DLSU Green Archer EJ Gollena: From the Hardwood to Fatherhood
Photo sources: Gollena’s Instagram, WUBS
EJ Gollena has always been known by his peers for his relentless energy and unwavering commitment on the basketball court. A sophomore for the De La Salle Green Archers, the 21-year-old guard has embraced an expanded role this season, proving his worth as an integral piece of the team’s rotation. But as he battles for glory on the court, EJ is also preparing for the biggest challenge of his young life: becoming a father.
For someone so young, Gollena’s perspective on fatherhood is profound, rooted in gratitude and faith. His journey toward this life-changing chapter began during a period of personal struggle.
“You know, it was really a blessing for me. I really prayed for something to inspire me going through this season, going through this year,” EJ said, reflecting on the months leading up to the revelation. Earlier this year, he faced uncertainty after suffering a severe concussion during an offseason game. The injury left him with hazy days and sleepless nights, questioning not only his basketball career but his future. “Sometimes, I would just go to campus, and relive every moment, because I didn’t know if my head’s going to get better or if anything in my life is going to get better.”
Then came the news that would change everything.
“I just kept praying every night… and we got to know it, we got the good news ahead of us,” he shared, the joy palpable in his voice. That “good news” was finding out he would soon become a father – a revelation that immediately shifted his perspective and gave him renewed purpose.
A Journey of Gratitude and Growth
For EJ, fatherhood isn’t just a responsibility; it’s a blessing and a testament to his faith.
“My first emotion when I knew, like when she told me, I just smiled. I was happy. No fear in the world,” he revealed. “I ask You for motivation, Lord, I ask You for something to live for, for a purpose, and now You gave me a kid to nourish, and to enjoy life with the kid’s mom and our kid.”
EJ, who like many of his Green Archers teammates like to say “God did,” speaks about the journey ahead with excitement and determination. While balancing his growing basketball career, he also focuses on supporting his girlfriend, Ianna – the mother of his child and someone he considers his future wife. He finds joy in the everyday moments of preparing for their child, a baby boy due next year.
“The thing that excites me the most is the journey that we’re taking. The journey of being a father from right now, taking care of my soon-to-be wife, my girlfriend, the mom of my kid,” EJ explained. “It’s really a fun ride right now, and it’s a boy! I can’t ask for more. It’s a boy.”
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Purpose On and Off the Court
Despite the life-changing development, EJ is committed to remaining the same fiery competitor La Salle fans have come to admire.
“Even though I’m going to be a father soon, I’m already a father right now. Just look at me the same way you saw me during my rookie season. Just that ball of energy on and off the court,” he said. “I don’t really want people to look at me in a different perspective, a different way just because I’m going to be a dad or going through something.”
For EJ, the court remains a sanctuary, but now with an added layer of motivation. The thought of his son one day sitting in the stands, cheering him on, drives him to excel further. “Next year, I’m going to have that little kid in the stands watching for me, so I’m excited,” he said, beaming with pride.
Inspiration for Others
EJ’s story is a testament to resilience and faith, inspiring not only his teammates but anyone facing unexpected challenges.
“Everything that’s happening around me is a blessing. It has a purpose. God has a plan for me, that’s why He put me in this situation. And I know that He has His plans,” EJ said.
As EJ prepares to juggle the roles of basketball player and father, his unwavering faith and determination is a microcosm for when even in the face of uncertainty, purpose and joy can be found. At just 21 years old, EJ Gollena is proving that maturity isn’t defined by age, but by how one rises to meet life’s greatest challenges.
This season, the Green Archers have a lot to play for – and for EJ, there’s even more waiting for him beyond the final buzzer.
