Djembe “DJ” McBean is a Grade 9 student at École secondaire catholique Renaissance (ESC Renaissance) who is quickly making a name for himself as a committed student-athlete and positive presence within his school community. With a strong balance of academics, athletics, and leadership, DJ approaches every opportunity with hard work, enthusiasm, and a desire to improve.
DJ is a member of the Phénix junior boys’ basketball and junior boys’ volleyball teams, with basketball standing out as his favourite sport. He has been playing the sport since Grade 6 and continues to develop his game through both school and club competition. In addition to representing ESC Renaissance, DJ plays basketball for the IEM Spartans, a house league based in Newmarket, where he competes against high-level opposition and sharpens his skills year-round.
On the basketball court, DJ is known as a dependable leader and a strong defensive player. As an effective ball distributor, he demonstrates strong court vision and an unselfish approach, consistently putting his teammates in positions to succeed. His game reflects a mature understanding of teamwork and responsibility.
School coach Zachari Deschatelets speaks highly of DJ’s dedication to academics and his passion for sport, noting his winning attitude and constant pursuit of improvement. Whether in practice or competition, DJ brings energy, focus, and coachability, earning the respect of coaches and teammates alike.
Outside of team sports, DJ contributes at the school by helping run intramural volleyball activities, showing initiative and a willingness to support fellow students. He admires the play of longtime NBA point guards Kyle Lowry and Stephen Curry. Outside of athletics, DJ enjoys listening to music by Drake and has already begun considering a possible future career in engineering.
With his work ethic, leadership, and well-rounded character, Djembe McBean has a promising path ahead both on and off the court.
Congratulations!
