

To all Kingston athletes, especially our U16s (as majority of our athletes are under 16) here's a crucial reminder: there are no superstars in your age groups. So many athletes tend to become complacent or give up during their teenage years. Remember, this journey is a marathon, not a sprint. If you stay committed, work hard every day for those who want it, the possibilities are endless.

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