I came from Idaho to support Axel in the playoffs-Mpoyo’s mother

You might probably have seen the mother who could rarely sit down but instead cheer on players with immense passion whenever APR Basketball club were scoring and, most importantly, winning their games during the playoffs of the just-concluded basketball league season. Her name is Josie Mpoyo, a proud mother who traveled from Idaho, United States, to support her son Axel Mpoyo, a power forward who helped APR BBC win the 2023 league championship. APR conquered Rwandan basketball again when they won their first championship in 14 years with an unbeaten record during the playoffs but BK Arena witnessed a particular presence in Josie and her husband when the couple was spotted supporting their son throughout the playoffs and finals until he lifted the title. VIDEO:I came from Idaho to support Axel in the playoffs-Mpoyo’s mother A devoted Josie was always seen running to Axel on the court to congratulate him at the end of every game, a moment that was not only motivated her son but also left basketball fans out of words. ALSO: Basketball: Mpoyo reflects on the experience of playing in Rwanda The mother of four sat with Weekend Sport’s Heritier Bahizi and shared her son's basketball journey, heartwarming childhood memories and her support for his endeavors. Her story offers a touching glimpse into a mother's commitment to her son's success. Excerpts: Tell us about Axel's basketball journey and upbringing I came all the way from Boise, Idaho, to support Axel in the playoffs. When we moved to the United States back in 2000, we were unaware of the sports programs available. I recall taking Axel to basketball casually, unaware of his passion. Juggling work schedules made it challenging to support his early interest. By eighth grade, Axel's height and love for basketball became evident. We faced financial and logistical challenges but ensured his exposure to the sport. Traveling across states, I accompanied him, developing my own love for the game. He excelled in high school, opening doors for college opportunities. Through perseverance, he played for Grambling State University. Then, a video of him reached Rwanda and he was invited to play there. You've been exceptionally supportive of Axel's basketball career. How has this contributed to his success? Parental support is invaluable in a child's athletic journey. Initially, kids may find it embarrassing, especially in high school, but eventually, they embrace it. Cheering alongside fellow students, my presence in the stands became a source of strength for Axel. They recognized my voice, knowing I had basketball experience, and my guidance on plays and strategies was welcomed. My son once said he could hear me, and this parental support instills pride and motivation in them. In Africa, some parents focus solely on academics, failing to see the connection between education and sports, unlike in the United States, where poor grades mean sitting on the bench. To nurture talent, academies and sponsorships should bridge financial gaps, allowing children to excel in their beloved sports. Axel's siblings are also involved in basketball. How do they compare to his journey? I have four children, and Axel is the second. Unlike Axel, my firstborn leaned more towards academics, becoming a chemical engineer despite a brief stint in American football. However, Axel's interest in basketball prompted us to take a different approach with our other two children, Joseph Mpoyo and Mary Mpoyo, aged 21 and 20. We learned from Axel's journey and started Joseph and Mary in basketball at a young age, in the fourth grade. They joined clubs, traveled for tournaments, and I supported them every step of the way. It wasn't always easy, especially when both had simultaneous tournaments. Today, both Joseph and Mary are playing college basketball, with many offers to continue their careers here in Rwanda. However, we emphasize the importance of completing their education before making any decisions. As a parent, how do you think basketball instills values in young athletes? Engaging in sports undeniably adds significant value to a child's life. It keeps them occupied and prevents them from engaging in idle or unproductive activities. After school, they have a clear routine: homework or rest until 6pm, when practice begins, sometimes lasting for two hours until 8pm. Exhausted, they return home and go to bed. This cycle repeats daily. Consequently, they have minimal time for excessive TV watching, which often lacks educational or moral value. Some shows can lead kids to imitate inappropriate behaviors. By involving them in sports, we steer them away from these pitfalls, nurturing the values and skills we want to see in them. Balancing work and supporting children’s basketball career might be challenging. How do you manage it? The level of involvement with your children in sports largely depends on personal dedication. I've committed my time wholeheartedly, without taking regular days off. My vacations were coordinated with my kids' schedules. If my daughter had a tournament in Las Vegas, that's when I'd plan my time off. The same applied to Axel's tournaments. Sacrifice is inherent in this process. You can't simply place your kids in sports and step back; active participation is crucial for their success. Currently, I've taken a month and a half off work to be here for the playoffs. While it's not easy to be absent from work, this dedicated time is an investment in my children's growth, and I manage it accordingly. How do you see Axel's future in basketball? I can confidently say that Axel possesses an unwavering passion for winning. We engage in constant conversations, especially after a game, where we dissect his performance. I offer advice and guidance, essentially being his advisor in this journey. ALSO READ: One-on-one with Axel Mpoyo, Rwanda’s new power-forward His father is equally involved when he can, attending games and sharing insights from an outsider's perspective. We notice Axel's boundless dedication to the game. He practically lives in the gym, understanding the physical demands of basketball. He knows the importance of strength training, squats, and other exercises to excel. Despite starting later than his siblings, he's achieved remarkable success through his relentless efforts. Axel's love for the game fills me with immense pride as a mother. How did you feel during the final game, witnessing him steer APR to the championship? As a mother, witnessing Axel's determination and success on the basketball court fills me with pride. Every team he joins seems to bask in victory, whether it was his time with REG or now with APR, both clinching championships. During the final game, I could sense his unwavering spirit. The match was intense, with the score neck and neck, but Axel's resolve shone through. He rallied his teammates, encouraged them, and fearlessly attacked the basket. It was a joy to watch him confidently take charge. However, there was a moment of concern when he fell after being tripped. As a mother, I couldn't help but worry, but I had faith that he'd bounce back stronger. His determination and the support of his teammates carried him through. Despite a deep wound that required stitches, Axel's desire to win propelled him forward. His commitment makes me a proud mother. What message do you have for parents, especially mothers, whose children aspire to become athletes? I believe in the importance of listening to your children and being there to support them in their pursuits. When kids feel heard and supported, they are less likely to seek independence prematurely or feel unsupported at home. Building strong bonds through open communication is essential. Children often confide in parents who understand their dreams and challenges. I understand that African parents may sometimes prioritize academics over sports, but the two can coexist harmoniously. It's crucial to attend your child's games, even if it's challenging due to work commitments. Show them that you're there, cheering them on. While it's normal to worry about their safety, remember that minor injuries are part of a child's growth. Encourage their passion and dedication, just as I did with my son Axel. Parents can't push children into sports; it's something they must want to do themselves. Encourage them to work hard, join academies, and seek opportunities for growth. I've received praise from young fans for inspiring their parents to attend games. It's crucial that parents overcome any fears of judgment and focus on supporting their children's dreams. Oh, I should add that the growth of basketball in Rwanda is becoming more and more evident, and I commend President Kagame for his support of youth and sports. The country has invested in courts and facilities, creating a bright future for basketball. It's now up to parents, academies, and young players to seize the opportunities.

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I came from Idaho to support Axel in the playoffs-Mpoyo’s mother