Meet the coaches.

Michael is the co-founder of Core Basketball Academy and a dad of two young toddler girls.

He has over 15 years of experience coaching youth basketball with South Burnaby Metro Club, working with U10 to U13 teams ranging from house league to elite level. He also has 5 years of high school coaching experience with the senior boys at St. Thomas More Collegiate.

Basketball has always been a big part of Michael’s life. His parents met on a basketball court, and he grew up around the game. After having kids of his own, he wanted to create a program where young kids could be introduced to basketball in a fun and positive environment, while learning the fundamentals and building a love for the game.

Samantha is the co-founder of Core Basketball Academy and has been involved in basketball as both a player and coach for many years.

She played basketball for the University of Manitoba Bisons from 2010 to 2015. Samantha has coached with the Jr. Bisons and South Burnaby Metro Club programs, and the girls’ junior basketball team at York House School and the senior basketball team at Byrne Creek Secondary.

She has also led a variety of youth programming with Burnaby Parks and Recreation, giving her a strong appreciation for the importance of exercise, active play, and positive recreational experiences for children.

Samantha started playing basketball in Grade 7 and quickly fell in love with the game. She values the confidence, friendships, and sense of community that come from being part of a team, and strives to help young players experience those same benefits through sport.