FGCU Basketball Player Michael Duax Contributes on a Mission Trip in Peru
Michael Duax, the newest face on the Florida Gulf Coast men’s basketball team, is making waves both on and off the court. After transferring from Northern Iowa, Duax didn’t just change basketball jerseys—he tilted the axis of his whole world by embracing the FGCU motto: “routine of greatness.”
Adapting to a New Environment
“Every day we did some sort of workout,” Duax reflected, his eyes flickering with enthusiasm. “Meeting new teammates isn’t just about basketball; it’s about reshaping your entire life.” This newfound commitment reflects his understanding of the deeper connections that sports can forge.
A Lifelong Passion for Medicine
Despite a summer filled with adjustments in his athletic life, Duax’s aspiration to enter the medical field has remained steadfast. His dedication manifested vividly during a mission trip he took with International Medical Relief, where he found himself deep in the heart of the Amazon jungle.
Making a Difference in the Amazon
“We set up a makeshift clinic in a simple building,” Duax recalled, his tone tinged with pride. “Doctors and dentists joined forces to help locals, and I was right there, engaged in something far greater than basketball.” It was a moment that highlighted his core values—service and compassion.
Unexpected Roles and Personal Growth
Duax’s experience took an unexpected turn when the team of professional translators they brought along ran out. “I stepped in as a translator for a few doctors,” he shared, recounting the rush of adrenaline that came with communicating in a language that was still a work in progress for him. “I’m not fully fluent, but I managed to bridge that gap. It was both empowering and humbling.”
The Impact of Service
This adventure did more than help him practice his Spanish; it fortified his resolve to pursue a future in healthcare. His willingness to step outside of his comfort zone in the Amazon jungle reinforced a profound understanding of humanity—one that he hopes to carry in his future medical endeavors.
Michael Duax’s brief stint at FGCU extends beyond basketball. It enriches a narrative of dedication to personal growth and an unwavering commitment to serving others. His journey exemplifies that sports can intertwine with life in transformative ways, fostering connections that transcend court boundaries.
