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The Wolverine Experience
Sierra College head basketball coach John Fusano is entering his sixth year as a coach of the Wolverines. Here are some of Coach Fusano's thoughts on Sierra College, his program and what to expect from him.
What do you consider to be some of the strengths of Sierra College?
"Even though the school is growing rapidly it still has a small "family" atmosphere that exists on campus. Although I am only entering my fifth year as coach here at Sierra, it is very clear to me that the focus of the faculty is to teach each individual student, which provides for a very personalized approach to high education"
What are the strengths of your basketball program?
"Just as with college, I feel the family atmosphere that exists in our program is our biggest strength. We are much more than a basketball team, we are a way of life. Whether it is study hall, weight lifting, camping, bowling, team meals, or practice on the court, we are together all year long. I take great pride in developing more than just basketball players. I want to develop people. There is a definite work ethic and discipline that is taught in our program that will stay with our players the rest of their lives"
What can incoming student athletes expect from you and Sierra college?
"I can promise that three things will happen to incoming basketball players at Sierra College: 1st - they will be required to and held accountable for making every scheduled class meeting. I cannot promise that every player wil excell in the classroom and transfer, but I can promise that I will create an environment that is conducive to graduating and moving on. 2nd - they will be much better basketball players when they leave than when they arrived. This will be accomplished through hard work, individual instruction and enthusiasm. 3rd and most importantly, they will be better people when they leave. I can promise this because of the environment they will be exposed to at Sierra College. The faculty and support staff at Sierra are personable, enthusiastic and care for their students."
What kind of student athlete are you looking for?
"First and foremost, I look beyond the student's athletic ability. I want young men who are enjoyable, fun and want to work hard. I want young men that have goals and aspirations to further their athletic and academic career. In order to exist in my program you must value your education. I want young men who will act as ambassadors for the college, young men our community can be proud of."
What is your goal at Sierra College?
"My goal is simple - for every player that goes through my program to earn an AA degree and transfer to a four year institution, hopefully on scholarship. While winning is very important, it is not my lone motivator. Leading our team to overachieve beyond its physical limits and helping every player grow personally are equally as important as winning. I want to create an environment that is so unique and special that each player will never forget the experience."
E-mail: jfusano@sierracollege.edu