Joseph

Joseph is an aspiring athlete and budding professional basketball player with NewVIc Knights Basketball Team. He is currently in his first year of studying Level 3 Sports Diploma. He was a former St Martin’s School student. We caught up with Joseph to find out a little more about his journey so far.

What made you choose NewVIc?

I chose to come and study at NewVIc mainly because of NewVIc Knights Basketball and basketball coach Will, who I have known for a long time. Will suggested NewVIc to me, I did some research and found out that I would have the opportunity to play a lot of basketball (I usually play point guard or shooting guard) and increase my chance to go to America and play professionally. I also discovered that a former NewVIc student went to America to play professionally.

How have you found sixth form so far?

I have found college really good so far. I have made loads of friends from all around the world, built really good relationships with my teachers and overall enjoying life at NewVIc. The college is excellent in the inclusion of everyone when it comes to their sport offering for beginners to elite level students, we are all welcomed and encouraged to participate.

Is there anything you wish you had known that you do now?

I didn’t hear about NewVIc until I got to know Will as a basketball coach. I live far from the college and travel in from Essex. The Sports Academy and the course offered is the perfect fit for me so I am happy to make that journey from home for it. Colleges near to where I live do not offer the same level of support, being at NewVIc I know that I will have the chance to get to where I want to be for my career.

Who is the most inspiring person you have ever met?

The most inspiring person I have ever met is Tom Ward. He is a British Basketballer who plays in the division 1 men's league for Worthing Thunder. He is also the Director of Basketball for an organisation called BTM which is involved with taking basketball clubs to tournaments in different countries and also selecting squads for different age groups to go out to different countries to play basketball.

I have been extremely lucky to be selected for the BTM U19 squad to go to Los Angeles next year for a week to play basketball. Tom Ward has also been doing a mentorship program with me for the last 6 months where he has helped me organise my weekly schedule for basketball and fitness training, helped me out with my diet, helped me out with my mental problems and also has taught me a lot about basketball and life, and shares with me his journey to achieving great success.

What is your advice for students considering NewVIc?

My advice would be - come to study at NewVIc! The teachers and staff are very supportive and help you with any problems you might have. There are so many opportunities to join different types of sports and teams under The Sports Academy. If you’re an athlete like me, NewVIc is the one for you.

So what’s next?

After I finish my studies at NewVIc I want to go to a university or college in America so I can have the opportunity to play professional basketball for my career. Watch this space!