Surge is owned and directed by Anthony (Tony) Battilana. Born in Saint John NB; Coach B spent his early years in Hamilton, ON, where his passion for basketball took root. Coach B honed his skills at St. Luke’s High School and was later recruited to Bishop Ryan under the guidance of Coach Joe Dedrepanie. Following high school, Coach B played for Fanshawe College in London. In addition to collegiate play, Coach B represented Ontario in Provincial Basketball and competed in the CANUSA Games. Although recruited by St. FX, Coach B opted to pursue other opportunities

As his journey evolved, Coach B transitioned into coaching, starting with a girls' team in Hamilton, ON. After moving back home to New Brunswick, Coach B continued his coaching career with Rivervalley and ESJMBA. Coach B's expertise and success in running his elite camps caught the attention of Coach Modibo Diarra (a former NCAA Division 1 player). Coach Diarra asked Coach B to take on his Elite girls' team, which is where the Surge story begins.

By adopting the USA basketball development and transitional model, Coach B helped his players flourish, transforming them into high-performing, Elite-level athletes. What began as a single girls' team has flourished into a thriving club with multiple boys and girls teams across various age groups.

Under Coach B's leadership, Surge teams have competed in Quebec, Ontario, and in cities across the USA, achieving consistent success at all levels of competition.

With a sharp eye for analyzing footwork and body mechanics, coach B has helped countless athletes refine their skills and secure opportunities to play for top universities across the country. 

Meet Our Coaches 

Coaching Philosophy

At Surge, our coaches are the heartbeat of our program. With their experience, genuine passion, and commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment; our coaches inspire and guide our athletes every step of the way. Focused on growth through concept, our coaches emphasize teaching proper body mechanics and footwork. Rather than relying on set plays, our coaches encourage a more dynamic and adaptable style of play. Coaches guide athletes to read the defense, identify mismatches, and exploit open spaces on the court. We emphasize ball movement, effective spacing, and the use of passing, cutting, and screening to create scoring opportunities.

Building authentic connections and trust with our athletes is also a central element to our coaching philosophy at Surge. This foundation allows our coaches to effectively challenge and motivate our athletes, helping them to unlock their potential and push them to achieve the next level of success.

NOTE - All our coaches go through a required screening process and participate in ongoing training sessions with the Surge director.

Continuous Development

At Surge, we are dedicated to fostering growth and development among our coaches, empowering them to continuously learn and further enhance their skills and expertise. Recently, two of our coaches took part in Canada Basketball's prestigious Super Clinic in Toronto, ON.

Interested in joining our coaching team?