Luke Ball
Luke, Who is your hero?
My mom is my hero. No matter what is going on I know that she will always be there for me. My mom inspires me to always work hard and to never give up but above all else to be a kind person. She is the most empathetic person, she can talk to anyone and will, it takes one conversation and she will be your best friend. She will always greet you with a big hug.
How has being a basketball player changed your life?
Basketball has given me my favorite memories and people. It is also my therapy. It has allowed me to retreat in my life and decompress.
What advice can you share with kids about being a great basketball player and being a great human being?
Always strive to be the best you. Work on good habits and don’t get down on yourself for making a mistake, move on, understand what you can and cannot control. Always support your teammates and friends. I believe we should always strive to be a better teammate on and off the court. I love walking into the gym and seeing friends from all over San Diego. The basketball community is like a second family to me.
What do you do to ensure your mental health is as strong as your physical health?
Prioritize your health. Over the years I have experienced many injuries due to over work and stress. So I have learned to listen to my body. If something is hurting it’s a good idea to stop. Slow down before it becomes worse. In life and on the court.Luke,
Who is your hero?
My mom is my hero. No matter what is going on I know that she will always be there for me. My mom inspires me to always work hard and to never give up but above all else to be a kind person. She is the most empathetic person, she can talk to anyone and will, it takes one conversation and she will be your best friend. She will always greet you with a big hug.
How has being a basketball player changed your life?
Basketball has given me my favorite memories and people. It is also my therapy. It has allowed me to retreat in my life and decompress.
What advice can you share with kids about being a great basketball player and being a great human being?
Always strive to be the best you. Work on good habits and don’t get down on yourself for making a mistake, move on, understand what you can and cannot control. Always support your teammates and friends. I believe we should always strive to be a better teammate on and off the court. I love walking into the gym and seeing friends from all over San Diego. The basketball community is like a second family to me.
What do you do to ensure your mental health is as strong as your physical health?
Prioritize your health. Over the years I have experienced many injuries due to over work and stress. So I have learned to listen to my body. If something is hurting it’s a good idea to stop. Slow down before it becomes worse. In life and on the court.
Who in your life brings you love and encouragement?
I love my mom, dad, sister, and my boys. I always love my West Coast Elite family and Bishop’s family, I appreciate all of the awesome coaches that have raised me in the gym. I have been lucky to play for some of the best coaches.
How old are you and what is the biggest lesson you have learned in your life?
I am 18 years old. The biggest lesson I have learned is how important it is to look out for others, care about people and support them.
What is one of your biggest struggles you’ve faced?
Injuries. It is one of the most depleateing feelings I’ve felt. When you can’t play or exercise depression hits. However, I have learned to ignore feeling bad for myself and focus on recovery and helping my team without playing. All of my injuries have inspired me to help others. I have learned from physical therapist and orthopedic surgeons about recovery and injury and prevention in addition to mental wellness.
What do you wish adults would understand about young people today?
I want adults to understand that there is a lot more going on in our lives than what it seems.
What would you like to say to the ones you love?
Thank you for coming to my games and making sacrifices so I may have access to a gym, trainers, physical therapists, travel teams and the best coaches. Thank you for being there even when I don’t have time to talk in between games and I’m too tired to talk after.
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