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Muskie
06-16-2011, 10:45 AM
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2011 Steak Fry Recap:
by Muskie

I had the opportunity to travel to my first ever Butler County Steak Fry last night. As always it was nice to meet some of you, reconnect with others, and spend time with my LHS Brethren. The day started out ominous with threats of rain, but the event went on without a hitch in the gymnasium at Badin High School. The beverages flowed and the optimism for the season was talked about by all in attendance. Is it basketball season yet?

In order to avoid looking like a news reporter, I did not write anything down. But what follows is my memory of the night. I have tried to be as precise as possible.

Mike Bobinski spoke first. He declared that Xavier Basketball had two of the best coaching staffs in school history. He recognized Coach Mack, Coach Waugh, and Sister Rose for the jobs they have done in assembling their teams for the upcoming season. AD Bobinski also took a moment to highlight some other Xavier athletes from other programs and their recent accomplishments. Bobinski stressed that big things were happening in Xavier athletics and the basketball program played a big part in that. He encouraged everyone to support Xavier Athletics and AFO.

Coach Waugh was then introduced. She took a moment to introduce her staff. Coach Waugh took a moment to thank Sr. Rose for her involvement in the program. Coach stated she was excited to be the Head Coach and ready to get to work. She asked that everyone come out and support the team this season.

Coach Mack was the final speaker. He stared by thanking AD Bobinski for his support since coming back to Xavier. Like Coach Waugh, Coach Mack took the opportunity to introduce his staff. He remarked that Skip Prosser had always stressed the importance of having a great staff, and Coach Mack felt he had assembled a great staff. Highlights:

Coach Davis: Instrumental in landing Isaiah Philmore. Recruits primarily the east coast. As a side note, Coach Davis sat at our table and he and I joked about him wearing a red shirt to AFO last year. It was great to listen to him talk about his experience at Xavier so far.

Coach Kelsey: Coach Mack mentioned that Coach Kelsey had to make a decision, and that he made the right one for his family. Mack said there was nothing else to read into the situation.

Coach Steele: If there’s a player or coach in Indiana, Steele knows about them.

Growe and Mercurio: Stated he has been impressed with Growe’s work ethic and his quick rise in the basketball ranks. Coach Mack said that Mario is one of the best in the country at what he does.

Coach Richardson: Excited to have him on staff. Fans will be impressed with what he brings to the table.

Xavier has a tradition of developing players. This summer is no exception.

Frease: working in Houston for Senior season and NBA camps. Believes Kenny has improved from last year.

Redford: Progressing. Hardest part is keeping Brad from coming back to quickly. Staff constantly reminding him that it’s better to be ready for the start of the season, than to be ready for pick-up games.

Taylor: Unorthodox, but he puts the ball in the basket. Will help Kenny with rebounding.

Martin: Believes that he will help alleviate some of the pressure on the 4&5. More of a Derrick Brown type wing player so far.

Wells: Strongest of the newcomers. Excited to see what he brings to the floor.

McKenzie: Has put on 15 pounds. Might be the second best shooter on the team. Didn’t think he would see much time at the 3.

Coach though both Tu and Cheeks has the potential to be our lock down defender this season.

Some personal highlights for me were talking to Byron Larkin, Muskieman (lightning did not strike us), Frambo, Xavier Bob, and Coach Davis. It was a great night, and I’m happy I made the trip.

I believe that about covers what I remember. If you’ve never taken the time to head out to the Steak Fry before, I’d highly recommend it. It’s a chance to make new relationships, see old friends, rub elbows with Byron Larkin, and get excited about Xavier Basketball. I hope to see everyone there next year.