Rick Croy was formally announced Tuesday as the new men’s head basketball coach at California Baptist University.
The announcement was made during a press conference held to welcome Croy into the Lancer family. At the conference Croy answered questions from the media about what his plans are for the new season.
Croy discussed how thankful he was for the new opportunity to coach at CBU. He said that he has high hopes and great expectations for the basketball program that not only include the team, but the student body and community as well.
Croy said one of his goals is to “build a basketball program that the school and the rest of the community can be proud of.”
Croy said he wants the students and community to be involved because, “there’s nothing more special than a packed gym where the walls are sweating and every one can feel the passion.”
One of his main emphases for the team is individual character. He plans to instill the men with character and skills so that they will be able to be known for more than just their wins and losses.
One of the things Croy says he is blessed with is a good attitude, and that is something he plans to pass on through his coaching.
“Attitude will be something that is very important in our program,” Croy said. “We will be grateful each day for the opportunity we have been given at California Baptist. We will make no excuses and we will reflect that in the way we play.”
His hope is that this character will be something the students and community can see as an example to follow.
Croy is not the only one excited that he is joining the Lancer family, but the members of the basketball team are excited as well.
Before speaking at the press conference Croy was able to meet and speak with the men on his team.
Ivan Patterson, junior business administration major and member of the men’s basketball team, is anticipating his chance to play under the new head coach.
Croy’s last coaching position was an assistant coaching job at St. Mary’s, a National Collegiate Athletic Association Div. I school.
Prior to that he was the head coach for five years at Citrus College in Glendora, Calif. During his time there he lead the team to their first ever state championship.
Croy has previously worked in Riverside, which is why has a deep connection with the city. His first coaching position was at the University of California, Riverside. He worked under former UCR Head Coach John Masi from 2000-2001. He returned as the top assistant from 2002-2003.
