Joel Valverde
Joel, who is your hero?
There are a lot of people I admire and look up to. But there isn’t one hero in my life at this time.
How has being a basketball player changed your life?
It has greatly impacted my life in so many ways. I have so many friends and brothers that I wouldn’t have ever met without basketball. It teaches you many things that you can apply outside of the gym. If you’re able to deal with adversity on the court, why can’t you do that in the real world as well?
What advice can you share with kids about being a great basketball player and being a great human being?
Go into every game and practice with a positive attitude.
What do you do to ensure your mental health is as strong as your physical health?
When you’re in the heat of competition or life, don’t let words tear you down. Instead, use them to build you up. The mental part of basketball is debatably the hardest part. You need to make sure you’re feeding positive things into your mind.
What does self love mean to you?
To be at peace with yourself. I would rather be at peace with myself and have the whole world hating on me, than having the whole world loving me but in constant war and hate with myself.
Who in your life brings you love and encouragement?
I am very grateful to have so many people in my life who care for me and want what’s best for me. I can’t go specifics but I appreciate all my family, friends, brothers, mentors, and anyone who has had anything to do with me being shaped into who I am becoming.
How old are you and what is the biggest lesson you have learned in your life?
I am 15. Don’t take anything for granted. Life can change in an instant.
How do you overcome challenges?
I give it all to God. I know that through him all things are possible and I just want to glorify Him. I give it up to Him and He guides me through it all.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Enjoy being a kid and don’t worry about acting older or about how young you are. Enjoy your life and take advantage of it.
What gets you up in the morning?
Waking up and breathing is a gift. As long as I have breath in my lungs I am going to strive to be my best and give God the glory through it all.
What are your biggest dreams?
I want to get my college paid for. My goal is to get a scholarship so that my parents don’t have to worry about finances themselves. I don’t want them to worry about pulling money out of savings for me. They have already blessed me and paid for enough stuff in my life.
To continue following Joel’s journey, click here.