Week 5: Danby Wong

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

As an awkward 5th grader, I was that kid that got picked last in an old-fashioned schoolyard pick; let’s say I wasn’t the most coordinated kid on the block.  One day, that all changed – forced to play the hockey goalie in gym class, I suddenly gained my “athletic powers”, cat-like reflexes and focus.  In hindsight, I believe this was a defining moment that taught me effort means everything.

I grew up in Toronto, Ontario, competed on the basketball, volleyball, softball and badminton teams throughout high school. Post-secondary, I found myself being a part of the Black Dragons, an Asian community-based women’s basketball team competing in various basketball tournament across North America for over 17+ years; my second family.

In recent years, I volunteered as an assistant coach to the New York ISS Flightz Women’s basketball team, based in New York City Chinatown.  To be able to share my love for the game, mentor and pay it forward to the next generation of female athletes extended my love and passion for the game.  Coaching taught me a valuable lesson; be the change you want to see in the world.

How has sport helped you develop skills for your work today?

Fast forward to present day, I find myself at my dream job as the Web Developer/Designer with Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment.  Working in a fast-paced environment overseeing the web presence for the Brooklyn Nets, New York Islanders, and Barclays Center. I need to be balanced, passionate, innovative, and focused at the many tasks at hand, tapping into the many key characteristics sports has instilled in me.

How do you define leadership?

My journey through sports has impacted my life in many ways.  It has opened doors and opportunities towards my own personal growth to be the best version of myself every day.  Find something you are good at and be the best at it.  For me, being a playmaker you need to see the play develop in your head and execute as envisioned.  Not all of us can be the superstar of the team, however to be a great role player and teammate has a greater impact on a team as a whole.

“Leadership is based on a spiritual quality; the power to inspire, the power to inspire others to follow.” –Vince Lombardi