Patrick Dujmovic

I was born in Croatia, where I first fell in love with basketball playing for my hometown club. Those early years helped me learn the fundamentals and develop my game. At 15, I had the incredible opportunity to join a men’s club team, which meant traveling across Croatia to play in games and tournaments. I even had the chance to face off against a pro team and meet some of the best players in the country, an experience that motivated me to keep pushing and improving my skills. After moving to Canada, I was able to blend my European roots with North American influences, creating a unique style of play that eventually led me to compete in USports basketball.

Training has always been a big part of my life, and I aim to train 5-6 days a week, allowing 1-2 days for rest and recovery. Rest days often include light activities, like walking my dogs or stretching, while I focus on my mental state to stay prepared for the next session. During the season, my focus shifts more toward functional training and injury prevention to stay game-ready. My time at UBCO taught me a lot about structured training, nutrition, and exercise techniques. I also had the chance to return to Croatia a couple of summers, where I worked with athletic trainers who helped me build my strength and mental resilience.

A friend once told me, “The day I walk into the gym and don’t feel joy is the day I’ll stop coaching basketball.” I carry that same mindset as a player. The day I no longer feel the joy in playing will be the day I step away from the game. I’m a very competitive person, and as long as I’m playing, I’m driven to keep improving. With only one year of eligibility left, my goal is clear: to help my team win it all this season.

For young athletes, my biggest advice is to ask questions. Seek out captains and veteran players, observe how they train, and learn from them. The best way to improve is by challenging yourself against stronger players and absorbing everything you can. As a veteran myself, I always try to offer feedback and encourage younger players to ask questions. Learning from those who are ahead of you is one of the most valuable paths to growth and success in the game.