Jr Magic Spotlight

orlrclark

For this month’s OMYBA Spotlight we speak with two siblings from Oviedo who participated in our virtual camps earlier this summer. Asia and Bassel completed over two weeks of virtual camp, and have an impressive resume outside of basketball, including competing in the Special Olympics!

How old are you and how many years have you played basketball?

Asia: 17 years old and I have played basketball since I was 8 years old.

Bassel: 15 years old and I have played basketball since 7 years old.

Have you attended an Orlando Magic Youth Basketball camp in the past?

Asia & Bassel: This is our first Orlando Magic Youth Basketball camp but we have participated in many events at the YMCA sponsored by the Orlando Magic and we loved each and every one of them.

What was your favorite part of the Virtual Basketball camp?

Asia: Doing all the drills and working with an awesome coach.

Bassel:Doing all the drills and being able to participate. I wouldn’t have been able to participate if the
    camp was not virtual, so I am really happy for the opportunity.

Who is your favorite player on the Orlando Magic?

Asia: Terrance Ross and Nikola Vučević.

Bassel: Nikola Vučević and Aaron Gordon.

Asia: "Inseparable: How Family and Sacrifice Forged a Path to the NFL." The story of Shaquem and Shaquill Griffin.

Bassel: "LeBron James: The Inspiring Story of One of Basketball’s Greatest Players."

Besides playing basketball, what other activities do you enjoy?

Asia: I won gold in the State Competition in Special Olympics cycling, bowling and basketball. I am
    hoping to represent Florida in the Special Olympics US Games when they come to Orlando in 2022.

Bassel: Competing in Special Olympics basketball, bowling, cycling, watching Youtube, and practicing Judo.

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OMYBA Spotlight - Asia and Bassel

Jose Fremaint

For this month’s OMYBA Spotlight we speak with Coach Jack Lutzeier. Jack oversees the instruction of our Orlando Magic youth basketball camps and The National Basketball Academy’s Jr. Magic League.

Coach Jack, how have you and your family stayed healthy and active during self-quarantine?

We are an active family to start, so trying to quarantine with a two and four year old, as well as two active adults, has been a task. We have found multiple projects around our home (sodding our yard) that have taken some physical fitness. We also turned our garage into a workout area and venture on daily walks, runs and bike rides.

How do you plan to adapt your coaching strategies to regulations in place as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic?

There is only so much change that can be made. We have always made sure campers used good hygiene techniques and have made sure campers and staff attending weren't sick/had symptoms before attending a program. Additionally, we always clean our camp equipment daily. Going forward we will continue to follow recommendations from the CDC and increase our equipment cleaning frequency.

What skills can parents expect their children to learn during an Orlando Magic youth basketball camp?

We teach a lot of basketball at the camp: skills stations, concepts, footwork, defense, passing, shooting, etc. However, some of the things we pride ourselves with at our camps are building future leaders, teaching players to think proactively, work as a unit, and get the most out of themselves and the situations they are presented with. Another fun aspect of our camps is how we are teaching our athletes to prepare better for sports through time management, nutrition, etc. We also have aspects of our camps that help with reaction time and critical thinking. In all, our camps aren't just basketball camps, they are leadership factories.

We are excited to announce our first ever virtual camps this summer! What can participants expect from a virtual platform, and what excites you most about this new opportunity?

Participants can expect a way to continue to improve their skills and their game while practicing the safest standard of social distancing. Although some aspects can't be covered such as five vs. five games, campers can look forward to improving their individual skills to take back to the court when facilities open back up. After coaching camps across the globe for 13 years, this is a new realm for everyone. I am excited to hit this new frontier optimistically and to learn different ways we can really connect with players all over.

We are hopeful to return our traditional camps platform by the end of the summer. What excites you most about getting back in to the gym?

There is nothing our world needs more at this time than to have a sense of community. Virtual school, camp, etc. is a great alternative for the moment, however we need the connection to our community so that is what I most look forward to. Teaching the game is my passion and part of that is the high fives and the goofy nuances that happen at a camp that build lifelong relationships and memories. I look forward to the Wednesday struggle of sore muscles and the feeling of accomplishment on a Friday when we know as a staff that we have helped countless players get better at their craft and for those campers to have the sense of accomplishment for working hard and finishing a great week.

I enjoy the teaching and relationship building part of coaching the most. I have had campers who come back to coach in our program and campers who have gone on to play in the NBA/WNBA and are leaving their mark on the game. I have a sense of pride that I take on the court to teach players that when they leave they look back and say, "wow, I can't believe how much I have learned this week." I guess at the core, I'm simply a teacher of the game.

Did you participate in youth sports growing up? What sports did you enjoy playing most?

I played every sport growing up and was actually more into skiing (snow skiing) when I was younger. I loved teams sports, though, as I feel it adds a different element than other sports that can relate to the bigger picture of life.

Outside of coaching youth basketball, what is your favorite summer-time activity?

I don't have a summer activity; I am literally in the gym every day from 6a.m. - 9p.m. during the summer and have been that way for the last 13 years. However, outside of the game of basketball, I enjoy a multitude of things, such as traveling, reading, bike rides, etc. I am blessed to have an active family, so I love spending as much time with my wife and two boys as possible. My favorite thing to do outside of basketball is just be with my family.

Do you have any additional advice for young players who want to continue improving their games while at-home this summer?

Don't make an excuse! Although all excuses are valid and justifiable, no one will care in the long run. There will always be the player who finds a way to overcome and improve and there is no reason that player can't be you. Additionally, you don't have to make astronomical improvements every day, you simply need to continue growing and gaining those small improvements over time and allow them to become a big impact on your game.

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OMYBA Spotlight - Coach Jack Lutzeier

For this month’s OMYBA Spotlight we speak with M’lani Vitela. M’Lani is 14 years old and is currently in the ninth grade. In addition to being a member of our Jr. Magic program, M’lani has participated in a few of our Her Time to Play all-girls basketball clinics.

M’lani, how long have you been playing the game of basketball?

I have been playing basketball for approximately 8 years.

Are you currently involved with a local Jr. Magic team or have you participated in the past?

Yes, I am a participant in the Orange County Parks and Recreation’s South Econ Jr. Magic program.

What is your favorite part about the game of basketball?

Basketball teaches you how to work with people, you meet great people and make many friends.

Are you involved in any other youth sports?

Are there any NBA or WNBA players that you specifically follow and/or admire? If so, why?

I follow Ja Morant because he is not scared to take risks in the game, he will drive into 4 defenders &  he has a great release on his shot.  He is very inspirational because of how he plays the game and even if he messes up, he still keeps on trying to get it right.

Outside of basketball, what are some of your favorite hobbies?

I like to hang out with my family and friends, play with my dog and draw.

Have you attended a Magic game in the past? If so, what do you like about attending the games?

Yes, I have.  I like that they have different cams, like bandwagon cam & I also like how they address the magic fans and have interactive things for the crowd to do.

You have attended a few of our ‘Her Time to Play’ all-girls clinics.  What are some of the aspects that you’ve enjoyed about these events?

You can see the joy in the girls faces when they participate in these events, it brings a lot of girls together and it's a great way to make new friends who like what you like and you also get to meet people who have can give you good advice about playing.

In your opinion, why is it important for girls to participate in team sports like basketball?

Personally I think it’s important because a lot of people say that sports, like basketball and football, are “boy sports” but they don’t really know what us girls are capable of doing, so when it’s a gym full of girls enjoying and learning the game it’s more fun.  It's also important for girls to not let anyone tell them they can't do something.

I know this is a few years away, but what would you like to do after graduating high school?

I hope to get a scholarship to play basketball in college and I want to study Journalism.

March is Women’s History Month.  Are there any current or past prominent females that have inspired you?

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OMYBA Spotlight - M’lani Vitela

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For this month’s OMYBA Spotlight we speak with John Arroyo. John is one of the founders of The Skills Center, an organization that focuses on youth development on and off the court.  In this Q&A we discuss youth basketball, Magic memories and all-time NBA teams.

John, tell us about your background and experience with the game of basketball.

I grew up in a military household. My parents are from Puerto Rico and at the age of 18 my father joined the Army. Growing up in a military family can present challenges with constant moving.  However, that strengthened our bond and we have always been close and supportive of each other.  I was born in Germany, and later lived in Holland for six years.  I completed high school in Oklahoma after moving from Europe my junior year. My father and mother were always supportive and hardly missed a sporting event. After high school I went on to play college basketball for four years at Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma. Upon the conclusion of my final season, I became a graduate assistant for the university while simultaneously pursuing my master’s degree.

Growing up I enjoyed participating in youth sports and later found an interest in coaching. My father is an amazing role model and has always enjoyed coaching, teaching and helping kids. This is a driving factor in my commitment to youth sports. In 1998 I became involved with the YMCA Midnight Basketball League, a program to help keep kids off the street and out of trouble while at the same time providing an outlet through basketball.  With knowing what my father did for so many kids and seeing the impact I had with the Midnight League I knew youth basketball would always be in my life! It brings great joy to give back through the game I love.  To this very day my father coaches with The Skills Center and is also an assistant coach on a travel team that I coach for my son.

Were you involved in youth sports growing up? If so, what sports did you participate in?

I was involved in various sports from soccer, baseball, track, cross country but ultimately fell in love with basketball at an early age!

What initially drew your interest to playing?

My brother, Moad, was already playing in the Jr. Magic program and this drew my attention and interest. When he first started playing it seemed very fun so I also decided to give it a try.

When are your leagues offered throughout the year? Age ranges? Coed?

The Skills Center offers three leagues each year- fall, spring and summer. Ages range from 3 to 18 years old and the leagues are all co-ed.

Games and practices are held at The Skills Center facility as well as a Springhill Community Center in Tampa. Our relationship with the city of Tampa is a fruitful and strong partnership.

The Skills Center is so much more than youth basketball. Would you mind telling us about your organization’s mission, values and goals?

We’re a sports-based, youth development organization. We promote sports intentionally infused with life skills and academics, pursuing a purposeful development of young minds.  In addition to this, we’re a 501c3 nonprofit organization and our full focus is on creating academic & leadership success through the power of sports.  We also offer after-school programs, free tutoring, gender specific programming, life skills, travel basketball and free ACT/SAT prep.

What are some of the aspects that make The Skills Center a great destination for local youth?

In Tampa we provide a quality sports program that is academic and life skills based with positive coaches and professionals who understand the game but more importantly youth development. The Skills Center has created a family environment that welcomes all, regardless of race, gender or financial status.

What’s your favorite part of the role you serve with The Skills Center?

Knowing that I can make an impact in the life of a child on any given day! I love to help and provide a positive forum for our youth.

Do you have any special memories related to taking your participants to an Orlando Magic game?

One of the best memories was when our kids were chosen to join 321 Hype during quarter breaks. They were able to shoot and throw shirts while hyping the crowd up. Just seeing the look on the kids’ faces was amazing. I also think fondly of when they got to play on the actual court at halftime like they were NBA stars!

The NBA All-Star game is this month.  Who would be the starting five on your all-time NBA team and your all-time Magic team?

I love All-Star weekend! My son and I go every year and look forward to this year’s trip to Chicago.

Lastly, if someone is interested in The Skills Center what is the best way to learn more about potential involvement?

They can contact me directly at (813) 391-2841 or visit our website at www.theskillscenter.org.  We also are very active on Facebook.

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Youth Spotlight - John Arroyo

For this month’s OMYBA Spotlight, we speak with Cassidy Davis.  Cassidy oversees the Barnett Park Jr. Magic league with Orange County Parks and Recreation.  Learn more about Cassidy and Barnett Park here!

How long have you worked with Orange County Parks and Recreation?

I’ve been with OCPR for almost a year now, but it’s really flown by because there’s always something going on!

Have you been overseeing the Jr. Magic program at the Barnett Park location the entire time?

Yes. Since I've started I've been in the role of overseeing the youth sports here at Barnett Park. It’s been challenging at times, but I’m grateful to be able to facilitate these programs and to keep youth in the area active while improving their skills.

Did you participate in youth sports when growing up?

I’ve always been an athlete. Since I can remember there was always a practice or game to attend. From about 5-11, I mostly played tee-ball and baseball and then got into basketball in middle and high school. After beginning college at UCF, I joined the women’s rugby team and have since played for close to ten years!

When are the leagues at Barnett Park held?

We have leagues in the fall (Jr. Magic basketball and Jr. Kicks soccer), winter (Jr. Magic basketball), and spring (Jr. Kicks soccer and Youth Flag Football).

Are the teams co-ed and what age groups can participate?

What’s the best way to register for your Jr. Magic leagues?

The best way is to visit our website for more information and then stop in to see us at Barnett Park to register.

What do you enjoy most about overseeing the program?

I really enjoy seeing the players come back for another season or to try a different sport with us. I appreciate being able to hopefully start lifelong habits of staying active and creating team building/cooperation skills that the players can carry into adulthood. These experiences made a huge impact on my life and I hope to pass that down.

You recently attended an Orlando Magic game, how was your experience?

I had a great time at the Magic vs. 76ers game! We had great seats, the hospitality was exceptional, and the Magic won so I couldn’t ask for a better night!

Who is your favorite Magic player of all time?

I’m going to have to say Tracy McGrady. Not because I could tell you his stats or career accomplishments (though I know he has plenty) but because his shoes were my first pair of “basketball” shoes which sparked my interest in the sport when I was younger!

We recently entered the new year.  Did you make any resolutions for 2020?

I did not make any specific resolutions, but the New Year for me is always a good time to step back and reflect on the previous year and to look forward and plan for goals or changes I want to see happen in the year ahead.

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Youth Spotlight - Cassidy Davis

For this month’s OMYBA Spotlight we speak with Coach Jon Ortiz. Jon is a coach with our Jr. Magic Orange County Parks & Recreation League at Meadow Woods Recreation Center. He was also our Orlando Magic 2019-20 Jr. NBA Coach of the Year. Check out the video below to see Coach Jon’s favorite drill that focuses on body control and ball protection!

You received a tremendous amount of support from those involved with your leagues and teams for the Jr. NBA Coach of the Year nomination. In your own words what sets you apart as such a well-respected youth coach?

What sets me apart is my drive to be more than a coach. I care for these kids as if they were my own. We chat about school, hobbies, sports, etc. I also send them basketball homework and set aside some time after practice to just talk.

When did you begin coaching youth basketball and what age groups do you typically coach?

September 2018 was my first experience coaching youth basketball. I typically coach 9/10 years-olds but this past season I also coached 11/12 year-olds also.

The process! Helping these kids build confidence, patience, perseverance and so much more than will make them not only a great player but an even better human being. Basketball is such a great tool to teach life lessons.

Is there a specific memory of working with youth that stands out to you?

One of my first jobs ever was in a recreational center in New York City. My job was to create and set up activities for the kids to do in the gym during summer camp. I most enjoyed the feeling of being looked up too and I believe that's kind of what drives me now. It’s crazy to see things come full circle with me giving back to the community now after all these years.

Did you participate in youth sports growing up?

Yes, I played basketball and baseball all the way through high school.

Aside from coaching, what are some your top activities/hobbies?

Video games and cooking are my favorite things to do. I love experimenting in the kitchen and my favorite type of games are sports games.

You will eventually be recognized for receiving Coach of the Year at a future Orlando Magic game. Who is your favorite Magic player- both current and all-time?

Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway is my all-time favorite player and my favorite current Magic player is Markelle Fultz.

What do you enjoy most about attending Magic games?

My boy Stuff, the most electrifying mascot in all of sports, contributes big time to the fan experience. My kids and I absolutely love the OZone but the best part is the actual game. I love this game and I consider myself a student of the game so I'm always watching and learning.

Lastly, do you have any tips/recommendations for young players to work on at home given our current situation?

Keep pushing towards your goals and dreams that you’ve been working so hard on every single day. Things are tough at the moment but they will get better. A few ways to improve your game during these times are exercise, ball handling, hand/eye coordination, study film and most importantly STAY POSITIVE! Always continue to master your craft, never give up and reach out to a current/former coach. We’d love to help more than you know. Coaches are forever

Thank you for your time, Jon! We wish you and your family safety and good health during these unprecedented times.

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OMYBA Spotlight - Coach Jon Ortiz

For this month’s OMYBA Spotlight we speak with Salwa Machti.  Salwa is a 7th grade Jr. Magic participant with the All Stars Are Bright program.  She’s been with All Stars Are Bright for over three years and is a big fan of the game of basketball!

When did you first start playing the game of basketball?

I first started playing when I was around nine years old.

The other sports I participate in are volleyball and soccer and I have played these sports for all my life.

Why do you think playing sports is important for those that are your age?

I think playing sports is important for those who are my age because it is fundamental to participate in any sport while you are still young, and it is a good physical exercise.

How did you first hear about the Jr. Magic program with All Stars Are Bright?

My mom was the one that informed me about the All Stars Are Bright Jr. Magic program and asked me if I wanted to join.

What do you enjoy most about being involved with the Jr. Magic program?

What I enjoy most about the All Stars Are Bright Jr. Magic program is that the coaches teach more significantly, and they inspire me to keep working hard, I would like to thank coach George Hemmings, Coach JaJa Richards and Coach Freedom because they helped me identify my weaknesses and turned them into my strengths. I will always be grateful for all their hard work into helping me improve. So glad that I joined All Stars Are Bright while starting my basketball journey it is a very friendly and family oriented atmosphere, everyone is full of encouragement and positivity, when you sign up with this organization you are signing up to be part of a family full of very knowledgeable coaches, staff and hardworking teammates. I highly recommend the All Stars Are Bright Jr. Magic program for any age and any level.

Have you been to an Orlando Magic game recently? If so, what was your favorite memory?

I have been to an Orlando Magic game recently and my favorite memory was of Stuff.

Is there a female athlete that you follow and root for?

My favorite female athlete is Candace Parker.

What is your favorite part about the holidays?

My favorite part about the holidays is being with my family and friends. We all have a great time and enjoy it very much.

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Youth Spotlight - Salwa Machti

Organizing and running a successful Jr. Magic program is a total team effort.  That's why the Site Supervisor with Orange County Parks and Recreation’s South Econ location, Deli Gonzalez, wanted members of her staff to pitch in.  In this OMYBA Spotlight we speak with the team that helps make this Jr. Magic league so special.

Would you each mind giving us a little background about yourselves? (e.g. where are you from, did you participate in youth sports growing up, how long you've been with OCPR)

Deli Gonzalez: I have been with Orange County Parks and Recreation for over five years.  I’m originally from Virginia and was very involved with youth sports growing up.

Chris Aguirre: I’m from New York but have been with OCPR for 11 years.  I’ve been involved with youth sports throughout my entire life.

Jazlyn Welch: I’m originally from Long Island, New York and participated in gymnastics as a kid.  I’ve been with OCPR for three years.

Jazmyne Welch: I’ve been with OCPR for just under four years.  Growing up my mom was a big advocate for participation in youth sports, so it was certainly a part of my childhood.

Kevin Monoghan: As a child I played both basketball and football for 10 years.  I’m a retired Navy veteran from Connecticut and have been working with OCPR for six years.

Danny Liriano: I grew up playing basketball and football in New York.  I’ve been with OCPR for four years.

How long have you been involved with youth sports?

KM: I was a basketball coach for 10 years and have been a scorekeeper with our Jr. Magic program for six years.

When are your leagues hosted and how many participants do you typically have during each season?

DG: Our leagues take place during fall and winter and we have roughly 250 kids each season.

What makes the Orange County Parks & Recreation experience so special for a child?

DG: It gives any child, regardless of skill or age, the ability to experience something different for the first time.  Our leagues give the participants a dream and/ or goal to aspire to in life. Lastly, we provide a safe environment for our participants while offering support and encouragement.

KM: Our participants also experience the value of teamwork while learning basketball skills and fundamentals.

What is the best part of your respective role with South Econ and the Jr. Magic program?

DG: My favorite part is watching both my staff and our participants bond and grow together.

Jazmyne: I love seeing participants from past programs try something new and exciting.

CA: I consider it an honor and privilege to run this program.  Not only is it fun and exciting for our participants, it is fun and exciting for me too!

Tell us about your favorite memories from hosting a Jr. Magic league.

DG: I have so many fond memories of seeing children fall in love with the sport of basketball.  It’s so special to see them aspire to be something greater as they build confidence and grow both in basketball and in their personal lives.

CA: Watching the skill level improve as well as their overall game. Teaching sportsmanship and teamwork are memories that I'll always hold dearly.

Who is your favorite Magic player, current and/or past?

KM: Jameer Nelson.  He was a great team player and an outstanding ambassador for the city of Orlando.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner.  What is your favorite aspect of the holiday- family, food or football?

DG: I love to go back to Virginia to see the seasons change and hang out with my family.

Jazmyne: I love the food but also need to make sure I have enough rest to go early morning shopping the next day.

Jazlyn: I personally enjoy the spontaneity of spending time with different members of my friends and family each year.  It’s nice to mix things up each Thanksgiving.

DL: I’d put family and friends first, but food is a close second.

KM: Family, turkey, football and pie = the four stages of happiness.

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Youth Spotlight - The South Econ Rec Center Team

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We appreciate your understanding and flexibility.

Due to Tropical Storm Nicole, the NBA has announced that the Dallas Mavericks at Orlando Magic game on Wednesday, November 9 will tip-off at 5:30 PM. Amway Center doors open at 4:30 PM.