PUC Chronicle

Issue date: 1/29/07 Section: News

Long-time high school coach Russ Marcinek has been named acting coach of the men's basketball team as of last week.
The former coach and athletic director of Morton High School in Hammond has come out of retirement bringing with him close to 30 years of experience coaching at Crown Point High School and Lake Station High School, then known as East Gary.
Several others were considered for the position but opted not to leave their current teams mid-season.
"I tried to think of anyone who could do a better job and I couldn't," said Interim Athletic Director John Friend.
As acting coach, Marcinek is under a five-month contract. His task is to restart and reorganize the program after its cancellation. Marcinek intends to help the players in every area of their game, including academics.
"I'm excited to get this opportunity... I really enjoy coaching," said Marcinek.
Marcinek feels his biggest challenge will be convincing recruits PUC is the place to play.
There will only be a handful of players returning after eight were declared academically ineligible, cutting short the 2006-07 season.
"We're trying to get a stable program for the kids. We want kids to come here knowing that nothing like the cancellation will happen again," said Marcinek.
Marcinek has been busy with the recruiting process, talking to players and attending practices and games throughout the Lake and Porter Counties.
Friend expects a full coaching staff by summer and said at least 20 games have been scheduled with more to follow.
Marcinek plans to start a weightlifting program and practices in the coming weeks. With the shortage of players a general tryout will be held open to anyone interested in playing.
After Marcinek's five-month contract is up, he hopes to be a part of the basketball program and will have the opportunity to be considered for the head coaching position.
"Bringing in Russ definitely puts this program on the rise," said Friend.

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