Asher Cortez has loved the game of basketball since he was young and through hard work, dedication and passion, he was named to a special event, as well as being named to the AAA All Manitoba Team.
Thinking back to when his love of the game started, Cortez says it's because of someone very special. "Back in my country in the Philippines, I saw my dad playing basketball and I really liked it," the young star explains. "He saw me one time playing just for fun and he saw potential in me. As I grew up, he trained me, that's really how it all got started."
While he loved going through the process of becoming a basketball player, Cortez says it was spending time with his dad that meant the most. "It sure meant a lot. We could share our time together and I could learn from him. He taught me a lot, he showed me how to become a good player."
When he came to Canada, Cortez continued to play, but he admits it is a bit of a different game over here. "It's close to the same, but basketball there is more physical."
Coming to a new country and new program, Cortez says he was a little apprehensive at first, but his new team was quick to squash any concerns. "They welcomed me in with open arms," he says with a smile. "They supported me throughout my entire career in Winkler. I can't say enough great things about my coaches and teammates."
Cortez was selected for the Graduating A-AAA All Star Game, something he was very proud to be a part of. "It was really fun. I wasn't really expecting it, I just did my best throughout the season, I'm proud that I was able to earn that. The whole thing was good, lots of great players coming from different cities, it was so much fun playing with them."
On top of that game, Cortez was also named the AAA All Manitoba Team, an honour the young star is still wrapping his head around. "I didn't know what to say when I heard that. I still don't. I just want to thank God for that award."
He may have been the last to know, but Cortez' coaches were in the know and it took a little convincing to get him to even go to the ceremony. "I was actually planning to not go to the ceremony, but my coaches convinced me. They knew I was going to receive that award and I had no idea. It meant so much because I wouldn't have gotten to where I am if not for them. They've been so supportive throughout the season and maybe they are the reason I got the honour."
Many young athletes are coming to Canada from all over the world, just like Asher Cortez did and he has some advice for anyone in any sport, at any age. "Just keep doing your thing. Push yourself and the sky is the limit for you all the time."
As for his future, Cortez says he's open to things. "Right now, if I receive an offer, I'll keep playing basketball. But, I'm planning to pursue my future in college."
Whether it's through athletics, academics or both, Asher Cortez will bring that heart and passion, making him elite at whatever he does.