Rollers U12: We learn as one

Michael Mercado Jr. practices his dribbling skills during an online workout with his fellow Rollers Basketball Club U12 players last week. (Contributed Photo)

Members of the Rollers Basketball Club’s U12 team have screen time three times a week.

Nope. They are not for online games. Actually, they are—but in preparation for actual ones—when it’s safe to go out and play basketball.

With social distancing in effect and big crowd events, such as games and training sessions barred, Rollers U12 players have now switched to technology to continue working on their skills.

Team captain Michael Mercado Jr. and his 14 teammates are working on their skills for about 30 to 40 minutes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, following instructional videos shared by RBC founder and head coach Joe Diaz and U12 coach Mike Mercado.

Diaz said that though players can work on the drills on their own free time, he and Mike still schedule to perform the drills every 5:30pm so they can practice together and learn from each other’s mistakes.

Michael, who joined RBC when he was just 10 years old, loves the dribbling drills.

Rollers Basketball Club U12 coach Mike Mercado, top right photo, watches the video of their two players during their online workout last week. (Contributed Photo)

“It’s difficult, especially for me, when I am learning how to do it with my left hand. But when you get use to it, it’s fun. I love it when our coaches tell me that I am doing the drills right,” the Mt. Carmel School student said.

He added that practicing basketball drills is one of the best things to do at this time when people are not allowed to go out.

“It gives me an opportunity to exercise and stay fit while improving my skills and having the right mindset for the game,” Michael said.

Mike added that having “online” drills will help his son, Michael, and his teammates continue their bond.

“At a young age it’s impressive how our U12 boys share a bond all because of basketball. I think the main reason is because we held consistent practices and enforced strict guidelines to groom them not only to become better basketball players, but also to be better gentlemen,” said the older Mercado, who like Diaz volunteers their time to the club to look out for the young players.

“Because of our current situation, coach Joe and I guide our players through the use of technology. Times are hard and just got harder, but we will continue to help our kids and see their progress,” the U12 coach said.

Besides his son, other members of the Rollers U12 crew are Jared Villagomez, Rance Surla, Eros and Kian Estolas, Arturo Travilla, Quinn Palacios, Marlon Bautista, Franklin Errich, Greg Perez, Derick Tenorio, Payton Pangelian, Kern Han, Moris Atalig, Julian Laitan, Daniel Sano, and Christian Lucero.