How did it all start?
In 2016, as president of the "Choose to Live" Association and in collaboration with the National Anti-Drug Agency, represented by Chief Commissioner Dan Prică, and the organization from the United States of America, Crossroads from Tennessee, led by basketball coach Phil Pippenger, I initiated the educational sports project "Elevate Your Life".
Why do I do what I do?
The reason I am involved in this activity is twofold: on the one hand, I feel a moral duty as a believer towards God, and on the other hand, I love my community.
Therefore, I am dedicated to creating opportunities for all sports enthusiasts in our city and promoting a healthy and inclusive environment for everyone involved: coaches, athletes, and community members.
Iulian Vasile
President of Călărași Warriors Sports Club
Why the name "Elevate Your Life"?
Basketball is a sport "of height", you have to rise to throw the ball into the basket, thus symbolizing the effort needed to achieve your goals in life.
This project was designed as a harmonious combination between sports and education. We chose basketball as the focal point, as it is a sport that, beyond its competitive aspect, also transmits essential teachings about collaboration, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles.
Iulian Vasile
President of Călărași Warriors Sports Club
Friends lift you up
The team of teammates (the entourage - friends lift you up) represents the support and collaboration necessary in any endeavor, while opponents symbolize the obstacles and temptations we must overcome to fulfill our dreams. Thus, from the world of basketball, children can learn not only sports skills but also fundamental values that will guide them throughout their lives.
Focus on the project
This project has been a constant in our lives, except for a single year when the pandemic imposed restrictions and forced us to adapt. Our team of coaches has passionately dedicated themselves to this project, organizing not only on-court training but also regular technical meetings and personal development sessions.
The next level
Last year, in 2023, we decided to raise the bar and take things to the next level. From a simple project started in Victoria Park in 2016, we evolved to establish the Călărași Warriors Sports Club. Currently, our club invests in over 150 children, boys and girls aged between 9 and 19, coming from diverse social backgrounds.
300 young people trained
Over the past 4 years, drawing on my experience in performance athletics, as well as being a fitness and bodybuilding instructor, I have trained over 300 young people, boys and girls, helping them pursue careers in military institutions such as the Police, Gendarmerie, Fire Brigade, and Military Academies. All these efforts were undertaken voluntarily, driven by the desire to contribute to shaping the next generation and creating a better future for our community.
The real art
Working with people is truly an art! Each of us is different, which is why our needs are diverse as well. Thus, I got involved in individuals' lives socially and materially ("not even God can speak to a starving man except in terms of bread"), but especially educationally and sportingly.