Meet the Athlete

meet the athlete ready to slam dunK

Split Second Basketball player and Arbutus Club member, Stef Hart, is all net when it comes to her dedication on the court

When Stef Hart first started Split Second Basketball in grade 5, it was hard to imagine that in a few years she would be one of the best players on one of the best high school teams in the province. However, that's exactly where she finds herself now as a grade 11 player on the Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School Bulldogs Basketball team, which will likely be one of the top AAAA (top level) teams in British Columbia this year. Stef's hard work and persistence are paying off as she plays a significant role for her high school and Club basketball teams. With the ability to score inside and out, good size and able to defend multiple positions, Stef will be an impact player for many years to come. It has been great watching Stef find her path through basketball and watching her grow into a strong, confident, and very capable young woman.

When did you first start playing basketball?

Stef: I first started playing basketball in 2015 when I was 10 and instantly fell in love with the sport.

How is basketball unique at the Club?

S: Split Second Basketball is unique in many ways. From the experienced coaches to the overall community, it makes for a really enjoyable atmosphere to play in. Not only are all the coaches very knowledgeable on and off the court, but they also create an overall fun and competitive environment. Plus, I enjoy the top notch facilities the Club offers, including two gymnasiums, a weight room, and physiotherapy.

How have you adapted to changes in basketball throughout the pandemic?

S: Switching from playing basketball competitively against other people almost every day, to just doing skills alone was definitely a difficult task. Thankfully I have a hoop in my backyard and a coach who hosted Zoom calls multiple times a week, which allowed me to continue to further develop my individual skills and prepare me for when we could eventually start playing games again.

Meet the Athlete

What skill have you mastered in basketball that assists you in other areas of your daily life?

S: Basketball has taught me how to work in a team, communicate, and be a leader. Communication and being able to work with others are both important skills in anything that you do and playing basketball has really shown me how to expand these skills. I’ve also learned a lot about leadership, which has given me the opportunity to take on more roles of responsibility in my everyday life. Are there any teammates, coaches, staff, or trainers at the Club that have positively enhanced your basketball experience?

S: All the Split Second coaches have so much knowledge and have all taught me different important things that have had a big impact on the way I play. The Physio staff have also been helpful whenever I’ve had any sort of injury. My recovery time has always been faster, and they really know what they’re talking about and the best ways to help.

In your opinion, what is the key to perseverance in sports and athletics?

S: Perseverance in athletics is always wanting to get better. No matter how good you are there’s always room for improvement. Whether that’s developing new skills or trying to get stronger, there’s always something more you can do, which I think gives you a reason to want to continue doing what you’re doing.

What is your goal for the upcoming season?

S: My goal for the upcoming season is to talk more on defense. I’ve heard that sometimes I am quiet on the court, so this season my main goal is to be the loudest and most talkative since it’s such an important aspect of the game.

Is there a university team that you dream to be on?

After high school I hope to continue basketball at a postsecondary level playing at either UBC or UVIC. They’re both great schools academically and athletically, which is what I’m looking for in a university. What major league players do you look up to?

S: Although I do enjoy watching the WNBA, NBA and NCAA, the player I look up to most is Jess Hanson, who’s currently playing professionally in Germany. She’s coached me since I was 12 and is one of the main reasons I chose to pursue basketball. Her incredible athleticism and basketball skills are admirable, plus she always brings so much energy to the gym when she’s playing and coaching. The way Jess understands the game really shows in her coaching and playing, and I’m very grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to have played with and be coached by her.

If you could describe playing/participating in basketball with one word what would it be?

S: Rewarding. ♦

Want more information regarding our Basketball programs? Contact Head Basketball Coach, Eric Butler, at eric@splitsecondbasketball.com.