Thys

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

Thys loves how basketball allows him to forget everything that is going on in life outside of the game. He forgets homework, future planning, relationship struggles and just channels in on the fast pace of the basketball court. His height gives him an advantage on the court and he uses that advantage to become fearless and to dominate his opponents through both strength and resilience.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Thys is inspired by his grandfather who played soccer professionally in Holland. He wishes for an opportunity to do the same but says that he will never let basketball go. He will make it playing somewhere and after his career, he will help other children and youth to find and hone their skills and passion early on!

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

This year, Thys has organized so much of his basketball on his own. He lives between two homes and decided for himself that he wanted to pursue basketball with all he has. He has truly shown up through this journey. He walks to the community centre to play basketball every single day. When he is in a different city he will go to gyms to play on their courts. He doesn't miss a day. He has also communicated with other players to find beneficial skill building programs near him.