Tyrell Laing isn’t that different from all of the other athletes participating at the 2012 BC Summer Games.
Just as many of the participants do, Laing has set a goal to play at the post secondary level.
The 13-year-old from Prince George has already taken a step in the right direction by playing basketball for the boys team representing Zone 8.
However, Laing is extremely motivated to keep his dream of playing Division 1 basketball in the NCAA alive, and was part of the U-14 BC Boys’ Basketball team this season.
In order for this to happen, Laing had to leave his parents’ house in Prince George and move in with his grandmother who lives in Surrey.
“It was good to get away from everyone and be with my grandma for a little while,” Laing said.
He has been living in Surrey since the end of the school year, and will return home once his provincial training is complete by Aug. 4.
Laing says his parents have been very influential in his love for the game.
Vaughn Mueller, Laing’s head coach, believes that this chance wasn’t easy to obtain; the Laing family had to make some sacrifices for Tyrell to play at a higher level.
“For Tyrell, [playing for the provincial team] has been a gift," said Mueller. "It has been a financial hardship for his parents, but they are committed to it. I know his dad has had to pick up some extra work so he could have this opportunity."
Laing’s dream of playing for Kansas or Kentucky University is still alive.