Mark Walker is a basketball training expert. He has a true passion for developmental basketball and this is highlighted by his service to the game since he was a great player at Conard High in West Hartford.

With over 40 years of experience, Mark's expertise is grounded in the game's grassroots, which starts with the fundamentals, and strong skillsets (ball handling, footwork, shooting, and defense) while having fun.

Mark has coached many different teams such as Conard High School in the 80s & 90s, Hall High School 2017-2022, and most recently at Watkinson School High School, and currently directing the West Hartford Boys Travel Basketball Program.

Mark takes a personal approach with all his players to instill the values of sportsmanship off the court. He is committed to elevating student-athletes to their optimum performance on the court.

Mark has had over 425 boys and girls participate in ‘On The Court’ clinics. The number of new participants is growing with every scheduled clinic. Some of the highlighted moments have been the great collaboration with participants and meaningful conversations with parents.

Mark’s approach and philosophy as a coach and basketball trainer may differ from the traditional approaches where most athletes have to follow competitive trends such as AAU or playing in various leagues. Mark believes that individual or group basketball workouts and training have proven more beneficial than being on teams just playing games. Working on the strengths and weaknesses of athletes during a workout or training setting takes their game to the next level.

The repetitiveness workouts that Mark creates with the athletes allow them to grow their skills at a pace that is best for each individual. The excitement and good feeling come from seeing their progress in dribbling, shooting, and overall gameplay. Mark believes there needs to be a balance in training and it has to be executed at the level the athlete can manage.

Mark believes athletes should have valued interests and participate in multiple sports.

‘On The Court’ allows athletes to contribute to training all year round but still be competitive in other sports. Mark was a tri-athlete in football, basketball, and track. Mark is an avid NY Yankee, NY Rangers, Miami Dolphins, and Miami Heat fan, he is a big-time sports lover. During his spare time, you may see him at the driving range, perfecting his golf swing, or at sporting events supporting players whom he has worked with to see their performance in game situations.

Mark is currently enjoying retirement but is active as a coach and President of ‘On The Court’. He and his wife, Elaine are determined to make On The Court a staple for basketball training in West Hartford and surrounding towns. As parents of two former college athletes, Lacrosse, and basketball, they have seen and experienced what it takes to enhance students athletes through the love of sports and a whole lot of fun!