Steve McNees

[GoZips]

This morning I arrived for basketball practice twenty-five minutes early. Two people were on the court.

Zeke Marshall and grad assistant Steve McNees.

They were working on several different shots from the foul line in. Zeke shot. Steve rebounded and offered

words of encouragement.

Slowly others came on to the floor. Zeke and Steve ignored them as they continued their routine.

Then practice began. Steve went about checking on different aspects necessary for a smooth running

practice session. Steve directed team managers with various tasks. He often does any number of tasks

himself. Pleasant, articulate and totally dedicated. A born gym rat.

During practice Steve works on the scout team. He presents a formidable foe thanks to his many years

of experience. He can still stroke the ball from three ball land. He still crashes the boards. Only, now

he also teaches. He enjoys it.

One of Steve's ideas has become a reality at Akron. Looking about the JAR Steve realized that there was

a lot of space available to conduct mini-practices. Steve convinced coach Dambrot to invest in a back

board, hoop and a "gun". The "gun" being a ball return machine. Now players can workout in the JAR

when ever they desire (with in reason). This mini-gym is located on the tier just outside of the Tommy

Evans lounge.

His personal goal is to become a college basketball coach. I think he will succeed.

I spent an hour and a half chatting with Steve's father Bill as we watched practice. Bill was a pretty fair

high school coach. He has retired from coaching high school basketball while remaining as a teacher.

Steve was as usual, one of the last off the court. Since Steve knew his Dad was treating him for dinner

that takes a lot of dedication. I imagine they spent a good part of their time talking hoops.

You need to come by and watch a team practice if for no more reason than to watch Steve develop his

craft; and to just say "hi".

[akronzips71]

He was always a clutch player for us. I hope he succeeds.

[Class of 82]

He was always a clutch player for us. I hope he succeeds.

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