As a 1st year Head Coach our Coaching Staff wanted to be sure we set the tone in a variety of areas. Yes, being able to put the ball in the basket is commonly a priority for most teams but our program is based upon many other characteristics we view as winning necessities. Team-building, community involvement, fundraising, strength and conditioning, and possibly most important was study table as we attempted to build a foundation brick by brick that has the sustainability to stand year after year. It was not always comfortable or enjoyable, but our guys were tremendous about accepting a new approach to TEAM Basketball. In order for this group of young men to be successful on the floor we must learn what it means to truly sacrifice, suffer for the greater good, accept criticism, and remain enthusiastic because we understand our test is not about where we are going, but how we will arrive at our destination.
As for playing basketball, Lumberjacks concluded the pre-season competing in Canada against Brandon University out of Manitoba. It was a positive experience even though we dropped two games (80-73, 81-74). As a Coaching Staff we did our best to prepare our guys for a regular season competition by holding a Practice-A-Round (Shoot-A-Round is a dangerous word because we believe it lacks intensity and focus) before departure, as well as covering adjustments Saturday afternoon in the gym before Game 2. With two weeks until we tip-off in the Thom Classic it just seemed like the guys were not clear on mental and physical expectations the day before, and the day of a competition. Crossing the border, staying in a hotel, and competing against a 5-year institution combined to give our TEAM a great perspective on our current circumstances.
This TEAM is facing a new Coach with new expectations, some pieces are new and some pieces have returned, but none of them understand what it means to strive for greatness everyday. Winning is not a sometimes but an ALL the TIME thing, and we will not be measured by W's or L's. Success will be attained through our ability to hold each other accountable at the highest levels of daily habits.
We hope our words align with our actions this year. Stay tuned to our Jacks Blog as we keep you up to date with current events.
See you Jacks Supporters SOON at "The Woodshed" when we take on Winnipeg Nov. 2nd at 8pm following the Ladyjacks at 6pm.
