Pressed for time, fifth year head coach Steve Merfeld gives us
a taste of what to expect out of the Purple Aces this season.
***
CHN:
What should we expect to be the strengths and weaknesses of
this year’s team?
SM: Our strengths are our three year starters, Kyle
Anslinger, Matt Webster, and Bradley Strickland. On the
flip side, we lack proven depth.
CHN: Which of your guys stands out for deserving more credit
on and off the court than they already get?
SM: Kyle Anslinger doesn’t get the credit he deserves
as a defensive player. He has been our best perimeter defender
for the past three years.
CHN: Discuss the incoming guys for a bit. Who will make the
biggest impact?
SM: Not sure who will make the biggest impact. We need 2 or
3 of the six to give us significant minutes for us to be
successful.
We have Taylor Morrow who redshirted last year. Also, Darin
Granger, Jay Couisnard, Willie Larry, J.D. Christie, and Pieter
Von Tongeren.
CHN: What other coaches helped you reach the level of
success you’re at now? How does their advice and teachings
still help you to this day?
SM: Jim Larranaga – I rely on his advice on a
regular basis. Byron Samuels – great relationships with
players
CHN: What your goals
and hopes are for this season.
SM: Send our seniors out on a winning note.
CHN:
Good luck this year coach.
SM: Thanks!
