Editor’s Note: Interested in free weekly updates from Northern Michigan? Sign up for the PINE VIEW!
Roscommon Middle Schoolers are dabbling into writing and interviews in their Journalism class, led by teacher Amanda Laskey. Teachers voted and selected articles by Lillian Baerlocher and Breann Farner for this month’s Faces of the Future.
By Breann Farner (7th)
I interviewed Mr. Collins about what it’s like to coach the Kirtland College basketball team while also working as a school secretary. When I asked if coaching basketball is fun, he said he finds it very fun but also challenging, especially because he coaches at a higher level.
His first game of the season was on Friday. Even though his team lost by four points, he said they played hard the entire time and continued to improve throughout the game. His favorite thing about this team is how resilient they are—they never give up.
When I asked why he started coaching, Mr. Collins explained that both his uncle and dad coached basketball, which inspired him. He always knew he wanted to coach too, but he wanted to work with players who were older than high schoolers, which is why he chose the college level.
Mr. Collins also shared advice for students who play basketball. He said students should always focus on school first and then think about basketball after. He also said it’s important to be kind to your teammates, because if you don’t get along with someone on your team, it can make the season much harder.
A lot of people might wonder how he stays organized with both school and basketball responsibilities. Mr. Collins keeps the two separated—mornings and afternoons are for school, and after school is basketball time.
If you’re on the basketball team or thinking about joining, make sure to ask Mr. Collins for advice—he knows a lot and is always willing to help players improve.
