Insights on ambition, professional sports, & balancing motherhood with Natalie Achonwa

In our latest Insights Series, Natalie Achonwa shares all about her incredible journey as a world renowned basketball star, four-time Olympian, and busy mom. She serves as a proud example of the limitless achievements moms are capable of. Keep reading for Natalie’s advice on traveling the world with a young child and balancing motherhood with her athletic career.

We love seeing you with your beautiful son, Maverick Noel! Can you share a little bit about your motherhood journey with us?

I’m constantly saying this is the most challenging blessing I have ever had. Becoming a parent is such a gift and I absolutely LOVE being Mav’s mom. Being the super competitive and ‘strive for greatness’ type I am, made the early stages difficult for me. It took some time to realize that parenting is one of those things you need to live yourself to truly grasp. No parent is perfect, has the same experiences, or knows all the answers. Every day may not go exactly how I envisioned, but no matter what I give it my best and know that Mav will always be surrounded by love.  

How has becoming a mom changed you as a person?

It has definitely intensified my appreciation of time. Watching how much and how quickly my son has grown and changed over the past year has made me value every second I get to spend with him. 

"Knowing that his rest, routine, and comfort have a direct relation to how I am feeling, I try to make being on the road as similar to being home as possible."

For all of the parents out there who travel for work, how have you managed traveling with your baby?

As a habitual last minute packer, bringing Maverick along for tournaments and competitions has completely reshaped how I prepare to travel. Knowing that his rest, routine, and comfort have a direct relation to how I am feeling, I try to make being on the road as similar to being home as possible. That means simple things like bringing along his favorite stuffed fox, to the big things like traveling with his Doona and a pack n’ play, it all matters. But regardless of how difficult it can be traveling with a child, I wouldn’t trade the experiences I get to share with him for anything. 

How has your support system shaped your experience as a working mom?

There would be no “working mom” if it wasn’t for the support of my friends and family. Not just the times they have been physically present for Mav, but their love, commitment, and belief in me has been such a motivator to return to the court. I literally could not do it without them. 

You are an inspiration to so many. What has been your main source of inspiration?

100% Maverick. He might not remember it when he grows up, but I want to be able to show him that no one can put you in a box or limit who/what you can be. He will be able to look back and know his mom was strong, courageous, and committed enough to return to playing at the highest level only 6 months after he was born.

As a new parent, how do you balance the demands of your professional basketball career with the responsibilities of parenthood?

When I first started working out again it was hard to get past the mom guilt of taking time away from Mav. Creating a routine and clarifying my priorities was a huge step. Everyone involved, both on and off the court, is aware that Mav always comes first. Sometimes that means a last minute pivot in my workout schedule or that Mav is tagging along to the gym. Having people around me that understand, respect, and value my role as a mother has made the work-life balance so much easier.

What advice would you give to other athletes who are considering starting a family?

Before the new addition comes, curate and build a village that will support YOU. There are often plenty of people that will show up and love your child, but especially as a mother, you need to surround yourself with people that will go to war for you. Those who will be there to support you mentally, emotionally, and who truly see you beyond your role as an athlete, mother, etc. 

What values and lessons from your basketball career do you hope to impart to your child?

One of my favorite parts about sport is the lessons you learn are a direct parallel to “real life.” From teaching discipline and proper work ethic to navigating disappointment and adversity, basketball has shaped who I am as an individual. The biggest lesson I hope to share with Mav is that the goals and outcomes are simply things to strive for. The real value lies in the journey: the experiences and relationships you build along the way is what you will truly carry on for life. 

Natalie Achonwa is a mom, WNBA vet, and four time Olympian from Canada. Stay connected with Natalie through her Instagram handle @natachon11.

At Doona, we’re always trying our very best to make parenting simpler for every family. Which is also why we’ve created our innovative and revolutionary Doona Car Seat & Stroller which transforms from a car seat to a stroller in the click of a button; and Liki Trike — the most compact folding toddler trike on the market that grows alongside toddlers with five modes of use.