2012 Alumnus Builds Relationships and Inspires Athletes through Hoops

Class of 2012 alumnus Victor Joshua is giving back to the community and inspiring up-and-coming athletes with his business and basketball training program, RespeCT Hoops.

 

Founded in 2018 with the help of a small group of friends, RespeCT Hoops is a basketball training program for athletes looking to learn the fundamentals, improve footwork and agility, maintain shooting and passing skills in the off-season, and a simple way to stay active. The program is open to athletes of all ages and skill levels.

 

“The inspiration for RespeCT Hoops came from the mentorship I received from previous coaches I had growing up, specifically Shawn Moncrief, Craig Benson, Rick Kennedy, and Keith Dickson to name a few,” said Victor. “The relationship I built with them meant more to me than any basketball game, and I intend to do the same for the following generations.”

 

Alongside Victor are the two primary coaches, Will Reeves and Jomo Bartholomew. The program meets Monday through Friday at the Farnam Neighborhood House Community Center in Fair Haven, Conn. Athletes have the opportunity to select a specialized session, which includes one-on-one training, condition lessons, and mod group games. For more career-focused athletes, personalized workout sessions can be set up. Free clinic opportunities are available every other Saturday.

 

In addition to mentoring athletes, Victor works as the Head Coach for the Connecticut Cobras Men’s Basketball team. He became involved with the team during their training camp, which was held at the Farnam Neighborhood House where he works. Following discussions with the owner that the team needed a coach, he applied on the spot and was hired by the end of the week.

 

He hung up his own jersey in 2016, but his love for the game inspired him to return as a coach. Victor commented that he does miss being out on the court, but the mentality of a player and the responsibilities as a coach align stating “everything else still feels the same; executing our game plans, how I approach the game, and communication between the players all remain the same.”

 

During his time under the pines, Victor was a three-year starter on the Boys’ Varsity Basketball team where his accolades include scoring 1,000 points, becoming the record holder for most assists in a single game totaling 20, and winning the Fairchester Athletic Championship with the team in both the 2011 and 2012 season. He reflects on his time at Hamden Hall with great fondness noting that his favorite memories were off the court with his basketball teammates – all of whom formed a tight-knit bond.

 

Victor graduated in 2016 from Saint Anslem College in Manchester, N.H., with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He currently resides in West Haven and looks forward to continuing his mentorship program and coaching post with the Connecticut Cobras