Coaching basketball is teaching, teaching not only fundamentals, but how to play the game and team skills, but also life skills. I believe in being well-prepared for practices and games, encouraging players, being positive. I have a passion for the game. If I am enthusiastic and upbeat, this will spill over to players and everyone around. I value all the players on the team. Making the 15th player on the team feel as important as the star player. This is so very important in developing team spirit and chemistry. Everyone has a role and they should be aware of where they stand in the team structure.
Growing up I fell in love with basketball at a very early age. Being undersized I wasn’t given much of a chance. I learned that discipline and accountability could outweigh talent. First and foremost, I believe that coaching is a calling and without that calling one cannot achieve success to the highest degree. I would not be in this profession if it were not for my intense passion and deep desire to develop student athletes spiritually, physically, and academically. It is my responsibility to teach and motivate student athletes so that they may reach their greatest potential as an athlete, as well as being a contributing member of society. In doing so, my job does not start at the beginning of the work day, nor end at the completion of the work day, but instead, is a part of me everywhere I go and in everything I do. My success as a coach is dependent on three integral aspects; love, honesty, and the ability to influence in a positive manner.
I must develop a personal relationship with each of the players. Each student athlete comes from a different background and faces different struggles that are specific to his life. I must be compassionate and patient in my dealings with each player while also attempting to meet their individual emotional and spiritual needs. I also believe you must have an equal love for the game of basketball. I strive to increase my knowledge of the game and in turn, allow the players to experience a greater level of success.
Secondly, honesty must be taught and exhibited on a consistent basis. I think that honesty builds trust and trust encourages effort. In order for a team to be successful, there must be a degree of trust at all levels; coach to player, player to coach, and player to player. The coach must be truthful in addressing ability, potential, and role of each player, while the player must be truthful regarding discipline issues, academics, and off-the court behavior. Players must be truthful to one another in all aspects of their daily interactions. Honesty is not situational and is not predicated on any outside influence (parents, coaches, administration). It must be displayed not only by words, but even more importantly, by actions.
Lastly, I believe that I must be a positive role model for all players. Players are easily influenced whether that be positively or negatively. I must guide and encourage student athletes to excel in all areas of life, not just athletics. I think a high level of integrity is extremely important in dealing with student athletes today and I understand that my actions will ultimately speak louder than my words. I hope that my interactions with the players will allow them to make better decisions and eventually result in growth and maturity. It is my daily goal to influence players in a manner that will reflect high character and high integrity, both of which are critical in becoming a successful adult.
I served in the United State Armed services. I'm a father and two time college graduate.
Most Memorable Moment:
As an athlete leading our college basketball team to a 29-2 record and national tournament appearance.
High School: Calvary Christain Academy in Youngstown, OH
class of 1997
Experience
I currently work with Edinboro University
as Assistant Basketball Coach
I have 8 years of experience working in the
Military industry.
Assistant Men's Basketball Coach|
Edinboro University
From August 2018 to Current • 8 year(s)
Collaborate with Head Coach on recruitment strategies across multiple states, manage annual summer team camp, and support student-athlete academic progress.
Assistant Men's Basketball Coach|
Westminster College
From July 2014 to June 2018 • 4 year(s)
Assist head coach with instructing players, organize practice activities, assess player skills, and maintain equipment room security.
Human Resource Generalist|
United States Army
From August 2010 to October 2016 • 6 year(s)
Provide support affecting soldiers' welfare and well-being, assist with human resource matters, and maintain emergency notification data.
Intervention Specialist Facilitator|
Education Alternatives
From March 2013 to July 2014 • 1 year(s)
Co-teach academic and therapeutic programs for students with behavioral and educational disabilities, provide therapeutic interventions for at-risk students.
Student-Family Liaison|
Stambaugh Charter Academy
From September 2010 to March 2013 • 3 year(s)
Collaborate with students, families, and staff to provide quality educational experience and facilitate problem-solving between students and school staff.
Substance Abuse Counselor|
Summit Academy
From January 2009 to September 2010 • 1 year(s)
Conduct therapy groups with clinical documentation, teach life skills including stress management and communication skills.
Aviation Operation Specialist|
United States Marine Corps
From January 2000 to August 2005 • 5 year(s)
Assist in preparation of operation plans and orders, maintain flight files and navigational information, compile data for aviation operations reports.
