UNITY — Basketball Saskatchewan is gearing up for another exciting season on the court, announcing this year’s coaches for both men’s and women’s provincial teams. Unity’s own Zenon Orobko was among those who made the cut for coaching staff.
Orobko was no stranger to sports. He excelled in football, volleyball, and basketball while attending Unity Composite High School, where his parents taught. His dad, Pat, revived the Warriors football team in 1998 and coached until stepping down after Orobko’s final season with the high school team. Mom, Vicki, continues to coach the senior girls’ volleyball team for UCHS. Even with the years of experience combined, Orobko said he has taken parts of each of their coaching styles to create his own.
“I emulate a lot of what they do in coaching; my mom’s competitive fire and my dad’s diligence to routines are just a couple of things I have adopted from them. The biggest thing I’ve learned from them is always putting the athletes first and the relationships you build along the way,” said Orobko.
This is not Orobko’s first time working with Basketball Saskatchewan though. He was an apprentice coach two years ago, learning from the head coach of the 15U men’s team, Anthony Skepple.
“He has been one of the biggest influences on me as both a basketball coach and a human being. I’m happy to call him one of my best friends today,” said the recruit.
While the new coach is finessing his coaching style, he has looked up to a variety of coaches over the years, including Chris King, Tanner Brightman, Stephen Shields and Joerik Michiels.
“These are four people who believe in transformational coaching and developing the person before the athlete, and that is something I try to emulate in my coaching as well,” added Orobko.
Orobko will not be taking on this new role solo. With Keira Dyck of Saskatoon and Jaden Cook of Regina by his side as assistant coaches, he is excited to coach the 15U women’s team.
“My coaching philosophy is growing young humans through basketball and that’s what I’m most excited for – seeing young athletes come in and their confidence and abilities grow,” said Orobko.
To prepare for this new position, Orobko will have to get certified within the National Coaches Certification Program.
“It’s a lot of work but still a blast with meeting plenty of new people across the country and being evaluated by the best coaches in the country. They are there to help me grow as a coach, which will in turn help grow basketball in Saskatchewan, so it’s always giving back to the grassroots,” he added.
Tryouts for the teams will take place April 5 and 6 in Regina and Orobko is encouraging any basketball players born in 2008 or later to try out, as there are provincial teams from 13U to 17U.
“Saskatchewan’s basketball teams are traditionally known for their chemistry and togetherness. Our province’s size is a hindrance in the overall number of girls playing, but also a strength seeing as the small pond creates pre-existing relationships and ones that will continue throughout their playing careers,” said Orobko.
The Unity native coach is excited for tryouts as this will be the first time many of the girls will play at the national level.
“Last year’s team saw three players who are still eligible for this year’s team, but my favourite part of the tryout process is seeing girls from across the province come show their skills and give their best effort,” said Orobko.
Orobko and his 15U team are set to start their season near the end of May.
