Julien Lopez is a gamer.
No not the video type of gamer that loves to spend plenty of time playing their console. While Julien does enjoy playing video games, we are talking about his attitude towards sports. From Dauphin, Julien is a tireless worker and very often he's the first one at practice and the last one to go home.
He prides himself on giving everything his all and knows good things come to those who work hard and never give up. When he was in grade three, Lopez joined the Little Wizards and while he admits to very rarely being the tallest player on the court, he has always been one of the most effective.
What Julien lacks in height he makes up for it 10 times with his heart and dedication. His play on the defensive side of the ball has always been a pleasure to watch and when presented with an opportunity to help his team offensively, Lopez has always come up clutch.
"It has always been a very cool challenge to play basketball with my height," said Lopez. "I can't score as often, so I have to push myself on defence that much more. I need to hustle every single time down the court whether in the front court or backcourt, I can't afford to take any time off."
Many call Julien a defensive specialist. While he may not rack up block after block, good luck getting past the stingy defender who has an eye for the ball and a knack for stealing it from his opponents on the court. Off the basketball court, you can often find Julien on the field working on his rugby skills. While Julien has not played rugby for as long as he has basketball, he has fallen in love with the game and the sport has taken him to some pretty great places. Over the weekend, Julien was in Salt Lake City for a rugby 7s tournament ahead of next month's Manitoba Summer Games.
"Some of my closest friends that I have made came from these sports," said Lopez. "Who knows if I would be friends with so many incredible guys without playing basketball and rugby. All the trips and there's no better feeling than winning with some of your best friends."
Now back in Dauphin, Julien will continue to prepare for next month's Games as he will be taking on double duty on the 16U Team West basketball team and U16 Team West rugby team. Julien will play basketball during Phase 1 from August 11-14 and rugby during Phase 2 from August 14-17.
"I am so excited to play, especially because I'll be playing alongside so many of my good friends," offered Lopez. "There are a few new guys on the basketball team, so I'm looking forward to making new friends and seeing how they play."
When it comes to the rugby competition, Julien's team will be tournament favourites entering the game. Rugby in the Parkland has taken off over the years and local fans should be in for a treat when Team West opens up their event at KIN Field on August 14.
"We are quick and come with a lot of energy," offered Lopez. "Although some of these teams may be a bit more experienced than us, they won't be able to match our energy."
Julien is also looking forward to playing in front of his family and friends.
"That's going to be one of the best things, it's going to be such a great feeling to have so much support," ended Lopez. "It's time to put on a show for the fans."
