Zach Edey, the towering Canadian basketball sensation, has captured the hearts of fans with his dominant performances for Purdue University and Team Canada. But behind every great athlete stands a strong family foundation. The story of Zach Edey’s parents, Julia and Glen Edey, is one of dedication, humility, and unwavering support. Their influence shaped Zach into the disciplined, grounded, and hardworking player he is today. In this in-depth article, we’ll explore everything about Zach Edey’s parents—their backgrounds, careers, family values, and the remarkable role they’ve played in their son’s rise to fame.
Who Are Zach Edey’s Parents?
Zach Edey’s parents, Julia Edey and Glen Edey, are both proud Canadians who raised their son in Toronto, Ontario. Julia, of Chinese-Canadian heritage, and Glen, who is of European descent, form a multicultural family that blends traditions, work ethic, and strong values. Together, they instilled in Zach a sense of humility and perseverance that has carried him to international basketball success.
Growing up in Toronto’s Leaside neighborhood, Zach was surrounded by love and encouragement. His parents never pressured him into sports—instead, they let him explore his interests freely. From baseball and hockey to basketball, Zach’s early years were filled with variety and discovery, thanks to his parents’ patient guidance and emphasis on effort over results.
Meet Julia Edey – The Engineer, Beekeeper, and Proud Basketball Mom
Julia Edey is more than just Zach’s mother—she’s a symbol of determination and curiosity. A mechanical engineer by profession, Julia broke barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men. Her career showcased her intelligence, resilience, and problem-solving skills—qualities that clearly rubbed off on her son.
After retiring, Julia shifted her focus toward community service and personal growth. She became an avid beekeeper, maintaining several hives and using her newfound passion to educate others about sustainability and the environment. Her transition from engineering to beekeeping reflects her lifelong love of learning and contributing positively to her surroundings.
At Purdue University games, Julia is a familiar face. Fans know her as “Big Maple Mom,” a nickname derived from Zach’s “Big Maple” moniker, which highlights his Canadian roots. Julia is known for her warmth, humor, and relentless energy—she once joked about having a “clapping callus” from cheering too hard at her son’s games. Her visibility and genuine enthusiasm have made her a beloved figure among Purdue supporters.
Julia’s upbringing also played a major role in shaping her worldview. Born to Chinese immigrants from Guangdong, China, she represents the first generation of her family born in Canada. Her cultural heritage has deeply influenced Zach’s identity, giving him pride in his Chinese roots while embracing his Canadian upbringing.
Meet Glen Edey – The Quiet Supporter and Steadfast Father
While Julia often shines in the public eye, Glen Edey is the quiet pillar of the family. He prefers to stay away from media attention, yet his presence in Zach’s life has been monumental. Glen is a devoted father who taught Zach the importance of discipline, teamwork, and humility—lessons he learned through his own love of sports.
Glen played baseball and hockey in his youth, and his passion for athletics inspired Zach’s early sports interests. Before becoming a basketball star, Zach was a talented baseball player, even serving as a pitcher and first baseman. Many of his physical and mental skills—focus, coordination, and composure—stem from the foundation laid by his father’s guidance.
Though Glen maintains a low profile, those close to the Edey family often describe him as calm, thoughtful, and incredibly supportive. He’s the kind of parent who lets actions speak louder than words—attending games quietly, motivating Zach privately, and keeping the family grounded despite growing fame.
Cultural Heritage and Family Values
Zach Edey’s multicultural background is a key part of his identity. With a Chinese-Canadian mother and a Canadian father, he grew up embracing both worlds. His parents emphasized respect, humility, and hard work—values common in both Chinese and Canadian traditions.
Julia’s family history from Guangdong province connects Zach to a deep cultural lineage of perseverance and family loyalty. The Edey household celebrated diversity, blending elements from both cultures into their everyday lives. This inclusive environment helped Zach appreciate his roots and develop a mature, balanced worldview—traits that shine through in interviews and public appearances.
How Julia and Glen Supported Zach’s Athletic Journey
From his early days in Toronto, Julia and Glen were deeply involved in Zach’s athletic development—but always in a supportive, not controlling, way. They encouraged him to explore multiple sports, knowing that a broad athletic base would help him develop coordination and discipline.
When Zach began showing promise in basketball during his teenage years, his parents made significant sacrifices. They supported his decision to attend IMG Academy in Florida, a major move for a young athlete. The transition wasn’t easy, but Julia and Glen ensured that Zach never felt alone. Julia often visited him in Florida, helping him adjust to life away from home and focusing on academics as much as athletics.
Their support continued into his college years at Purdue University. Both parents attended as many games as possible, even traveling long distances from Canada. Their emotional and logistical support gave Zach the stability to focus on his performance and personal growth.
The Edeys’ Life Off the Court
Off the basketball court, the Edey family maintains a close-knit and modest lifestyle. Julia’s volunteer work in Indiana and her beekeeping ventures have connected her to both local communities and environmental causes. Glen continues to enjoy quiet family moments, reflecting his reserved personality.
Despite Zach’s growing fame, the Edeys have avoided the trappings of celebrity culture. They live with gratitude and focus on staying true to their values. Julia often reminds fans and interviewers that Zach’s success belongs not just to him, but to everyone who helped raise him with kindness and discipline.
Fun Facts About Zach Edey’s Parents
- Julia has a “clapping callus” from cheering too much at games—a fun testament to her enthusiasm.
- She designed the “Big Maple” nickname and merchandise that became a hit among Purdue fans.
- Glen and Julia made a family deal: Julia would retire once Zach earned a Division I scholarship—an agreement she proudly fulfilled.
- Both parents are tall and athletic, traits that clearly contributed to Zach’s 7’4” frame.
- The Edeys enjoy cooking traditional Chinese dishes and Canadian comfort food together during off-seasons.
What Zach Edey Says About His Parents
Zach has consistently credited his parents for his success. He describes his mother as his “rock” and his father as his “steady compass.” In interviews, Zach often mentions that his parents taught him to “work hard even when no one’s watching”—a mindset that has defined his career.
He’s also spoken about how their sacrifices inspire him to stay humble and focused. Whether it’s his mother’s engineering background or his father’s calm encouragement, Zach sees his parents as the perfect balance of strength and wisdom. Their belief in him fuels his confidence both on and off the court.
Conclusion
The story of Zach Edey’s parents—Julia and Glen Edey—is a beautiful example of family, perseverance, and unconditional love. From their humble beginnings in Toronto to their unwavering presence courtside at Purdue, they’ve nurtured their son’s talent with care and purpose. Julia’s brilliance and warmth, paired with Glen’s quiet guidance, created the foundation for Zach’s remarkable journey.
As Zach continues to rise as one of basketball’s brightest stars, one thing remains certain: the steady support of his parents will always be his greatest strength. The Edeys remind us that behind every extraordinary athlete is an extraordinary family—one that believes, sacrifices, and cheers with all their hearts.
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