Coach Nelson and Harris Wichard (NP ‘12) travel to Italy, Bosnia, and Croatia with USA Athletes

Coach Nelson coaching US Team against Italians

June 2009 – Venice, Italy

As an incoming freshman last year, I had very high expectations for Suny New Paltz as a basketball player and as a student. This past year I had a great time doing both of those things.  I learned a lot in a very short period of time, and grew up fast.  I felt I really matured as a person both on and off the basketball court.

After the basketball year was over, Coach Nelson asked me to be a part of a basketball team that would play overseas.  He was selected to coach a United States Athletes international team for college players. Our team consisted of division two and three players from throughout the country.

Team USA and Italian Team after US Victory

I was very excited that I was going to get the opportunity that very few get, representing your country and your school.  We played games in Bosnia, Croatia, and Italy.  Not only was the competition very good, (we played some professional players) but also the cultural experience is something I will not forget. Everyone should get the opportunity to experience something like this. I was excited to do something that I was not used to doing. It really helped broaden my horizon and help me grow as a person.

The trip was an overall success.  The team went 4-2 against some of the top teams in their respected countries.  Coach Nelson is going to take a team to Spain next year and I am certainly interested in going. As an incoming freshman you never know what kind of opportunities may arise as a basketball player at Suny New Paltz. This year we are playing an exhibition game against a division one program in Norfolk State.  And in the future an overseas trip is possible for the New Paltz program.  I had high expectations as a player at New Paltz and right now my after year one the expectations have been exceeded.

Harris Wichard Class of 2012

Coach Nelson and Harris in Venice

Coming out for the 2nd half against the Italians

Gondola Ride for Team USA

Next season is right around the corner. Our basketball team is ready to take the next step and contend for the SUNYAC title.

 Harris Wichard Class of 2012

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