From Reluctance to Resilience

Every summer, CAL Sports Academy welcomes athletes of all skill levels, talents, and temperaments to our Sports Camps. Some arrive with a burning desire to improve. Others show up out of curiosity, maybe they’ve taken a few classes, spent hours practicing in their driveways, or are simply exploring their love for the game.

Then there’s Grant Dunbar, a young man blessed with natural athleticism, but who initially lacked the internal drive to truly challenge himself. For several years, Grant attended our summer basketball camps. His potential on the court was obvious. His jump shot showed promise but lacked consistency. He was confident using his dominant hand but hesitant with his off hand. Like many young players, he was still learning how to understand the game, not just playing it.

His talent surfaced when he was in his comfort zone. But whenever a drill exposed a weakness, especially his off hand, he found ways to avoid it. At the time, Grant hadn’t yet embraced the uncomfortable, yet necessary, process of growth. He leaned on what came naturally, unintentionally stalling his development.

But the summer of 2024 changed everything. Recognizing untapped potential, we took a calculated risk and invited Grant to our Next Level Camp, a high-intensity program designed for athletes who show discipline, maturity, and a hunger to grow. It was a gamble, but one we believed in. At CAL, we constantly evaluate talent, always looking for ways to unlock what lies beneath the surface. Some athletes are ready to rise. Others just need the right environment to push them.

To his immense credit, Grant rose to the occasion. He entered camp with a new attitude. He pushed through challenging drills. He competed with intensity. Most importantly, he listened, absorbed feedback, and applied it.

Coach Cordell shares “You could see a different focus in his eyes at Next Level. He started asking questions and leaning into the challenges. His private sessions with Coach Dell have been structured and tailored to meet him where he is, and he’s responding.” These experiences sparked a true shift in Grant’s mindset.

Since that pivotal summer, Grant has committed to his development. He now trains regularly in private sessions and competes in our in-house league alongside a talented group of 7th, 8th, and 9th graders, many of whom are preparing to step into high school varsity play.

Gone are the days of avoiding hard work. Grant now seeks it out. His growth in offhand dribbling and decision-making under pressure reflects intentional effort and consistency.

It’s important to note, Grant’s journey is still unfolding. He’s learning to play with purpose, sharpening his strengths, and embracing his weaknesses. But more than that, he’s discovering the power of belief, not just in his talent, but in what’s possible when hard work becomes a habit.

Growth doesn’t happen overnight. It begins the moment an athlete decides that excuses no longer define their future, when the desire comes from within, not just from a parent or coach, but from a personal decision to do the work even when no one’s watching.

At CAL Sports Academy, we witness this transformation season after season. And today, we’re proud to walk alongside Grant Dunbar as he continues his journey with intention, effort, and belief.