With the NAIA Division II National Tournament beginning on Wednesday, I thought I'd share my thoughts on this season and the re-energizing spring season ahead. The V-Hawks finished the season 16-14 overall (7-5 in MCC play) and had three players (Cole Lewis, David Shepard, and Matt Turba) named to the MCC First Team All-Conference team. The word most often used to describe this season has been "disappointment," because internally we had higher team expectations. We couldn't get over the top to push the front running teams in our conference, losing twice to regular season champions St. Ambrose University and conference tournament champions William Penn University. We achieved one of our unwritten goals, to host a first round conference tournament game, however, couldn't take advantage in arguably the most frustrating season ending game in my tenure at Viterbo. In a short time of reflection, I took away only things that our upperclassmen are tired of hearing...What great young men they are! I continue to view that as a positive, because I have no doubts our seniors will make great contributions to our world and continue to represent their families, communities, Viterbo University, and our basketball program with class and professionalism. I struggle with fact that I wasn't able to help them get to a new level on the basketball court. Currently, I am enjoying my time working in the admission office and spending time with my family. It is nice leaving work everyday and heading straight home to my wife and daughter. It is nice to put college basketball on TV and watch as a fan instead of a coach. As a fan, I enjoy this time of year because of the tournament atmosphere. It re-energizes me to put together a plan of attack for our returning players, in hopes of playing into March next season. Bottom Line Coaches...Enjoy the tournament season! When it is over, reflect and prepare yourself for another opportunity in the 2014-15 season. Go V-Hawks! Comments are closed.
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AuthorThe purpose of this Blog is to share thoughts and insights from Coach Ryan Thibodeau and the Archives
January 2015
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