Moms with March Madness

The college basketball season is official over and congrats to UNC on claiming the title (insert shady emoji here) for 2017!  It was a horribly long and ref whistling induced game but if you are a fan of the game like my Momager friends you watched to the bitter end.  My #BlueDevils suffered an early exit from the brackets but there's always next year right?

Speaking of brackets I'll have to give kudos to Ashley Willis, a mom that knows how to pick em!  Ashley had UNC as her fav to win the tourney.  Out of my 4 bball mama friends she was the only one To Go All The Way [said in my Dick Vitale voice].  Trust me it's not easy picking a winner when it comes to bracketology, for myself my bracket was busted the first round BUT I was a 50%er when it came to the Final Four.  Unlike some of my fellow bracket playing mamas I don't use a system to figure out who's going to win.  I normally go with seeding and team likeability and mostly geographic location.  As an example Laura Fantroy roots hard for the Spartans because she's a Michigander while Christa Miller is a die hard LA girl and picked UCLA to take the crown.  I'm sure Lavar Ball was happy about that one.  If you don't get that reference then you need to up your game girl and hang with my Mommie Fab Four.

Take for example Cristina Aruta, mom of Whittier PG Jacob Aruta.  She gets so deep in bracket play that her knowledge gained her a winning of $500 in an office pool one year.  Her other reward was being shunned by the men in the office from future play.  Where they do that at?  When can the ladies get some RESPEK on their names? 

After talking with my Fab Four here are some stats that stood out to me about bracket play:

• 100% of the moms use a formalized system to choose brackets.  You name it NCAA, CBS, ESPN and the USA Today systems were used.  Electronic systems are favored.

• There really is no formula for selecting winners.  Mom Ashley fell into it because she had no other option but to watch so she joined in on the fun and now makes sure she watches till the final game. 

• Why we play.....It's a bonding experience for moms with their mates and other family members. 

• Biggest upsets this year were Duke and Villanova.  

• Most of us don't know what conference our favorite team is in.

• We all watch a variety of sports BUT college is by far our favorite.

• Let's just say trash talking isn't just for the fellas.

No matter if we picked a winner or not, it's uber fun participating in one of the most loved sports activities of the year.  I'm certain that next year each of my Fab Four as well as myself will once again take on the challenge and gain bragging rights for our favorite teams win or lose.  It's March and the Madness isn't just for the guys, us moms are gaining our rightful spot as bracket masters and we won't be denied.  See ya in 2018 and Go Blue Devils!!!!

Curvy Momager's Court | Sport Report 1 15 17

Sports news from a Momagers' POV......

Chargers with the New New

The Chargers had a week full of change.  First they decided to move to LA for the 2017 Season and change or should I say copy the Dodgers logo.  All while San Diego fans tried so hard to remain loyal but received the ultimate foul after being snubbed by the owner's non-invite to his Welcome to LA Bash.  With two pro football teams in LA and 4 (possibly 3 with Oakland moving) in the state it would seem that this not be a good move especially since the Rams just came back.  My Momager antennas are up, there's something stinky with this move.  I'll keep my carmel corn out waiting to see what happens.  In the meantime rate the new logo in the comments section on a scale from 1 (They took a bigger L then Meek Mill) or 4 (Drake status).  I'll share the results on my upcoming podcast.

K to the L to the A to the IzzY

Klay Thompson has always been a winner.  Recently his ala mater, Santa Margarita, retired his #1 jersey.  This is pretty major as no other player will be able to sport the #1 on their Eagles jersey EVER!  I guess taking the team to a championship in 2008 and then becoming a NBA Champ he definitely deserves the honor.  Klay's message to the ceremony crowd was about enjoying their time while in high school.  He was reminded of how much fun he had during his four years at the school and that he owed the school for what they did for him.  What a class act!  No pun intended.

A Sweet GiveAWay

The Cleveland Browns have linked up with University Hospital, The Ohio Lottery and Xenith Helmets to sponsor a major giveaway to high school football teams in Ohio.  Their #BrownsGiveBack initiative is geared toward promoting health and safety among young athletes.  Schools are encouraged to become Heads UP certified and then enroll in the give away.  Heads UP certification is for coaches to teach kinds the safe way to play the sport.  To enter the contest visit www.clevelandbrowns.com/fans-and-kids/promotions.html


Momager Mantra:  It may not look like it but I got this!

Curvy Momager Sport Report | 3 21 16

Well this post has taken a minute to put up.  I guess that's what happens when things start exploding!  But its always great to get back to your roots so here goes....


Prayers up for Craig Sager

We are sadden to hear about the return of Craig's leukemia and his continued battle.  The infamous

sportscaster will be featured on HBO's Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel tonight discussing his recent doctors report.  Not only do I love seeing Craig during the NBA games but really love his appreciation for the game and the players.  Praying for you Sager!

Busted, Disgusted and Can't be Trusted

Yes it's that time of the year where we all attempt to find the golden ticket to who will win the bracket challenge.  This year has been no different for me because my bracket was busted the second day.  Can you say Michigan State?  How does that happen?  Welp it's still been such an amazing bout of games I finally threw away my tissue and enjoyed the weekend's worth of games.  Great to see one of my Momager girlfriends DeAndre Bembry lead his St. Joe's team past a first round win.  Oregon banged out on them in the end but these are the stories March Madness is made of.

Mom School

Alright mom's time to get your learn on.  What would you say is one thing you get wrong when watching your favorite MVP play?  Foul calls?  Don't worry me too, I ain't shame to admit that I yell at zebras and don't have a clue, well sometimes.  So this week's Mom School is dedicated to the travel foul call.

Courtesy of BBC Sports

This call is called more than any other in games, the travel call.  When the ref rotates his arms as pictured below a player has taken a step on the court and not dribbled the ball.  This call can cause the ball to be turned over to the other team.  It's difficult to detect sometimes especially with players that travel the floor quickly but sometimes it's extremely obvious and never called, hello James Harden!  Now here's a bonus.  If your player shoots and the ball doesn't hit the rim, backboard or hoop and they attempt to touch the ball they will get a whistle, according to NBA rules.

Curvy Momager's Court | Be the 1st

That's right you can be the 1st Momager on your squad to swag out the new shirt from the Curvy Momager Collection.  Check out the new trendy university "Basketball Mom Swag" shirt on our ordering site today by clicking this link: Curvy Momager's Court 

While you're over on the site check out the "Raising My Favorite Athlete" off the shoulder shirt too!

Smooches,


Curvy Momager

Momager Dopeness | Be LillyBee Fly this Season

Hey there Momagers!  You know I am always on top of how we can rock out in the gym but look like the Divalious Moms of Athletes that we are.  Welp this post is no different.  Take a look at the haute footware splendor that will have you not only getting looks but owning them.

MSU Wedge, $88

Yes, I of course have to put the schools that my baby wants to represent one day soon.  These wedges would be so comfy standing screaming for him to shoot a 3!  The peep toe is my fav part. You won't be tardy for the party with this #Sparty peep toe!

TCU Rainboots $84

Now TCU colors are bold and in charge, what better way to rep a school right?  This ultra cute rainboot wouldn't get much wear in the gym but hey a moms gotta support ALL the school teams, football anyone?  Throw on your favorite jeans, TCU Horned Frog shirt and insert an umbrella and viola InstaStyleDiva!

Colgate Flip Flop $48

And what moms shoe gallery wouldn't be complete without a stylish flip flop?  These Colgate University flip flops give you the option of sporting some shorts or cute maxi dress in blue with a red accent.  What better way to represent your favorite baller?  Let's go Raiders!

Rest assured once we know The Phenom's final destination all three of these babies will be making an appearance in my closet.  LillyBee does have each of these selections without college emblems so you can still show some school spirit for any school, just choose the color that represents your school.  Let's go Golden Hawks!  

Monthly Momager Prayer Call | 8/7 with First Lady Stephanie Newells

Momager Dopeness | Monthly Momager prayer call

Join us sports moms! 

Curvy Momager's Court | 10,000 Hours

You think your baller works out to the max?  Check out this YouTube series 10,000 Hours shot, directed and narrated by Devin Williams.  Devin trains Washington State player Trevor Dunbar and in these vids features two brothers, The Wongs, destined to make it even though they measure under 6'0".  The workouts = intense, throw up sessions are almost mandatory....what will you do to be great?  Put in the work or talk about it?

I am officially hooked and can't wait to watch catch up on the next epi.  If you are a fan of the game, player or Momager you'll love it.  Drop a comment and let me know what you think.

Ciao,



Robin

Momager Prayer call

Please join us this Friday evening for our first Momager Prayer call.  It's a journey raising an athlete and as much support we can give each other the better our chances of being successful on the journey.  We will be led in prayer by youth minister, Reverend Christal Bell who I affectionately call my twin.  Share with your Momager friends and let's come together to pray for one another and our athletes.

My March Madness crushes

Yes it has arrived, every basketball fans favorite time of the year March Madness!  This year I can't help but share with you some of my 2015 college basketball player crushes.  Crushing because of their game not romantically.  Giving yall the #CookieLyons side eye if that is what you thought.

FIRST up is Duke point guard Tyus Jones.  This kid doesn't drive the lane he owns it.  His take no prisoners mentally when he's up against guys 4 inches taller (he measures at 6'1") is what motivates my Phenom to have a dream.  The fact that they share the same birthday, 5/10, was just far too coincidental too!  Jones is also being looked at to receive MVP of his conference this year -- impressive for a freshman.  Duke suffered a tough loss to Norte Dame last week stopping them from moving forward in the ACC Conference playoffs but a good showing is expected in upcoming NCAA tourney play.  Whatever the outcome I am sure Tyus will continue to be explosive and motivate.  

Check back tomorrow and see who else makes the list. 

The Phenom | Tshirt Tip

My child has a million and one tshirts.  From camps, teams he played on, clinics - he's kept everyone of them!  So I needed a way to keep them until he moves on to college, well maybe after college.  Never know when it might be needed for some NBA behind the scenes story (sniggle).  I found this great tip on Pinterest, tried it out and loved how it turned out.  I wonder how long he's going to keep it this way however.  If you have a man child with tons of tshirts you'll love this tip.  Comment below and tell me how it works.

Happy folding,


Curvy Momager

Moms on Fiyah | Cristina Aruta, Bikini Competition Momager

It's a New Year and many of us are looking at the scale thinking I Can't.  Well trust me you CAN!  Don't believe me?  Just keep reading about one of my favorite Momager girlfriends and how she at the fabulous age of above 21 is working the bikini competition circuit.  Managing the basketball career of her son that she affectionally calls The Yellow Mamba, keeping the fire in her marriage and living her passion is why I'm celebrating her in this edition of Moms on Fiyah.

Cristina started doing competitions after she'd torn her ACL doing muay thai kickboxing and had to have surgery.  She met a trainer that suggested she try the competition but in her mind she didn't want to be buff, he assured her there were different categories in bodybuilding: Bodybuilders, Physique, Figure and Bikini.  The bikini competitors are fit, not muscular.  She got a trainer, actually went through 4 - 5 before finding the right one.  The first one told her that she'd never have a chance at entering a competition!  (Bye Felipe)  She sure showed them having competed in not 1 but 4 competitions, 1 INBA and 3 NPC shows.

Her required training consists of 30% training and 70% diet, she says eating well is the key.  Training

Photos courtesy of Cristina Aruta

for muay thai kickboxing she didn't have good eating habits and noted her muscles and abs never "popped" out.  To get competition ready she works out with a trainer at her local gym and with a nutritionist at Max Muscle in Stockton, CA.  Additionally she also takes natural supplements like fish oil, protein powders and multi-vitamins.

Now folks check out this Momagers' daily routine:

"Wake up at 3 AM, commute for 1.5 hrs. to work from 5:30 am - 2 PM. Get home at 4PM. Prepare my training stuff and leave for the gym by 4:45. Train from 5 - 6 PM. Prep, cook and eat dinner from 6:30 - 8PM. Shower and get ready for bed. This is my daily routine. So glad my son Jacob drives now. He can take himself to practice and games. I don't train when he has games. I try to schedule my training around it. If we are traveling, I try to work out at the gyms in the hotels or a 24 hour fitness gyms, since they are all over California & Nevada. If there is no gym around, I run around the neighborhood."

And I complain about going to the gym with my 15 minute commute to work.  Mouth officially closed!

Training for a competition takes 3 months consisting of major weightlifting, cardio and a good diet.  All sugar and diary are cut out.  Heading into the week before competition it's a total carb balance, cutting some and adding others.  Training stops 2 days before competition and the prep for glamour begins.  Mani/peds, hair, tanning and makeup take place during the 2 days before and fittings for the bikini of course, which can run between $100 - $1000.  WOWSERS! Competitions last all day with prejudging during the day and winner announcements in the evening.

Bedazzled her own bikini.

Like with anything Cristina notes there is a downside to pageantry.  Due to the rigorous diet she has to follow she often has to refuse eating at events making hosts feel as if their entrees aren't up to snuff.  Some have even told her she is to old to compete but she uses that as motivation and says, "I feel like superwomen when I'm out on that stage."  She is careful not to judge herself based on the other competitors.  If she win's great, her real win is stepping up on the stage.  The best part of this venture has been her transformation from old geek working at a financial firm to bikini diva!

Think you might want to try a competition?  Cristina's best advice is, "Do it for yourself.  It's YOU vs. YOU.  Train and eat happy.  Find a balance with your food."

This beautiful bikini powerhouse is taking some off time from competitions to catch up on some gains (a gym term for building up muscle) and supporting her son in his senior year of high school basketball.  Jacob plays PG / SG for St. Mary's in Stockton, CA and reps #32.  They are focusing on college options now and getting into a great program where Jacob can continue his passion!  Check out his profile on Max Preps Jacob Aruta - Max Preps Profile.  Of course every baller has a video package and here's Jacobs':

Both Mom and son have bright futures and I thank Cristina for sharing their story with us to get the motivation for 2015 kickstarted.  I don't know about you but I'm setting my clock for a 5:30 am every day this week for Crossfit class, now I just have to train my brain.

Toodles,




Curvy Momager

The Momager is In | Getting Inspired with Stephen McDowell

Yep, basketball season is officially underway so what better time to share some inspiration with my Momager girlfriends and bring back "The Momager Is In" series.  Luckily I have the greatest story to share with you.  Point Guard Stephen McDowell is celebrating his success with a new professional team but the road to get here wasn't always easy.  The greatest thing is that his faith never wavered.  Read our interview below about how he didn't let his dreams diminish even in the roughest of life challenges.

How old were you when you realized basketball was something you were serious about?

I was 9 years old when I started playing organized basketball. Football was my first love. However, I was a lot smaller than my peers. So by age 14 I decided to let go of football and focus solely on basketball.

Who has been your biggest influences in life....in basketball?

My biggest influences in life have certainly been my parents. My mother mainly stressed the importance of academics, my father focused on entrepreneurship and athletics, and they equally encouraged us to pursue our dreams wholeheartedly. So I have to say, without a doubt, my parents were and still are my role models. 

Where did you attend college?

I attended the University of South Carolina for two years and I finished up at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga.

 

Recently you experienced a difficult time.  Can you give me some of the high's and low's you experienced during that time?

My 27th year on this earth was the roughest year of my life. In December of that year, I worked out a deal with my team in Iceland to leave that organization in order to pursue what I believed to be a better opportunity with another team. Turned out to be a dead end as the new deal fell through and I couldn't find another team to sign me for the entire year. That's 12 straight months of training and doing everything I knew to stay sharp and believe that somehow, some way a door would open for me to continue to play the game I love. 3 months passed and I stayed in the gym, believing that something would shake, I just had to stay ready. God ended up opening a door through one of my old coaches for me to go out to Impact Basketball Academy in Las Vegas, NV for 3 months to intern as a

basketball trainer while training myself on the side. This was just to keep myself in the basketball loop. I had no idea when I left my hometown in March that would be the last time I would see my dad alive. My dad survived a heart transplant 7 years earlier and ended up passing away June 12, 2013. He went in for what we all thought to be just another regular check-up to ensure things were going well with his heart. I spoke to him the day before he went in and we joked and laughed as we always did. But he did tell me he was in extreme pain and that he wasn't able to keep any food down. I'll never forget the sound of my mother's voice when she called crying in a way I've NEVER heard her cry before telling me that my dad passed away and that I just needed to come home.

 

I came home to spend time with my family, and celebrate my dad's life with family and friends. Ended up getting a job working the night shift at a local Walmart to make some money and allow myself to train during the day. I have to admit, it was during this time I was at my lowest. Almost 9 months had passed and I still had no offers. I'm working in the freezer section thinking to myself and sometimes getting frustrated with God saying to myself and Him that I know you gave me this gift, there's nothing I can do to open the door. I need you to shift things on my behalf, not because I've earned it, not because I deserve it but because You love me. Because Jesus Christ laid the price for me to be blessed, to be successful and prosper now on this earth, and because of your grace, which allowed me to see this day and brought me this far in life. A month later, a close friend of my dad's stepped up and offered to purchase me a flight to Switzerland in order to make myself more marketable to pro teams in Europe. 

 

I forgot to mention that during this time, while it seemed like everything was going crazy externally, God was pulling on my heart now more than ever, drawing me closer and closer to Him, and increasing my dependence on Him. 

 

With the new door open in Switzerland, I continued to train and actually signed a contract with a team in the top league only to have it voided the as the team was not able to secure a work permit for me. Now I was back to square one, grinding daily to develop the gifts I knew God had given me with no outlet to display it. Something deep inside my heart told me to keep pushing. That no matter what it looked like, God already had a door open, He was just preparing me so when it opened I could step through with His boldness and His confidence and shine in a manner that brings Him glory. December 2013, my old trainer from Indianapolis contacted me about an opportunity in Canada to play for the London Lightning. After 12 months of having every thought known to man run through my mind, including stints of depression where I doubted things would ever shift for me, I was finally able to suit up and get back to what I loved doing in January of 2014.

 

This is just a small glimpse into how God has shown up and showed out in my life. He can and wants to do the same for all of His children. NO MATTER WHAT things look like on the outside, continue to believe that God has something special in store for you. Just continue to persevere and push through the storm. I didn't do anything to deserve God's blessings but simply believe in His son Jesus Christ. I believed and still believe that because of the sacrifices Jesus had already made, Jesus himself paid the price for me to blessed now on this earth. My favorite scripture to describe this season of my life is from Psalm 27:13 "I would have lost heart unless I had believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." Don't lose heart, just believe that you will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living if you don't give up.

If you could pick an all star team who would be on it?

If I could pick an All-Star team I'd call it my All-Faith team and have players like Tamika Catchings, Stephen Curry, Jeremy Lin, Myself and a good friend of mine named Ricky Taylor who's playing professionally out in Ireland and runs his own basketball ministry.

Do you think it's important to stay in college and finish your degree program or if opportunities arise for basketball to be played should you take it?

My parents raised us to finish whatever we start so definitely believe it's important to graduate and earn your degree. If opportunities arise for you to play professional basketball, you should be smart and take that opportunity because not everyone is blessed to support their family through athletics. The monetary compensation is enormous, you can make in 3-5 years what a college graduate will make in a lifetime. So there's no question in my mind that you take advantage of the opportunity in front of you. However, I truly believe in educating oneself and learning how to manage the funds you've been blessed with so you can be a blessing to your family and others. You can play pro ball and still finish your degree during summer school and online courses.

You are heading to play in London (Canada) this season.  How is playing over seas different then being on a league in the states?

I guess it just depends on which league you're in. The top league in the world is the NBA, so if you're in the states and you're blessed with the ability and opportunity to play in the NBA, you'll be surrounded with the best of the best on and off the court. However there are many European leagues

and teams that are top notch organizations in terms of professionalism and how they treat their players. The London Lightning is definitely one of those organizations. They are first class with everything they do, from housing, to travel, to interaction with the community, and one of the most important factors to any professional athlete, they always ensure that you receive your money on time.

If you were not playing basketball what would you be doing?

I would most likely be coaching basketball. I truly love this game so it's hard to see myself not being involved in some way. Sports are a great way to reach a wide range of people from all over the world. People may not agree with your beliefs, culture, or even like where you're from, but they can appreciate your talent and skill, especially in an athletic environment. Sports are a way in. They're a way for God's love to shine through you and then once somebody actually gets to know you, and not just what you represent they'll say hey he or she is not so bad and now you have an opportunity to make a new friend and use your gift to encourage them in some way. 

Do you have any advice for young athletes that are aspiring to take their game to the next level after high school? 

Yes, every day you can be doing something to perfect your craft. Even on your "days off" you can be stretching, watching film, something. There are kids all over the world that are talented. But talent alone will not get you to the pros. You have to love what you do, and you have to WORK. There's no way around, it. Work hard daily to perfect your craft, not to be noticed by men, but to honor God by doing your best to master the gifts He's placed inside of you. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord and not for men." (Colossians 3:23)

Greatest moment highlight would be???

 

The greatest moment in my career was winning the Southern Conference Championship at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. Winning that game with my teammates is a moment I will never forget.

 

How much do you train, prepare for the season?

Honestly, I train every day. I truly believe that each day I could be doing something to get better. Even on my "days off" I do something to get better if it's weight lifting, pool conditioning, stretching, or extra film work. There's always something you can do to get just one step better. My college coach, friend, and mentor would always encourage me to get 1% better today. So I take that same approach today, if I can get 1% better everyday who knows how far I can go with this game and in life.

What impact has your family had on your playing, especially your mom?

Family is everything. I play to bring God glory and put a smile on my mom's face. She knows how much I love this game, it brings her joy to see me do my thing on the court. And it brings me joy to look out in the crowd and see her cheesing ear to ear as I'm out there doing what I do. I wear #13 because it's my mom's favorite number. At the end of the day, I just want to make her proud. She's sacrificed so much for our family to ensure that my sister, my brother, and myself can go all out for the dreams God's given us. It's only right to do our best to keep a smile on her face.

How important is nutrition to athletes?  Do you have a regimen you follow or a favorite power meal?

Nutrition is vital. I read somewhere that you can't out train a bad diet, and that is undoubtedly true. It's so important that you put good fuel into your body. Especially now that I'm a professional, my body is how I make my living. So I've taken great interest into learning how to eat healthier and choose foods that will help me maximize the body God's given me. I like to eat healthy salads, vegetables, fruit smoothies, turkey, fish, and chicken. I do my best to stay away from fast food, candy, and other sweets because I know that stuff has a negative effect on my body and can eventually effect my performance on the court.

Favorite quote or scripture

I definitely have to go back to psalms 27:13 on his one. "I would have lost heart unless I had believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living."

Adidas, Nike or what is your favorite brand?

I've actually started my own athletic brand. It's still small scale but I'm learning how to grow it step by step. I call it CDF Apparel right now. The letters stand for (C)reation (D)ominion (F)ruition. It comes from Genesis 1:26-28, which states we were CREATED in the image and likeness of God to have DOMINION over all the earth and produce FRUIT for God's Kingdom.

You can follow Stephen and his team The London Lightning here:  Lightening Basketball  Here's to a great season Stephen.  Looking forward to seeing your continued success!


 

The Phenom | Summer 500

Enter our Summer 500 contest for a chance to win The Definition of a Momager tshirt and Jason Markk sneaker cleaning kit!  It's real simple.  Just follow the directions in the description after you watch the trailer!

What are you doing with your summer?

The Phenom | The MSU Experience

First I'm going to say in no way am I an expert in the field of what to do as you travel to the road of D1 or any other college experience for your student athlete.  I'm just a mom that loves my kid and wants to make sure his dreams become reality.  I also want to share what I'm learning so that if you have a kid with the same desires they can begin to reach their goals.

Lots of people have asked, "How did your son get to attend a camp at one of the top colleges in the land?"  That's the subject we'll tackle today.

Fortunately for me I have friends that know and love that my kid has this desire to play D1 basketball.  I received a Facebook inbox message from a friend that attended Michigan State informing me that another friend's son attended a basketball camp there the previous year. Knowing that MSU is one of Kyle's top selection of schools I immediately contacted my other friend to get the low low.  The process was very simple, wait for the information to be posted on the website and register.  That's it, simple huh?

Photo Cred: m.trendspig.com

Now if your son has ever been to a camp and they headlined several high profile athletes or coaches to attend you might have been let down.  Some camps definitely don't deliver on their promises but I found out that this was not the case at the MSU camp.  Not only did my son get to meet Coach Izzo but received instruction from Spartan players and other coaches on the Michigan State University coaching staff.  It was a great experience.  So much so that I recommend all my Momagers explore it as an option when you have determined which schools are on your players "wish list".   Kyle made his wish list out 1/2 way through Freshman year and I told him that I would try to get him on each of the campuses for a camp so he could see what type of program each offers.

So far we haven't gotten any recruiting information from MSU but he had a solid camp performance. He earned the Hardest Working camper award presented to him by Coach Izzo and Travis Trice.  His travel club coach has also mentioned that he sees some improvement from the camp on his jump shot. More than anything I think his confidence soared.  Mentality is 90% of this game, without it you are going to struggle.

There are tons of camps out there for your player but you have got to do the research.  Find out what is going to work for you economically and most importantly for your players development.  If they aren't ready for some of the larger camps look for camps hosted by NBA players, former and retired. They tend to be some of the smaller ones due to popularity and costs aren't necessarily as high as you think.  Unless you are KD....his camp was like $5,000???  Sorry I pay enough for his shoes.  You can also talk with your players coach and find out about invitational camps.  Camps aren't required but they are essential in my personal opinion to let players experience something they wouldn't get by playing in tournaments with travel and school teams.  Do you need to send your player to 5 camps a year...no! One it's expensive and two I think they will get worn out.  Pick 1 maybe 2, trust me they will get what they need.

Boogie has told me that he wants to return to the MSU camp next year and I plan on letting him go

again.  I did emphasize that he needs to attend one of the other schools from his list as well.  MSU is definitely his top pick but putting all your basketballs in one basket (if you will) isn't necessary smart.  Besides the Momager has done a little research and found out that they are interested and potentially signed a PG for 2016.  Depending on who is still on the current roster MSU might not need another guard but time will tell.  Camp won't hurt though because if they saw something great in him this year it's a given if he keeps at it they will only see more.

Good luck finding a camp for your baller.  It can be difficult with the amount of selections but just pace yourself, do the research and don't overspend!  Remember we still need those Single Mama Dollas for new kicks!




The Curvy Momager

Friday Flashback

Me and Talia had some great Mother-Daughter time this week.  Both of us are missing our main dude though and we're excited to be reunited this weekend!  Off to Detroit we go. 

Here are some highlights of our week.  I think we'll be able to handle cohabitating when The Phenom leaves us for college.  Looks like Michigan State is definitely HIGH up on his list.  Check out the pics below...................

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was a very good week!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Schoooool's out fo summa!

How many of you are singing that tune along with your kids?  But wait, now the real dilemma.  What to do with them over the next three months. 

Whether you are a single, married, working or stay at home mom this always pops up after you are doing cartwheels the final week of school.  As the kids get older they start to find more and more to do but then you have to manage it all.  This year I told the kids I really want them to work on passion projects.  What do I mean by that?  Well if there is something they have been dreaming about doing I want them to do it this summer.  For The Phenom it was basketball, basketball and more basketball.  Sooooo yeah, he's going to basketball camp at one of his top four colleges he wants to attend.  But I also am forcing him, well making it obvious that he needs to take this opportunity to get prepped for the SAT.  Great SAT scores = Great Recruits is my motto so every week he has a word he has to master in addition to take about 5 test questions a week.  So on top of Bball Summer League, Bball Club League and traveling to MSU for camp he has limited time for video games and girls.  LOL.  Oh he also has summer school for the next few weeks.

Then there is The Mogul.  She's been a little out of commission with activities, I guess keeping that GPA at 3.8 was a pretty busy task.  She is glad for summer vacation and also planning to get busy with some passions.  One of those is sewing class.  Yep she is in full fashion stylista mode and picking out patterns and fabrics.  Her next project is working on curriculum with her teacher for a really special project, yep this girl is really passionate about education!  I'm happy about that too.

So Momagers I wish you well over the summer months, every day is going to bring some challenges
but get active.  Have the kids list out three passions and pinpoint them to one if not two.  Make this a summer of passion for you and them.

The Momager Is In | Andreas Schreiber

Time for our new series The Momager Is In focusing on interviewing athletes about their experiences and how their Moms shaped their decisions as it relates to sports.  This new segment will interview young, college and professional athletes and delve into their Momager relationships.  First up is Andreas Schreiber.  I met Andreas via the wonderful world of social media on Instagram.  I think you'll find his story inspiring as well as his future! 

How old were you when you started playing basketball?

I'm not sure but I think I was 10 or 11.

Did you participate in other sports?

I did karate for two years, since my father, my aunt and my uncle are all black belts, and I think that is what helped me gain control of my limbs at such a young age, even though I was so tall.

 

When did you realize you loved basketball and wanted to pursue it?

I became serious about basketball at the age of 15. I switched to a Swedish basketball school called Fryshuset (The Freeze House) after we had won several youth national championships. After a year there, I decided that I wanted to pursue college, and so I moved to Los Angeles at the age of 16 to attend a prestigious academic highschool in Westwood called Brentwood School. We decided that this was the best way to get my SATs done in time for college.

As a young player did your mom attend many of your games?  Was she involved in making decisions

about teams you'd play on etc.?

Actually, mom (Birgit Schreiber) was behind the scenes a lot while dad was always involved and that was really nice for me. If I became tired of basketball, she was the one I turned to. She made sure I was always happy, fed, and most importantly healthy, and she was my escape away from basketball. She wanted me to truly be satisfied with life, basketball or no basketball. A true mother.

How did your mom feel about you moving from Sweden all the way to America at a young age, all alone?

Mom knew that I was dreaming about America, because I was actually born there. I moved to Sweden when I was only two though. However, I was determined and she was supportive. But of course she was worried, as all mothers would be, since I was her first child, and I was moving to a different country without her to be there to support and protect me. This was before instant communication technology was available! 

 

What ways did your mom support you while growing up as an athlete?  How does she continued to support you?

Mom or "mamma" always kept every situation positive. I could have had a horrible game, but she would always find a way to either spin the situation or find a way to make me forget about it. That is one of the things I've obtained from her. In basketball, there are a lot of negative things that can happen: injuries, being fired, being cut, having a bad game, losing, hating your teammates or coach etc. Mom has taught me to see every situation in a positive light. Things have always happened for a reason in my life. I am where I am because of each tiny event that has happened, both positive and negative. She made me realize that.

 

Mom would also make sure I was fed when I came home from practice. The truth is that I was very independent at a young age. But she was there whenever I needed something. 

 

How is your career going?  What team are you playing for?  

I am a starter for the Worcester Wolves in England, and we are currently having the best season in the history of the club. I have however obtained a sickness related injury, but I am currently recovering at home in Sweden and will be back in England in two weeks. However, I am very proud of what we as a team have accomplished this year. 

If you were not a basketball player what would be your other career choice?  Did your mom think you would be something else besides a basketball player?

Mom always wanted me to be a marine biologist because that is what she was, and she currently works as a toxicologist for the Swedish Chemical Agency. And it was what I wanted to be when I was younger. I studied environmental science in college and did very well in it. I wrote my thesis on Colony Collapse Disorder in Honeybees, something my mother was also working with for her work. I am still very interested in environmental technology as well is biotechnology. She is very proud of that "environmental" part of me. 

 

I am currently bootstrapping an entrepreneurial career on top of my basketball career. The reason for this is that I have a lot of free time when I am not actually working out. I am starting two companies this summer: "The ProLete Formula" and "Evoke Socks". They are both built on a foundation of what I call "inspired design" i.e. every sale is a step to help inspire the world to do better.

 

The Prolete Formula is a workout and nutrition program that I have designed and researched for several years in an attempt to separate myself from others, and it has worked for me so far as I am currently living the professional basketball dream. I want to share this information with others, as well as advice them on the steps I have taken to be where I am at this point in my life, all related to basketball of course. I am currently hoping to connect with a "child hunger prevention in America"-program, and work on having some of the proceedings from the ProLete Formula go towards helping 15.9 million children in America to have food-security in their home. So crazy and unacceptable! That is twice the population of Sweden.

 

Evoke Socks is a cashmere business sock company that I have built on a foundation of evoking designs that represent inspiration and charity. We are currently getting involved with cancer charities around the world, and rainforest restoration programs, as well as other charities that we find fit. We believe that every sock will help aid our goal to create a positive inspiration for business men to come. 

 

My mother has always believed in charities (mostly environmental ones). I do too. I truly believe that there is a way for everyone to live well and free. 

What's next for you?

Next up is spending some time in Memphis, TN during the off season workouts and to hang out with friends. Hopefully, I will also link up with the Swedish National Team later this summer. Obviously, I will be chasing a new basketball contract as well. It is always exciting to see where I may end up. You never know.

Lastly, if you could get your mom the ultimate mother's day present what would it be?

I would give her an all inclusive trip to Hawaii. It would be heaven for her. She has never been (I have been twice), but she always talks about it. Mom is an artist as well, and paints gorgeous scenery paintings. I think she would love to get the opportunity to paint in Hawaii, as well as go on some whale watching expeditions.

 

See Momagers your inspiration is creating not only a generation of talented, athletic young people but those that want to do even greater things in the world.  A huge thank you to Andreas for sharing a piece of his life with us and an even bigger thank you to Mama Schreiber for raising a well rounded young man with so much to compassion for others.  Go Wolves!  Also to follow how Andreas is doing with is business ventures and career go to Instagram and click that FOLLOW button, IG Tag andreas_schreiber also on Twitter at @dreschreiber.

 

Next up a sit down conversation with young basketball phenom Kadar Waller.

 

Moment In Life Monday | Journey to D1

It was a weekend full of fun!  Not only did we celebrate Easter but Boogie and his team brought home the championship!!!  He has 5 more tournaments to go and summer basketball camp.  This #Journey2D1 is expensive but so worth it.  If you would love to help support his basketball dreams you can visit the Curvy Momager Facebook page and look for the Donate app.  More information is in the picture below.  It takes a village and this mama and kid would be grateful for the support.  TEAM HUNT

 

 

Moment In Life Monday - I am Piacasso

Can I just tell you that it has been an incredible weekend?  On Sunday The Phenom and his bball crew took the championship at their weekend tourney.  Go FW Extreme!  Friday night however I had a chance to do something I had been waiting to do for a long time --- paint!  Now I can be pretty creative, more so when I was younger but I never thought I would have been able to paint the masterpiece (insert grin) that you see below.  The folks at A Toast To Artistry however made it possible and our instructor was excellent.  Trust me if you don't think you can do it....YOU CAN.  We had over 50 budding artists at this event and everyone's creation was different and just as spectacular.  If you are in the So Cal area you have to go to A Toast To Artistry event.  Check their website calendar for an event near you and let your creative DIVA out!

Signing off,



The Curvy Momager