ELEVATE Testimonials
My son Anthony and I LOVE The Elevate programs! Whether it is the Thursday night spring and fall sessions, the camps or the private sessions, Elevate ROCKS!!! I have never found a program that combines the technical expertise along with the inspirational coaching as the Elevate programs do. Every single session is planned from the opening minute with high energy drills and superb instruction. Every single coach is well trained, is committed to your son getting better and enjoying the game of basketball. My son also really loves the peer group coaches too.
It never ceases to amaze me seeing the young men who can range from grade 8 to grade 12 out there working with the boys, encouraging them and getting to know them as individuals. Most of them have come from the Elevate programs and they serve as inspiration to all the boys.
Coach Janzen has managed to create a family atmosphere where boys enter and young men come out. If you want a program that is going to fully develop your son as a basketball player and as an individual Elevate is for you.
We live in east Maple Ridge and make the trek out every Thursday but for Elevate it is well worth the drive!
I have no trouble giving a personal guarantee that your son will love it. If you want him to grow as an individual, learn valuable life lessons, become a better basketball player and love the game, the Elevate programs are for you!
Tony P. (Maple Ridge)
As a high level athlete myself (Simon Fraser University Volleyball), I was searching for a great basketball program for my son that not only teaches the fundamentals of basketball but also teaches him how to be a good team mate, about commitment, work ethic, teaching great character, leadership and perseverance. ELEVATE basketball gives him all this and much more. Coach Janzen and the coaches are such unbelievable role models; they actually care about each one of their players on and off the court. The way they connect concepts to basketball but also to life is seamless. My son has loved his experience with ELEVATE since his first summer camp in 2015, we have since joined the Thursday Night League and will be continuing with the Spring Programs. Compared to other programs we have attended ELEVATE is so organized and well run. The drills they use are age appropriate but definitely push you to be better. They give instant feedback and use high school players for demoing to ensure that the skills they teach are being mastered. The level of play lends to those that are serious about the sport which leads to great competition. I don’t usually write testimonials, but I am so happy with this program that I recommend it to anyone that has a passion for the game but also wants their son to learn how to be a great person in all facets of life.
– Tanis P. (Langley)
We have had our ten year old son involved with Elevate camps and Steve Janzen for about two years. We were referred by our basketball league coordinator and over numerous enrolments, it has been a fantastic experience. Our son has participated in several of the full Elevate camps, shorter camps with focused skill training and private sessions with coach Janzen. Regardless of the session, the coaching staff does a fantastic job of skill development for all levels. Each session is motivational and encourages each player to bring the best of themselves forward while keeping the focus on everyone having a great experience. The coaching staff are also excellent role models. They are truly committed to making each player a more skilled athlete but more importantly, developing character doing something they love. We will continue to enroll in every camp we can and we would absolutely encourage anyone interested in having a great basketball experience (regardless of age or skill level) to enrol with Elevate.
– Rich N. (Langley)
My son Riley has been involved with Coach Janzen and the Elevate program for about 2 years now. He has participated in Thursday Night Hoops, summer camps, specific training session and even some private lessons. Through all these different events I have been so impressed with Coach Janzen and all the other coaches involved. Not only have they immensely improved my son’s basketball skill level, but they are also giving him an understanding of what it will take mentally to be an great all-round basketball player, in addition to being a strong, well rounded young man. Basketball is a fantastic physical sport and hopefully my son will stay with it, but learning what it takes to be a respectful, hardworking, team player by mentors and Coach Janzen, will stay with my son forever and will help him in every aspect of his life. I would totally recommend any or all of the Elevate programs and will continue to put my son in them as long as he can.
– Susan W. (Langley)
My son has attended Elevate’s Thursday Night Hoops for the last three years. When we first registered him, he wasn’t sure he wanted to join. After the first night, he was hooked. Coach Janzen and the other coaches not only train the kids to be better basketball players, they encourage the kids to value themselves and to appreciate the lessons that sport can teach them about life. My son is excited to go every Thursday. He gets a great workout and has a lot of fun doing it. As a parent, it’s exciting to see his basketball skills improving, but it’s just as exciting to know that he has some incredible mentors who are teaching him valuable life skills, as well.
– Evelyn F. (Langley)
The Elevate Basketball program is simply put AWESOME!!. Coach Janzen and the other coaches are extremely enthusiastic and wonderful to each and every kid. When you get into the gym you immediately feel the energy and know that these guys love what they are doing. You can see that they are able to push all the kids even the newest players to a higher level. The spirit and level of professionalism was very impressive to watch. The drills, games, cheers and the dancing session made the program not only a great learning environment but tones of fun. This program prepared our son to compete against 60 other players to make his highly competitive High School team. We do not think our son would have made this team if it hadn’t been for the Elevate program. This program really ‘elevated’ his game. We would highly recommend this program for anyone wanting to develop their basketball skills to the next level.
– Deb and Randy P. (Langley)
My fifteen year old son attended one of your summer camps and we both felt that this is the best one he has participated in. This program that actually taught him developmental skills, and he was impressed with how creative and unique the drills were. He felt that the coaches were more hands-on and involved in developing them as basketball players, than other camps he’s been in. No other program has brought in guest coaches before, and he appreciated how they shared their insight on personal motivation and offered encouragement. As a parent, I appreciated the thought that went into organizing a fun week for the boys, and the excellent lines of communication provided. We would highly recommend the program, and look forward to signing up for future camps!
– Lisa S. (Surrey)
Testimonials on Coach Janzen
(former teammates, coaches & opponents)
Per Guenther
Current Professional Basketball Player– Point Guard for German National Team (2010) World Championships
– 2016 BBL Allstar Game MVP
– 8 time BBL Allstar (2010-2017)
– Germany (Ulm) 2008-present
– Germany (Hagen) 2006-2008“Crossing paths with Steve at a young age certainly had a major impact on my future success in Pro-Basketball. Being exposed to such a professional approach towards his body, his mechanics and the mental aspect of shooting really left a mark. Luckily, even back then he already enjoyed teaching and sharing his knowledge with those around him. So even after shooting over 40% from 3 for 6 consecutive seasons and winning the 3-point contest in the BBL, I still implement drills I learned from him 12 years ago in my day-to-day shooting routines.”
Per Guenther (Ulm,Germany)
Novell Thomas
Former Professional & Canadian National Team Basketball PlayerProfessional:
– Austria (Eurotech Baskets Feldkirch) 2003-05
– USA (Buffalo City Thunder) 2002-03
Canadian National Team:
– Olympic Qualifiers in San Juna, Puerto Rico (2003)
– Pan-Am Games in Dominican Republic (2003)
– World Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana (2002)
– Pre-World Championships in Istanbul, Turkey (2002)
– Under 22 Tournament of the Americas Puerto Rico (1996)
– Under 22 COPABA Basketball Tournament in Panama, Finalists (1996)
Simon Fraser University:
– Team Captain
– 3 year starting point guard
– All-American honourable mention
-2 time 1st team All-star
– 1st and only triple double in PNWAC History (1997)
– SFU All-Time assist leader – single season
– SFU All-Time Career Assist Leader (NAIA)“Steve’s passion for basketball is an essential component when it comes to coaching. His years playing in university and professionally have provided him with practical experiences. Combined with his schooling as an educator, Steve has what it takes to be a strong skill development coach and role model for young basketball players”
Novell Thomas (Brandon,Manitoba)
Jacob Doerksen
Former Professional Basketball Player– Germany (Rasta Vechta) 2012-2014
– Germany (Hannover) 2011-2012
– Canada (Trinity Western University) 2007-2011“Steve’s natural ability to put the ball in the hoop combined with his work ethic has made him a deadly marksmen. Watching Steve in practice and how to translated into games, I knew I could always count on Steve to hit big shots. Steve’s years of experience as both a CIS & European professional player has given him the opportunity to be coached by various high level coaches. I was not surprised by Steve’s drive to coach youth sports. Steve’s knowledge gained from playing at a high level for so long, as well as being a teacher by trade, it is a no brainer to be coached by Steve.”
Jacob Doerksen (Surrey,Canada)
Kaela Yuen (formerly Chapdelaine)
Former Professional Basketball Player– Canada (Member of the Women’s Canadian National Team) 2002-2010
– France, Slovakia, Armenia 2008-20010
– USA (University of Oregon) 2003-2008“My very first memory of Steve Janzen is watching Steve play with the Trinity Western University men’s basketball team versus the University of Oregon men’s basketball team in an exhibition game. I was blown away by Steve’s competitive spirit. Regardless of the score or circumstance, Steve was the hardest-working player on the floor, fearless in his attack offensively and relentless in his defensive approach.
When we were both in the thick of our professional careers, I had the opportunity to get to know Steve better, in coaching alongside him at a few Athletes in Action basketball camps and in training with him during our off-season time.
As a training partner, Steve definitely pushed me to my limits mentally and physically! His competitive edge in workouts alone was contagious. Not only did he want to beat everyone else in the gym with how many shots he made, or how well he executed a move, he also wanted to beat himself with each rep he took. Steve truly inspired me to practice and train with an increased desire to win, and an enhanced desperation to be the best player on the floor.
As a coach, Steve has always been dedicated to bringing out the best in those he trains, not only as a player but as a person as well. Steve’s skill set as a pure shooter and crafty scorer is an incredible asset for any young player looking to improve their game. What sets Steve apart however, is his holistic approach in his training style. Steve believes that the hard work invested in a basketball setting is easily translated to the type of character that player will have on and off the court. When Steve engages with others, especially in a basketball setting, he has undoubtedly leaves them as better players and people.”
Kaela Yuen (Seattle,USA)
Lamar Morinia
Former Professional Basketball Player– Germany (Magdeburg) 2013-2014
– Germnay (Leipzig) 2010-2012
– Germany (Wolfenbuettel ) 2009-2010
– Germnay (Leipzig) 2008-2009
– Germany (Osnabrueck) 2007-2008
– Poland (Unia Tarnow) 2007
– Germany (Duesseldorf) 2006
– USA (New Mexico) 2005-06
– USA (Tacoma) 2005-06
– USA (Montana State University-Northern) (2000-2004)“If you have any interest in wanting to be a great shooter, I’d advise you to look no further than Steve Janzen. His amazing attention to detail and tireless work ethic allowed him to play at the highest levels in the game of basketball! He can also get you on that same level! I recommend him to anyone with the desire to want to shoot high percentages and understand what it takes to play this game at a high level!”
Lamar Morinia (USA)
Calvin Henry
Former Professional Basketball Player– Australia (Mildra) 20012-present
– Germany (Hannover) 20011-2012
– Mercer University (2006-2009)“In my eight year pro career Steve Janzen is the best shooter I have played with. I believe I am a better shooter now in my career from being able to watch Steve’s shot preparation and technique on a day to day basis.”
Calvin Henry Guenther (Mildra,Australia)
Michael Dahmen
Current Professional Basketball Manger
Former Professional Basketball Coach (Germany)– Germany (Iserlohn) 2000-present
“Steve Janzen was one of the best shooters during the last 16 years since I am responsible for the Iserlohn Kangaroos. He was a fantastic young man on and off the court, that has a tremendous work ethic. He was always 100% focused during the practise units and he did a lot of extra shooting units. We hired him, as we neede a high percentage 3 pt. shooter with a quick release. I will always remember that Steve was a great teammate and his second name should be Steve Shooter.”
Michael Dahmen (Iserlohn,Germany)
Casey Archibald
Former Professional Basketball Player– Estonia (TTU) 2010-2011
– Germany (Nordligen) 2009-2010
– Austria (Wels) 2007-2009
– University of British Columbia (2002-2007)“I have known Steve since the early 2000’s when our university teams used to battle against each other. The scouting report on Steve was always “Don’t let him shoot!” Steve and I really got to know each other when we were overseas playing professionally. That is when I got to know who Steve really was. He was a fierce competitor who took training very seriously, and someone who was very committed to mastering his craft. These are the reasons its why he excelled later in life and why he will continue to be successful. He practices what he preaches. He’s one of the most passionate people that I know. He’s relentless at what he sets his mind to. He’s exactly who I would want to coach my kids! Steve’s knowledge of the game of basketball and his ability to communicate and teach, make him an amazing coach. I trust Steve to teach the generations to come how to excel at basketball!”
Casey Archibald (Vancouver,Canada)
Stu Turnbull
Former Professional Basketball Player– Germany (Rhoendorf) 2011-2012
– Germany (Hannover) 2010-2011
- Germany (Hamburg) 2009-2010
– Canada (Carleton University) 2007-2011“I met Steve when we played professionally in Germany. I had recently come from a program at Carleton University that took perfection and shooting very seriously but Steve took it to a different level. The thing that really set him apart was how good his footwork was, his feet were always set and in the speed at which a professional game happens that is tough. It is the small but important details like that combined with his determination to be better every day that I learned from Steve.”
Stu Turnbull (Toronto,Canada)
Vladimir Nikic
Former College Basketball Coach– Canada (Kwantlen College) Former Head Coach 2013-2016
– Canada (Vancouver Titans) Former Assistant Coach 2010-2011“I have known Steve Janzen for almost twenty years. Throughout that time I have watched him work tirelessly to become an elite shooter. He put in countless hours honing his craft as a collegiate athlete, and he developed such a consistent shooting stroke that he earned the opportunity to play professional basketball in Germany. Steve’s knowledge of footwork, balance, reading screens and shooting form enabled him to succeed as a professional basketball player for many years.
Since his days as a collegiate athlete, Steve has used his knowledge of the game of basketball to develop the next generation of basketball players. Steve is an excellent coach and he provides detailed teaching and technical analysis for basketball players, especially with regards to shooting form and footwork. I highly recommend him as a shooting coach. He is one of the best!”
Vladimir Nikic (Surrey,Canada)
Malcolm Campbell
Former Professional Basketball Player– Canada (Trinity Western University) Former Assistant Coach 2004-2005
– Sweden (Helsingborg) 2002-2004
– Canada (Trinity Western University) 1997-2002“I have known Steve Janzen for almost twenty years. Throughout that time I have watched him work tirelessly to become an elite shooter. He put in countless hours honing his craft as a collegiate athlete, and he developed such a consistent shooting stroke that he earned the opportunity to play professional basketball in Germany. Steve’s knowledge of footwork, balance, reading screens and shooting form enabled him to succeed as a professional basketball player for many years.
Since his days as a collegiate athlete, Steve has used his knowledge of the game of basketball to develop the next generation of basketball players. Steve is an excellent coach and he provides detailed teaching and technical analysis for basketball players, especially with regards to shooting form and footwork. I highly recommend him as a shooting coach. He is one of the best!”
Malcolm Campbell (Abbotsford,Canada)