Basketball Is Character Building - Player Says

By Robert Thomas

It may have been a quick exit from the high school junior boys playoffs after a 124 - 34 drubbing on Tuesday evening - courtesy the Central Cyclones Red team - but the loss is not phasing Vanier's Matthew Bergado.

The grade ten student will be back next season - graduating to senior boys basketball.

This, despite the fact he will likely be facing what on paper is shaping up to be a powerhouse Central Cyclones senior boys basketball squad.

It’s the love of the game and it’s character building qualities that will have Bergado coming back.

Vanier's Matthew Bergado (left) looks for teammates to set up a play while closely guarded by Central Cyclones Red's Josh Sazon at last evening's semi-final game - photo by Robert Thomas/MJ Independent

“I will definitely be trying out for senior boys next year,” Bergado said.

Asked about the Vanier team's season he said it has had its highs and lows.

“I think its been going great. There was lots of times we should have played our hardest, played our best and played the game with a little more heart,” he said.

Asked about what it’s been like to play basketball for two years at Vanier Bergado said he loved it.

“I love it. Our coaches are great. The team is awesome and there’s nothing more I could ask for.”

Bergado, whose roots trace back to the Philippines, said he never played basketball there but as far as playing basketball in Moose Jaw “it’s been fun.”

Asked if his parents have pushed him with basketball he said it was more of a supportive role for an activity he wants to be part of.

“They’ve always been supportive of me and I’m really thankful for that.”

Basketball is not only the Philippines national and number one sport its strongly woven into the culture.

For Bergado playing basketball has helped shape his character.

“It is one of the things that has pushed me to be the best person I can be. And I’m just thankful for the sport,” Bergado said.

For a full photo game report of the Central Red versus Vanier Red click the link.