ºìÐÓÊÓƵ

Skip to main content
Apply Library A-Z Find a person Maps
Email
University
of Victoria
Apply Library A-Z Find a person Maps
Sign in Online tools Sign out
Co-operative Education

Diego Maffia (recreation and health education)

A student holding a basketball on the court.

When superstar basketball player and U Sports MVP Diego Maffia tore his ACL during his final season with the Vikes at UVic, he didn't let it slow him down.

Instead, he tackled a new game--developing his own basketball was doing an entrepreneurial co-op this semester working on building his own basketball training, .

Following a love of the game

Originally from Vinhedo, Brazil, Diego came to Victoria with his family as a Grade 9 student and stand-out basketball player. He chose Oak Bay High as the perfect place to pursue his love of the game, and followed that passion to UVic, where he helped lead the team to multiple nationally ranked titles.

"I chose UVic because of its basketball history, amazing facilities, and academic options," says Diego. "My program aligned with what I wanted to do after graduation."

Putting skills into practice through co-op

Diego leveraged his love of basketball in each of his co-op work terms, including two terms as a player with the Vancouver Bandits, and his latest entrepreneurial work term. 

"All three of my co-ops involved my two career paths I hope to pursue: basketball and coaching," says Diego. "My co-op experiences gave me the time to dive deeper into each one & learn more about myself.

My work terms gave me the opportunity to explore areas of my business I never had the time to. It allowed me to grow personally and in the business world."

Supporting youth looking to grow

The result of his hard work off the court: Maffia Academy, a basketball brand devoted to youth who are looking to learn and grow as people and athletes. To goal is to encourage youth of all ages to learn more about basketball, and show their passion for the game.

 

What's next?

After Diego graduates this summer, he'll be focused on rehabilitating his ACL, as well as coaching the senior boys basketball team at his alma mater, Oak Bay High School.

Once he's recovered, he plans to go overseas to play professional basketball, and continue to run  basketball camps through business over the summers.

"I was so excited about the connections I made during my time at UVic, and the people I met through this process," says Diego.

"I am hoping that through Maffia Academy, I can inspire as many young athletes as possible. I want them to fall in love with the game the same way I did."

Learn more