Being an athlete in the EABL requires discipline, dedication, and perseverance. Joe Buchanan and Matt Goodwin, two standout players from Manchester, understand the importance of hard work in order to succeed. As full-time Diploma in Sports Excellence (DiSE) students and members of the EABL Manchester Magic team, they are determined to become professional athletes. However, simply having the opportunity is not enough.
Their daily routine is demanding. Goodwin wakes up at 5:45am, leaves the house at seven, and arrives at school by half past eight. He attends lessons until four, then heads to training where he puts up his own shots for an hour and a half. After that, he trains with the EABL squad for two hours. When he finally gets home, he showers, stretches, and completes his homework. Buchanan’s schedule is just as busy. He wakes up at half past five, works out with his teammates at the National Basketball Performance Centre, attends school, hits the gym for a lift, goes back to school, practices shooting, and then trains with the EABL squad from six until eight. Despite the hectic schedule, both players understand that it is necessary to achieve their goals.
Balancing sports and academics is no easy task. Staying in shape, focusing on strength and conditioning, eating right, and getting enough sleep all require discipline. The potential rewards, however, make it all worthwhile. Access to extra court time, strength and conditioning programs, elite EABL competition, and high-level coaching are all benefits of studying DiSE qualifications. But these opportunities come at a cost.
Goodwin acknowledges that there is little room for flexibility in his schedule. He has to be strict with his time and avoid distractions. Despite being 18 years old, he understands the importance of staying focused on his goals. Buchanan and Goodwin have already experienced a taste of what their future could hold. Goodwin recently signed a deal to play in the BBL with Manchester Giants, while Buchanan is playing for the NBL Division One outfit Bradford Dragons. Both players also had the honor of representing Great Britain in international competitions.
Their experiences with the national teams have taught them valuable lessons. Buchanan emphasizes the importance of attention to detail and doing the little things well at the next level. The game becomes more challenging, with constant pressure and higher levels of play. Goodwin echoes this sentiment, highlighting the need for a high basketball IQ and constant focus. Both players have used their summer experiences to improve their training and prepare for the current season.
Working on weaknesses and persevering through tough times are essential for success. Buchanan acknowledges that there will be good days and bad days, but it’s important to keep going and learn from mistakes. Goodwin adds that believing in oneself is crucial, even in the face of setbacks and doubts. Both players emphasize the importance of self-belief and continuous improvement.
Being an EABL athlete requires discipline, dedication, and perseverance. Joe Buchanan and Matt Goodwin exemplify these qualities in their daily lives. Their commitment to their sport and their studies is admirable, and their experiences on and off the court have shaped them into resilient and determined individuals. As they continue their journey towards becoming professional athletes, they serve as an inspiration to others who aspire to reach the top.