ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. – Hundreds of kids packed a gym in Rochester Hills recently for a chance to learn from two of Michigan’s newest national champions.
Michigan stars Elliot Cadeau and Yaxel Lendeborg teamed up with FlexWork Sports to host a youth basketball camp built around more than just fundamentals — it was about dedication, determination and drive.
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“I was just one of these kids,” Cadeau said. “I remember being at Kyrie Irving’s camp and it feels like yesterday and now I’m coming out and hosting a camp where kids are like seeing me as inspiration.”
For many of the kids, the day was one they won’t soon forget. Jackson Schalk, left the gym cradling a ball he planned to put on display at home.
“I’m going to put this in my trophy section,” he said.
Lendeborg said the energy from the crowd reinforced just how meaningful the moment was — for the players and the kids alike.
“We love them and appreciate them maybe more than they know,” Lendeborg said, “and it makes me feel really good about this turnout. I’m ready to show the kids a good time.”
Parents lined the court alongside their children for photos and handshakes, soaking in a morning spent with two of the players who helped bring home a national title.
“I’m a Michigan fan,” said Michael Schalk, Jackson’s father. “These boys have both grown up Michigan fans and I’m 36 and I haven’t seen them win a natty yet, so us getting here with my kids and my family and getting to experience that — it’s truly amazing.”
For Cadeau and Lendeborg, wearing maize and blue and feeling the fan support has been a surreal experience — and returning the love was an easy call.