Calvo looks forward to more clinics

Guam Basketball Confederation president and Guam national basketball coach E.J. Calvo puts the CNMI national basketball pool players through the paces during last Saturday’s coaching clinic at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.(MARK RABAGO)

Guam Basketball Confederation and national coach E.J. Calvo can’t wait to return to the CNMI to conduct more clinics after a successful session last Saturday at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium that went over the 3-hour schedule. 

“My impression from the coaches that attended is a passion for the sport and willingness to learn. I have personally experienced many of the same obstacles as a coach, businessman, and leader of an organization and I was able to share what has worked for me. It was a good start and I look forward to holding more clinics for both athletes and coaches in the near future,” he said. 

Northern Mariana Islands Basketball Federation president James Lee thanked Calvo for sharing his expertise and the 22 participants of the clinic. 

Guam Basketball Confederation president and Guam national basketball coach E.J. Calvo said he can’t wait to conduct clinics in the CNMI again. (MARK RABAGO)

Participants of the coaching clinic consisted of coaches of both the CNMI senior and junior national teams, various club coaches, elementary, junior high and high school coaches, as well as college students that are majoring in education.

Sonics assistant Omar Ajoste said the coaching clinic was a great opportunity to collaborate with the neighboring island of Guam. 

“Thank you NMI basketball federation and GBC president and national team head coach, E.J. Calvo for the free coaching clinic.”

He said his biggest takeaway from the clinic was the part when Calvo shared about self care and family.

“He mentioned selfcare is key to avoid burnout. Additionally, he mentioned that his wife is a supporter of his accomplishments. Happy wife, happy life, yes sir!”

Ajoste also came out impressed how Team Guam efficiently prepares when going to off-island tournaments, which one of the main factors why they’re No. 12 in Asia and No. 79 in the FIBA World Rankings. He said Calvo shared they never leave without a medical trainer/doctor and physical therapist/health staff.

Former CNMI women’s national basketball player Connie Camacho appreciated Calvo’s insights and hopes to inculcate them in her school team. 

“I thought the clinic was a good refresher for veteran coaches and brief but very informative for new ones.”

Blue Haus coach Dan Chan, for his part, said the coaching clinic is important for relatively new coaches like him. He also hopes Calvo’s clinic won’t be the last.