Before being interviewed, Wilfrid Laurier University’s basketball star Chuder Teny told me to come over to his house sometime so that he can beat me in FIFA.
Although it was said in jest, this comment gave me a glimpse into Teny’s competitive nature.
Chuder Teny has made a massive impact on the Laurier men’s basketball program throughout his five years at the school and now that he has played his last game for the Hawks, his presence will be missed.
“I’ve become a better leader. Throughout my first year, we didn’t really have an impactful leader and I wasn’t a guy that would speak up and give guys directions on what to do. But throughout my years, my coaches have taught me how to become a better leader. I never took on that leadership role because I’m more laid back, but both coach Campbell and coach Serresse made me a better leader,” Teny said when asked how his experience with Laurier basketball has changed him.
Not only did Teny become a better leader year after year, his level of play also increased on an annual basis.
Although he didn’t put up tons of points every year, the Kitchener native became a staple on the team for his hustle and energy, something that every good team needs.
Peter Campbell was the head coach of the men’s basketball team during Teny’s first two years with the Hawks.
Teny gave a lot of credit to coach Campbell and coach Serresse for improving his game and making him a better player.
“During coach Serresse’s first year, he made me a leader right off the bat by naming me one of the captains. So I’ve been able to impact the guys vocally and through my hard work which has definitely made me a better leader,” he said.
“I’m back in the fall because I had a concussion last year so I’m a semester behind right now. I’ll definitely be helping out with Laurier basketball regardless. As of right now that’s the plan, to help the team in the fall,” he said.
Under coach Serresse’s guidance for a third year now, this Hawks team exceeded all expectations by making it to the OUA semi-finals.
Although the Hawks’ immense success this year shocked many Laurier students and fans, it was something that the team always knew they could accomplish.
“I remember when coach Serresse first came in. During his second month with the team, he told me that by the time I leave, we would host a playoff game and we would make the semi-finals [of the OUA championships]. Obviously we accomplished both of those goals this year. Hopefully, the team can make the OUA finals next year,” Teny said.
Teny was a big reason behind the Hawks going as far as they did this year.
With a roster that is extremely young, leadership is a necessity and Teny was one of the veterans that was able to guide the youngsters.
With Teny’s departure, it will now be up to the rest of the team to fill that leadership void.
“Coach [Serresse] is always preaching about hard work. You have to be coachable and trust the process. Everything will work out. Just come in with a good attitude, work hard and be coachable. Coach plays the guys that work the hardest and demonstrate the best attitude. Just believe in the process,” Teny said.
Even though Teny will not play another game for the Hawks, he plans on staying involved with the team, at least in the near future.
“I’m back in the fall because I had a concussion last year so I’m a semester behind right now. I’ll definitely be helping out with Laurier basketball regardless. As of right now that’s the plan, to help the team in the fall,” he said.
Chuder Teny’s presence is essential for the Hawks and having him help the team as a coach, even if it’s just for a few months, will be very helpful. Teny left his mark on the Laurier men’s basketball program during his five years with the team and his influence will be crucial for the rest of the Hawks.
