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TESTIMONIALS
Truer words, I've never spoken....you guys do a great job.
Thanks, Jim
I have been involved in many basketball camps/clinics over the years and what attracted me to the School of Skills for my son and daughter is their efficient use of time and emphasis on fundamentals. Their program is not a babysitting service; it is a workout from start to finish. The drills run and skills emphasized are beneficial to a basketball player at any level. The program is well structured and serious, yet delivered with care and a sense of humor. The “Skills” experience passes the true litmus test….the kids want to come back for more.
Jim Eyen
Asst. Coach Los Angeles Clippers
Even I have learned new skills from watching the kids workout. You can be confident that you’re leaving your child in hands of coaches who have an excellent understanding of the game.
I recommend School of Skills for every child who wants to learn to play basketball with the proper fundamentals.
Lisa Leslie
Three-time WNBA MVP
After more than twenty years of coaching basketball at the high school and college levels the time came for me to select a youth basketball program for my son Drew. School of Skills was the obvious choice- I knew Kory and Derek are excellent teachers of the game and their program has an excellent reputation in the community. After Drew’s first workout I knew I had made the right decision. The teaching progression School of Skills uses for developing basketball fundamentals is truly outstanding. Young players are introduced to the skills and fundamentals necessary for long term success in basketball in a positive and disciplined environment. In addition, Drew is learning life skills (teamwork, the value of hard work, listening skills, selflessness and discipline) that will help him in all his future activities. I truly believe School of Skills is the very best youth basketball program in all of Southern California.
Doug Mitchell
Varsity Basketball Coach
Bishop Montgomery High School
I have been coaching basketball at all levels, from junior high to my present position at Pepperdine University. My grandson is a member of School of Skills and I have found the instruction, interaction, and positive values taught to be of the highest caliber. As the former Head Coach at both Redondo and Mira Costa high schools, I attest that this is as fine a program as I have seen for youth in the South Bay in my 30 plus years of coaching in the South Bay.
Fundamentals are taught and stressed at the appropriate age level where these young men can master and use them in game situations. However, all that aside the kids feel part of something special and the program promotes love of the game.
Coach Jim Nielsen
Pepperdine University
Coach Kory,Thank you so much to the Coaches of School of Skills for giving Chris not only the skills in basketball but most importantly the ENCOURAGEMENT when he wasn't making his shots, the PATIENCE of a true teacher, when a student is not motivated and finally the UNENDING SUPPORT he constantly gets from the family of School of Skills.
Chris Started With SOS when he was nine years old, and we can't stress enough how thankful we are that there was an OUTSTANDING PROGRAM in the South Bay at that time, when everything was all about Volleyball. We are Proud to announce that Chris is now exercising his passion for Basketball at Redondo Union High School as a Sophomore playing varsity. Again thanks to the SOS Family, my son Jacob who is now seven, can enjoy the same EXCELLENT PROGRAM his brother Chris experienced.Arnold and Teri Fernandez
Kory, I wanted to provide a statement for your testimonial page.
If your child has dreams of becoming a very productive basketball player then the "School of Skills" is the program for him or her to develop both the mental and physical aspects of the game. I am very picky when it comes to having someone teach my kids the art of the game inside an educational environment. Too many programs just want your dollars and a high number of kids, which takes away from hands on teaching.
My son has now been with Kory for over three years and has shown tremendous improvement in both the mental and physical aspects of the game. Through Kory's tutoring, my son has become one of the top players in Southern California for the class of 2011. Kory will get your child better. However, this is not a baby sitting class and Kory will "challenge" your child. Kory wants your child to be successful.
His training methods also encourages kids to become leaders on the floor, which translates to a leader off the floor. I will continue to have my son work with Kory because I have witnessed the results. If your child truly wants to become a smarter and more productive player "School of Skills" is the place to make that happen.
Joseph Moorer
Coach Kory has coached at every level from grammar school on up through the college ranks. He coached Crossroads High School in Santa Monica to one of their two California State Titles. What I love about the School of Skills is that they teach and stress fundamentals. Kids who participate in the program truly gain a better understanding of the game and know that it’s not just about running up and down the court. One of Kory’s current students, Redondo Union’s sophomore starting point guard Chris Fernandez, recently won an award for being the most “fundamentally sound player” in the nationally acclaimed Addidas Phenom camp which had 300 high school players from all over the United States. I highly recommend the School of Skills to anyone who’s looking for their child to learn the game of basketball.”
John “JP” Penna
Kory: Here are some words for your consideration: My son Jack (J.P.) joined School of Skills about six months ago. At age 5 he was about the youngest in the group. Participation in the program has had a number of very positive impacts on him. First, his skills as a basketball player have greatly increased. Second, his listening skills and ability to focus have grown. Third, his interest in the game itself and how it should be played has taken off. Fourth, he has met and become friends with a number of very nice kids that share some of his same interests. We were a little apprehensive at first about sending our son to the program because most of the kids were older, bigger and stronger than he was. We also wondered whether the program was to intense for a 5 year old. Twice a week for an hour and a half each session seemed like it might be too much at his age. Our apprehensions quickly disappeared. The older kids accepted him into the program right away and made him feel like he belonged. They have always been very respectful of how to treat a newcomer, or a smaller kid that isn't quite as advanced as they might be. There was never any teasing or taunting, even when J.P. couldn't do the things they could do as quickly or accurately. The other kids seemed to respect the fact that he made the effort. I appreciate that because it encourages a younger or beginning player and importantly, because it models the kind of behavior I want J.P. to have when he's in their shoes.. And, the kids truly have fun while working hard at learning the game.
When J.P. first started the program he was simply that "Jack." But shortly the coaches and other kids began calling him "J.P." He liked the nickname and it has stuck. Often when we are out someplace we'll here some kid call out "hey J.P." and find out it is one of his School of Skills mates.
J.P. is 6 now. He is playing organized ball in local leagues and putting the skills he has learned to good use. Perhaps the best measuring stick of the quality of the program is that J.P. always wants to go. He has never once asked to skip one of the bi-weekly sessions. I find it pretty amazing that a program can have that kind of staying power for a kid his age. In my opinion, Kory, Derek and Cameron do a great job with the kids at School of Skills.
Keep up the good work!
Barry Pulliam
“Kory and Derek have put together a program that teaches kids skills and fundamentals equal to levels of play by kids much older. The method in which they teach these skills makes it possible for the kids to perform and understand what they are to accomplish. They not only teach basketball, but also teach discipline, good sportsmanship, respect and the classroom as being just as important as being a good ball player. My son has been involved with School of Skills for just over a year, and the improvement in his overall game is amazing.
If you have a son or daughter who is serious about learning the game, take a look at this program. Kory and Derek are very passionate in their teaching and this program is not designed as a “rec” program.”
Tod Feaster
“The School of Skills basketball program is the #1 fundamental basketball training program in the country! Running the program is Kory Zuniga and Derek Brown. Kory and Derek are excellant basketball coaches and teachers of the game. Kory and Derek have extensive backgrounds in coaching and experience as players. School of Skills will undoubtedly accelerate your childs game of basketball. From the beginners, just starting out, to the advanced players, the School of Skills system of training will make a remarkable difference for your son or daughter. My son Derek has been participating in the program for 3 years. He has made unbelieveable advancements due to the School of Skills basketball program. He is 10 years old and in 4th grade. He is currently playing competitive basketball with 13 year old seventh graders! I feel that is a tremendous acheivement!
Steve Biale
My son Adam “Munch” Winett has been with School of skills for 3 years he is 9. His advance skills and understanding of the game are due to this program.
Laurie Winett
Coach!
I just wanted to thank you for the awesome basketball experience you are providing our kids. The combination of fun, discipline, fundamentals, and fellowship has been a blessing. Watching our boys learn about expectations and constructive development at such a young age is incredible. They have really enjoyed the social aspect of the teamwork you encourage. And my wife and I value the diversity of your program with kids of both genders and many cultures all working together.
Thanks again for coaching our kids.
When will you have a clinic for the adults??
Brian Bollinger
(Father of Ben and Bear Bollinger)
Both of my boys have been attending School of Skills for six months. Their level of play and confidence has improved dramatically. Our kids play at a different level during practice. This is due to the structure, environment and coaching staff. I have never observed my kids feeling inadequate about their individual skill level. The coaches do a wonderful job of making each player feel like a star as an individual, but reinforcing that the real goal is to work well as a team.
Matthew "Bones" Woicik - age 7
Colin "Dash" Woicik - age 6
Lynda and Chris Woicik
My 13-year old son, Max, has been training with coaches Kory and Derek of School of Skills for a short time, and already there's an amazing difference in him. His ability to focus has improved, along with a better attitude towards school and of course, he looks and feels great from the 'boot camp' style training. Max is not just playing basketball, he's learning an art form, building self-confidence and creating balance in all areas of his life, while enjoying the camaraderie of the other kids.
I'm thrilled with School of Skills program and thoroughly trust and admire Coaches Kory and Derek, especially Coach Kory, who has quickly become someone my son deeply respects and can't wait to see every week. Max has not had much desire for any kind of sport or physical activity...he sure does now!
I look forward to my son's progress, not only in basketball...in his life. Thank you very much for your dedication and tireless effort in making (y)our kids better people.
Loreena Yollin
We have no doubt that whatever basketball success Max (age 13) has had so far, but more importantly whatever success he will have in the future, is largely attributable to the program at School of Skills. He looks forward to continuing as he approaches high school and prepares to play at that level.
Maria and David Wohlmuth
“School of Skills has given my son, Gordon, the necessary fundamentals and skills to succeed in basketball. The techniques used are advanced and cannot be found or matched at any of the other basketball camps/clinics. Kory and Derek are great with the kids and give them step-by-step instructions. I definitely recommend this program for anyone that wants their child to take their game to the next level.”
Gus Cardenas
If it's a question of nature vs. nurture, nature wins in a blowout! Hogan has loved basketball since he was 5 years old, not due to following in his old man's footsteps. I'm an L.A. County Lifeguard and have spent all my competitive years in the water or on the sand. Hogan is now 9 years old and up until last year has only played in the local leagues a few months a year. As much as he loved this, he was always ready to trade in his hoop shoes for fins after the season was over, or so I thought. Kory Zuniga and Derek Brown have not only brought Hogan's basketball skills to a new level, but have also created a desire and confidence that is ultimately resulting in success and, most importantly, enjoyment. School of Skills coaches not only coach basketball, but take a sincere interest in each child as a whole.
Simply put, after one year with School of Skills, my son is having more fun than ever and, I say with pride only a Dad knows, is playing some serious hoop!
Mike Inscore
As a parents of a nine year old boy, we are ecstatic in not only the major strides he is making in his basketball skills, but the teamwork, discipline, and leadership that Kory and Derek are instilling into his life. The School of skills program has made a difference in my sons confidence, self esteem, maturity level. Our 5 year old daughter can hardly wait to start.
Scott and Desaree Welch
The fundamentals my 8 and 10 year old players have learned from school of skills coaches have improved their games greatly. Passing, footwork, shooting, confidence, and game situation drecision making have put my kids in the top tier of their leagues.
Gary Henning
Thanks so much to Kory and Derek of School of Skills- They are sooooo great. Tell the guys how much we appreciate them. Kory & Derek are some of the best individuals I have ever come across. What a difference they make in childrens lives... Wow, not many people are out there like them... please let them know that - you know I' m a mush-pot and I'm so appreciative of people who truley care about kids.
Matthew & Rachel Mallon
Dear Kory and Derek, We have been so pleased to have put Brendan into the School of Skills program. Believe me, we had hesitated for a couple weeks because we didn't feel financially that it was something we could afford at that time. However, ot has been money well spent. We have seen Brandan's confidence and skills improve tremendously on th ebasketball courtLast year, he was indifferent at best about attending MBYB games. It took a couple of weeks of Bendan becoming familiar with the program and basketball and looks forward to going each time.
Having an older child who worked hard to earn a spot playing collegiate vollyball, we understand the importancec of learning the fundamentals, footwork and stratagy at an early ageand the correct way. This will enable an athlete to progress more quickly as opposed to having re-learn with the proper technique and application during the highly competitve years Thank you so much for your time and effort that you put forth into the program. We appreciate your experience, disipline, encouragement and humor used to keep the program going strong.
Darla O'Reilly
In addition to the physical basketball skills that Kory and Derek's School teach, the conceptual and mental training completes the comprehensive, team-oriented training curriculum. It is a tremendous program and unlike any that I have ever seen for kids of all ages and various skill levels.
Adam Romo
"The School of Skills program has definatly enhanced my son's basketball skills, as well as improved his competitiveness, quickness and overall athleticism. The program is providing a breath through in a balanced development of young athletes.
Michael Schmitt
Coach Kory, Derek and the School of Skills staff: Your program has brought out the basketball passion in my 8year old son. With only two months in the program his skills and interest in the game have improved tremendously. Your focused coaching and motivational techniques have taught him fundamentals while giving him confidence in his game. Most important he is having a blast! Thank you for offering such a rewarding program.
Matt Mallon
To Kory & Derek:
I have meaning to send a note to thank you for all of hard work that you and your staff has improve his skills trendously. I have nothing but good things to say about your program and I am constanly recommending it to other parents.I am very pleased with the progress that he has made in his game; he has improved his footwork, ball handling shooting and aggressiveness. Above all, his confidenceis very high. He even made the "B" team at his middle school(Paras School RB)one of only two sixth graders to make it. I can say without without a doubt that it is in large part due to School of Skills. I have had him in other clinics and camps and while they are good; they really do not come close to the skills he learned in your program. He has also learned life skills: determination, hard work, teamwork, and always trying to do your best. Once again thanks for your hard work and I look forward to Gino working with you again.
Sincerely,
Tony Altamura
Dear coaches Kory and Derek:
Nick has been part of a lot of extra circular programs in the South Bay, School of Skills program ranks at the top of my wife and I's list. Nick has learned basketball, running, coordination and team building skills. We have found Kory and Derek have been professional and create a good learning environment for the kids. We have now enrolled our daughter and we look forward to her development in your program.
Rob Lucenti
Dear Coaches Kory and Derek:
Thank you both for spending the time to teach me to play basketball. As coach Derek said the first time I came I could barely chew gum and walk at the same time. Now I have a dribble drill named after me because of you both. Basketball is one of the best things that has happened to me. It has given me a way to deal with the things that are going on in my life. Thank you for introducing me to the real world of the game. I hope to learn more and more with the guidance of School of Skills and my own determination and hard work. My life would be much different without my teammates.
Coach Derek thank you for having extra workouts. I understand that it's something that you do, not have to do. I appreciate it very much.
Coach Kory, I still remember when I was at my little brothers basketball game at Manhattan Heights and you asked me to play, If it wasn't for School of Skills I wouldn't be who I am today.
Sincerely,
Ijhman Wycoff
My son Michael has recently joined the program and not only has his game improved tremendously, but his confidence and attitude also.
Sue Sapp
Hi Coach
I have been thinking of what you spoke to me about tonight and it really hit home. To think that a program like yours and dedication and passion that you have to the children has been marginalized by any parent shocks me. I can only say that the experience that my son has had with you has moved him to a direction that his mother and I thought would not be possible.
I can remember when I was standing outside UCLA Medical Center with my wife in tears eight years ago after they had informed us that our son had Autism. Remembering the words from the doctor that the likely hood that he would ever be able to form relationship, speak or play any sport would never be possible.
The years passed and after many hours of therapy, OT and Speech Therapy he was able to muddle his way through every day life with the diagnosis barely noticeable except in the area of sports.
I still remember the first day he went to your program. I can not believe that it has been over three years already. I remember being reluctant to tell the issues that you could face with a child of this nature. After the first practice I discovered that it was unnecessary because of the way you handled him.
Your ability to judge what action to take with a child is amazing. When he started you had the patients that he needed. When he struggled you pushed him in the direction to overcome them. And when you knew he had the ability to accomplish the task you ordered you would not let him get away with doing it half way. Not once did you lower the bar and you always demanded more and made him rise to the challenge. Turning a child that could barley run into the top draft pick in most of the local rec leagues.
Two years after he started your program we had him re-examined. I honestly never celebrated more in my entire life. The same doctor from six years ago having the look of amazement on his face. His statement "Ok this is your other son and were is Alex" still ringing in my ears.
Saying that in some cases children with the diagnosis can overcome speech issue and social issues, but rarely can they overcome the motor issues.I can only speak for the Blanco family in that you and your program, dedication and wisdom will never be marginalized or taken for granted.
We look forward to the many years that we still have together and hope that other families will see the quality of you the program and people that work with you.Thanks again for all that you have done.
Alex Blanco
To: School of Skills,
Dear Kory Zuniga and staff members,
I wanted to congratulate you and your staff for your school basketball skills and to Thank You for the wonderful opportunity to allow my twins Bryan and Scott Reyes of 12 years of age to come to your excellent programs. I Juan C. Reyes (Father), saw first hand; since the end of June 2010 my two boys started to come to your program for Basketball they had an excellent and positive attitude towards the game of basketball. Now both really looks forward to the training sessions and now, both have gotten a whole lot better and learned: how to dribble the basketball, shoot the correct way, move the ball behind the back, through the legs, cross over, spin move, pull back, how make better lay up’s, how to visualize the game, learned to play defense, gained a lot more speed and other plays.
My son Scott as you know had a mild cerebral palsy at birth. He had minor fine motor and motor skills problems; since he has joined your School of Basketball skills. I Notice that both of his hands; now handles the basketball with a more natural way and making him to fully extend his arms and legs. Scott’s confidence level to play basketball is getting better and better every day. He seems to enjoy a lot more the game and he is looking forward to come in and to challenge himself more every time in each class session. My other son Bryan; He was playing for his Middle school at Dana he also love the sport of basketball; For Bryan in the other hand has growing tremendously and since Bryan came to your school he realized and I realized the big improvement in every aspect of the way he used to play game. I think in a very short time that He had spent with your wonderful and caring staff has improved a whole lot better. I love the fact that he says, “He will play for the Lakers one day” makes me realized that it may just happen. His confidence level to take the ball to the ring is much better but he still learning to work as a group. I know that they have a very long way to go. But the first step was to bring them to you. I appreciate your wonderful talent of teaching and I know for as long as both of my twins continue to come to your school of basketball to get trained and developed by you and the rest of your staff, they will continue to expand their basketball skills. I want to thank you coach Kory, Jay and the rest your caring staff.
Sincerely, 9/16/10
Juan Carlos Reyes