los al coach richard smith

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SoCalHoops High School News

Los Alamitos' New Head Coach:
Richard Smith--(Oct. 29, 1999)

Someone faxed us a copy of an article today from the Los Alamitos school newspaper (we'd give you the name of the paper too, but we don't know it, and it wasn't included in the fax). The article is a profile of Smith, and it's at least informative, so we thought we'd share it with everyone.

The article was written by Robert Guo, copy editor for the student newspaper, and was published today, October 29, 1999. We're not going to post the entire article, but just the highlights:

New Varsity Basketball Coach Leads the Griffins Into The 1999-2000 Season
Boys Basketball: The Griffins have a new coach, who is respected by his players

Robert Guo
Copy Editor

As the new Boys' Basketball Head Coach, Richard Smith presents an unusually laidback and cordial attitude. He had recently been appointed Head Coach after the abrupt resignation of Coach Brooks three weeks ago.

Any person will instantly perceive why the school had selected Smith. He has had formidable expperience, previously coaching basketball at Servite (88-92); Smith led his team to become the 1990 State Champions and 1991 CIF [Southern Section] Champions. Orange County Coach of the Year, CIF [Southern Section] Coach of the Year all further enhance his credentials. "He knows a lot about the game, and he is going to help our team," commented senior guard Jeff Smith. Although he has only coached four league games at Los Al and cannot fairly assess the team, he considers the team to be a "very talented, hardworking, experienced group." He does not make any promises but states that he is "excited about the prospects of our season."

Fortunately Coach Smith's relationship with the players has gone well. Center Jeff Grgas confirms that although it's too early to tell, "We're going to get along; there are a lot of seniors and leadership, and we'll be able to handle it." As time goes on, Smith will develop a stronger bond with the players. "We'll get along fine," said Ken Carter. He's a nice guy and will do good things for the team." Many players hold similar views and hopes about their new coach and their future. Also, Smith displays a more involved approach towards coaching. "He is the only coach that has run with the team," exclaimed Jeff Smith. [Coach] Smith's first and foremost goal for the team has been and always will be for "them to come as close to achieving their potential as possible." The players, however, have more lofty goals. "Our main goal is to stay focused and win the league championship," affirmed Carter.