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Ross Tomlinson

My coaching philosophy is centered on the belief that the game is the best teacher, and my role is to guide players in learning how to think, adapt, and grow within it. I prioritize a player-based approach that focuses on long-term development over short-term results. Every athlete is different, so I aim to meet players where they are, challenge them appropriately, and create an environment where they feel empowered to take ownership of their growth.

The foundation of my approach is developing decision-makers, not just athletes who execute instructions. Basketball is a dynamic, fast-paced game, and success depends on a player’s ability to read situations, process information, and react confidently in real time. I emphasize teaching players why we do things, not just what to do. This helps them understand the game more deeply and apply their skills in unpredictable situations, rather than relying on memorized patterns or set plays.

I want players to become adaptable, creative, and confident on the court. That means giving them opportunities to make mistakes, learn from them, and try again without fear. I encourage questioning, exploration, and problem-solving so they develop a genuine feel for the game. Structure and fundamentals are important, but they should serve as a foundation—not a limitation.

Ultimately, my goal is to develop complete players who can think the game, communicate effectively, and compete with purpose. By fostering independence, accountability, and a strong work ethic, I aim to help players grow not only as athletes but as individuals who are prepared to make decisions under pressure and contribute meaningfully in any environment.
About 
Ross Tomlinson

Number of Years Coaching Basketball:

49

Current & Past Coaching Divisions or Programs: 

Assistant Coach King George Secondary
Head Coach Burnaby Central Secondary
Lead Assistant Coach University of British Columbia
Head Coach Heritage Woods Secondary
Assistant Coach Capilano University
U15, U16 and U17 Provincial Team Coach
Basketball BC Regional Training Centre Coach
Canada Basketball-Centre for Performance Coach
Western Canada Games Coach
Canada Games Assistant Coach

Achievements, Certifications, & Notable Experiences:

NCCP Fundamentals, Learn to Train, Train to Train & Train to Compete Certified
Safe Sport & Making Ethical Decisions Certified
CSSAA District Championship
Fraser River North Zone Championship
Coached 8 Provincial Teams
Gold Medalist at 3 Western Canada Summer Games
USport Canada West Champions - 1996
USport National Championships Semi-Finalist
Coached Boys & Girls High School Teams to 9 BC Provincal Championship Tournaments at various age levels.

What is your coaching philosophy?

My coaching philosophy is centered on the belief that the game is the best teacher, and my role is to guide players in learning how to think, adapt, and grow within it. I prioritize a player-based approach that focuses on long-term development over short-term results. Every athlete is different, so I aim to meet players where they are, challenge them appropriately, and create an environment where they feel empowered to take ownership of their growth.

The foundation of my approach is developing decision-makers, not just athletes who execute instructions. Basketball is a dynamic, fast-paced game, and success depends on a player’s ability to read situations, process information, and react confidently in real time. I emphasize teaching players why we do things, not just what to do. This helps them understand the game more deeply and apply their skills in unpredictable situations, rather than relying on memorized patterns or set plays.

I want players to become adaptable, creative, and confident on the court. That means giving them opportunities to make mistakes, learn from them, and try again without fear. I encourage questioning, exploration, and problem-solving so they develop a genuine feel for the game. Structure and fundamentals are important, but they should serve as a foundation—not a limitation.

Ultimately, my goal is to develop complete players who can think the game, communicate effectively, and compete with purpose. By fostering independence, accountability, and a strong work ethic, I aim to help players grow not only as athletes but as individuals who are prepared to make decisions under pressure and contribute meaningfully in any environment.

Why coach for Tri-City Youth Basketball Association?

I enjoy coaching with the Tri-City Youth Basketball Association because it provides the opportunity to work with players across a wide range of ages and stages of development. That variety is important to me, as it allows me to adapt my coaching, support long-term growth, and help athletes progress through different phases of their basketball journey.

I also value that the program offers both development and performance-based pathways and not just a win at any cost philosophy. Not every player is on the same trajectory, and having options that support both skill development and competitive aspirations creates a more inclusive and effective environment. It allows each athlete to find the right fit for their goals while still being challenged and supported.

What stands out most to me is that TCYBA remains one of the few provincially registered not-for-profit associations in BC that genuinely prioritizes participation and player development over financial gain. That commitment aligns closely with my own coaching philosophy. It reinforces the idea that youth sports should be about growth, enjoyment, and opportunity, rather than profit. Being part of an organization that shares those values makes coaching here especially meaningful to me.

TCYBA QUICK LINKS

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The Tri-City Youth Basketball Association (TCYBA) was formed in 1999 and is a volunteer-driven registered not-for-profit that serves the youth of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody (Tri-Cities), New Westminster, Burnaby and surrounding areas in British Columbia, Canada. Currently, we have well over 2000 players, from Kindergarten to grade 12, playing in various divisions including both competitive Elite programs and recreational play. We offer academies, camps, official's development paths and coaching clinics in partnership with various local, provincial and national partners. Open to both boys and girls, the club operates out-of-school gyms across the Tri-City area and strives to ensure all youth that want to enjoy the sport have an opportunity to participate. We believe that youth sport is critical to a child's development and the opportunity to build skills for both the sport and for life should be available to all of our community's youth.

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