New coach looks to prove he is the real Diehl

To some, winning is everything. Success is solely based on the win-loss record, and they will not be appeased until they are holding up the grand trophy. To others, like girls varsity basketball coach Dave Diehl, it is the commitment and dedication that dictates triumph.

Following a semi-successful 2014 season that saw the lady Mustangs finish 13-11 with a midseason coaching change, MN is looking to start fresh with a new persona.

“I am kind of a combination of a couple of guys: John Wooden and Al Davis. Wooden’s belief is success is not about the result, but the process or the journey. Success is a mindset. Davis’s was just win baby,” Diehl said.

Even with a new team mantra and leader, the Mustangs are still looking towards the season. The goals remain the same as they always have been: get the job done every night.

“I am fully expecting us to go to state, and compete to win. I plan to help my team win every game. I think we can go all the way this year,” senior Amby Kanu-Asiegbu said.

In order to accomplish as much as the team is capable of, Diehl is looking towards a new system to build off of last season’s successes. Whether that includes a strategic or a psychological change, the team is ready.

“Every coach is different. You just walk in and do your things. The things that I do may be different. Change isn’t my goal. My goal is to implement my philosophy,” Diehl said.

Even with the transition to a new coach, the roster remains almost entirely intact from last season, but will also have to prepare new schemes for the upcoming season.

“We are doing new defensive and offensive sets. But we have a lot of returners so it will not be as much of a change. We just have to get better through the season,” senior Kerstin Douglass said.

Regardless of the potential the team has, they undoubtedly face their fair share of adversity. The Lady Mustangs are working on identifying each issue they may encounter.

“Our biggest challenge is the daily grind. We have the talent. We have the pieces. Look at the Warriors. They play hard and they play together. Every night they bring it. The question is can we bring it day in and day out. Our biggest challenge is ourselves,” Diehl said.

In just his first full season as head coach, Diehl is already shaping up the girls basketball program in his eyes. Time will tell if his plans will fall into place. Yet, the players seem to be buying all in on the ideas.

“Diehl is a great coach. He is always very enthusiastic and passionate, and has us ready to play,” Kanu-Asiegbu said.