Meet Our Coaches

Get to know the dedicated and experienced coaches at Level Up Basketball Academy. Our coaches are committed to developing young athletes and helping them reach their full potential. Learn more about their backgrounds and expertise.

Norman Darrell - Head Coach & Player Development

Norman Darrell, Founder of Level Up Basketball Academy, is a Hamilton native dedicated to youth basketball development. With extensive experience coaching at the Hamilton Amateur Basketball Association and semi-pro levels, Norman treats each player as an individual, fostering growth and skill enhancement.

Norman is renowned for his time at Cathedral High School, where his team secured two consecutive Greater Hamilton Athletic Conference titles. His leadership earned him accolades such as Inspiring Future Leader, Most Improved Student, and recognition as a Top 50 player in Ontario.

Following his high school success, Norman pursued a professional basketball career, and engaging in 9 years of semi-pro travel basketball across various leagues. His achievements include:

  • 5x Most Valuable Player
  • 1x Defensive Player of the Year
  • 7x First Team Awards
  • 4x First Team All-Defense

Why Choose Level Up Basketball Academy Coaches?

Level Up Basketball emphasizes building core basketball skills — shooting, handling, footwork, defense, IQ and game fundamentals — for beginners and advanced players alike. The training structure is designed to help athletes improve faster and more effectively. coaches and trainers who have played or coached at the collegiate or professional level. This means players learn from people with high-level experience and understanding of the game. Aside from athletic skills, Level Up Basketball often focuses on confidence building, teamwork, discipline, and life skills — helping kids grow as people both on and off the court. Many parent testimonials note improvements in confidence, motivation, and teamwork.

What Parents and Players Need to Know

The coach at LevelUp Basketball is passionate about youth development and helping young athletes reach their full potential. With a strong focus on fundamentals, discipline, and confidence, the coach creates a positive and motivating environment where players can grow both on and off the court.

Training sessions are structured, high-energy, and age-appropriate, emphasizing skill development, basketball IQ, and respect for the game. The coach believes in meeting athletes where they are and pushing them to improve at their own pace while building a love for basketball.

Coaching Values

  • Player-first development

  • Positive and respectful coaching

  • Strong fundamentals and work ethic

  • Confidence, accountability, and teamwork

Our Coaches in Three Words

    Motivating. Disciplined. Supportive.