Hi Corey, In 50 words or less, introduce yourself:
My Name is Corey. I have been playing basketball at Kilsyth in the NBL1 for the last 5 seasons. I also run my own business called Yarra Valley Waste. I started training/rehab with SRA shortly after tearing my ACL early in the 2023 NBL1 season.
You spent 5 years at Winona State University, What was this experience like?
It was amazing playing at WSU. I loved being in a hard working environment where you are pushed to get the best out of yourself each day. I was able to meet some amazing people who have become lifelong friends. It’s an experience I would encourage any young hooper to embark on.
What did that time away from home teach you?
Being away from home taught me how to be independent, disciplined, and the work ethic needed to put yourself in the best position to succeed.
What’s your mindset when it comes to running your own business and playing NBL1?
To stay as disciplined as best as possible. It can be a lot sometimes and that is when it is easy to take shortcuts. When you take shortcuts you get results short of your expectation. I have found that as long as I stay disciplined to my work, basketball, gym and training, good things happen.
What life lessons have you learnt from running your own business?
Someone in business told me a few years ago the same boiling water that softens the potato hardens the egg. In business there are more downs than ups. It is about what you are made of, not the circumstances. So when there are circumstances that are not to your liking, do you soften like the potato or harden like the egg? Resilience is key & this is directly applicable in many aspects of life.
Tell us about your mindset when it came to rehabbing your ACL?
I just wanted to work my ass off & push every boundary I possibly could. I was strangely excited about taking on the challenge of starting something from nothing & building it back up to where it was before &/or beyond. Many similarities to starting a business…
What parts of your rehab journey stuck out to you and why?
Months 3 to 6. The first 12 weeks go by relatively quickly because there is progress – it is difficult for sure but at least there is progress and new challenges. However, 3 to 6 months becomes very mundane & I remember becoming really annoyed at how slow it was all coming along. However, it is all worth it when you finally get cleared & are able enjoy the sport that you love again.
Tell us about your experience at SRA?
Shaun & Ben at SRA have been awesome for not only my ACL rehab, but for continuing to build strength that transfers directly to on court performance. Aside from that, the environment that Shaun has cultivated at the gym is something special. It’s a great feeling being around like-minded athletes who are good people striving for their goals. It makes you better because you see the habits of other athletes that you may be able to adopt to help you in your own journey.
How has SRA Helped you in life and basketball?
Shaun was able to help me with my return to sport but more mentally than physically. He has been an incredible resource to use with his knowledge, but more importantly mental support through the tough times. I am grateful to have that sort of support whether that be a simple chat at the gym, a long call after hours, or a conditioning session together or breakfast.
What advice do you have for young athletes who want to go to college?
Try and find a situation where there is:
- A pathway for you to play (you can only get better if you are playing in your freshman or sophomore year)
- Good people who have your best interests at heart (you need someone that’s looking out for you)
- Have fun – you will create memories for a lifetime, so have fun & enjoy the process.