I must say, I was blown away by what I saw and heard during the Court Club practice Thursday….Coach Martin’s attention to detail, sense of urgency, and ability to “see” the game at a level reserved only for a select few was impressive and encouraging, to say the least.As I sat there with my wife, starring up at the banners from the 90s, I couldn’t help but think and feel that Frank’s approach and abilities are very similar to the guy I watched and listened to at every game during that special time. If the impression I came away with is sustained or even surpassed during this upcoming season, we are in for a special treat not seen around here for awhile. Coach Martin expressed his vision and conviction to build a hard working, defensive orientated, up tempo team… he also mentioned how surprised he was when he first saw how thin and physically unimposing some of the guys were when he first came on board…. he hired a strength and conditioning coach and began a new approach in that area. It’s a rare coaching characteristic to not only see and have a feel for the game at a high level, but to also communicate in a clear, authoritative and charismatic way, inviting respect and a sense of urgency not seen around here since those banners were stitched together in the 90s.Of course, we have yet to play a game, and my thoughts at this point are not only based on observation, but wishful thinking as well…. the talent and depth on this team is certainly there, with a very highly regarded player from New Zealand coming on board soon as well.
We also had the pleasure of speaking with Coach Martin and several of his staff members after practice….there is every reason to be excited and optimistic in anticipation of this new era in UMass Men’s Basketball…. this long time fan thinks they hit it out of the park in bringing in Frank Martin and his wife, a UMass graduate and star athlete, as well as a great group of assistants with a wealth of knowledge and experience…. when I mentioned that attendance at the Mullins Center has also been a little thin, he said they know they’ll have to earn it. Hold on to your hats folks …. this could be an exciting ride!
