“Country roads take me home…”
Hi everyone! I am back writing this blog from the comfy confines of the Freeman Center. July recruiting is far from over, but I have a few days now to recharge and reorganize for the last part of the period starting this weekend. The NCAA mandates a six-day period during the middle of July where Division I coaches are not allowed to be on the road recruiting; so obviously no major events are put on during this time. However, there are a bunch of local summer leagues that us Division III coaches are allowed to attend, and you can be sure that the CNU staff will be covering them this week.
Last week was certainly a long one. After finishing up the AAU tournament in King of Prussia, I returned to Newport News late Tuesday night. On Wednesday afternoon Coach Krikorian and myself set out for Morgantown, West Virginia.
Yes, Morgantown, West Virginia might seem like an odd place for a basketball hotbed, but for three days every July it most definitely is. One of the largest AAU events on the east coast is held there every year, attracting teams from all over. Personally, this Morgantown event has become my favorite event of the July recruiting period. The large scope of the event means that most of the players you are currently recruiting will be playing in it. It provides a great opportunity to see a diverse set of teams and players from some key geographic areas. You are able to pack a lot of games and player evaluations into a relatively short period of time.
You might think I'm crazy, but I also really enjoy being in West Virginia and the city of Morgantown. The scenic drive there through the Appalachian Mountains is amazing, and Morgantown itself is a phenomenal town. Don't believe the stereotypes. I can't really explain it; you'll just have to trust me and go see for yourself. That John Denver really knew what he was talking about!
Coach Krikorian and I had a productive time at the tournament. We saw a lot of the players whom we have high on our priority list and also identified a few new prospects as well. As an assistant, when you are out recruiting with your boss you have to be especially on point. The hotel room, schedule of games to attend, and player information all have to be in order, as the head coach is relying on you to efficiently and effectively navigate him through the event. Aside from some questionable radio station selections during the six-hour drive and the fact that I broke out my own rendition of “Country Roads” as we crossed over into West Virginia, I think Coach Krikorian was relatively happy with my performance.
Now, the next few days will be spent following up with coaches and players – further establishing relationships with the recruits and making sure we know where everyone will be playing during the last half of the period. Being back in the office also allows us to check in on our current players; many of them are here locally in full swing with their jobs and basketball workouts. On another bright note, I finally get to empty out my suitcase and do some laundry – but not for long. Starting Saturday, the last nine days of July will take me through Richmond, Orlando, and Washington D.C. Stay tuned. I look forward to bringing you all along for the ride!
Running tally for the month:
Total Days on the Road: 9
Total Miles Driven: 1, 591
