We have a lot of very good "team players" here at Boston College.
One of the best we have (and one of the best I have ever seen) is our only senior Tyler Roche. He has played more roles in his four years than any player I have coached. He began his freshman year getting very few minutes and did not play in a lot of games. Midway through the year, he saw his role change and his minutes increased significantly. By the end of the season, Tyler was in the starting line up and he started our last six games including post-season games in the ACC tournament and NCAA tournament. He hit two huge shots in a 2nd round NCAA game against Georgetown.
His sophomore year he started 23 games, but by the end of the year was reduced to a supporting role as we brought in a large class of freshmen who were now receiving more playing time. He never complained. He only worked harder.
Early in his junior year, Tyler made five of seven three pointers and singlehandedly helped us avoid an early non-conference upset. Then he came off the bench for all of his junior year as younger players were earning more minutes. He only worked harder and got better. Later that season, during a crucial game against sixth-ranked Duke, Tyler scored eight points including two crucial shots down the stretch which gave us a win that helped lead to a NCAA tournament berth.
In his senior year, Tyler has been named a co-captain and he has continued to accept multiple roles within our team. With players out during our first two games, he started and scored 30 points, on 10-12 from the field including four of five on three-pointers. The next game he played 39 minutes and scored 19 points, again shooting well on three-pointers (5-6). But after we were at full strength again, he embraced his role coming off the bench again. Sometimes he plays a lot and sometimes he plays as little as 10-12 minutes a game. Yet every time he steps on the floor he is prepared, he competes, he leads, and he produces.
Tyler's experience has made me appreciate the importance of "team players." Every coach needs them. Every winning team needs them. They are totally invested in the program. They accept any role necessary. They are loyal, hard working, tough, smart, and completely selfless. Competitive by nature, but willing to help their teammates any way they can. Extremely self motivated, but anxious to subvert their own success for the team's success. They understand that defense wins games. They are prepared to take the big shot when needed, yet always willing to make the extra pass to the open man. They jump at the chance to take a charge - the ultimate selfless act of a teammate (in my opinion) - because not only does it show you are in position to help your teammate who got beat by their man, but it reflects your willingness to help that teammate by giving up your body even when you know there is a good chance that it is going to hurt. Players who take charges are GREAT teammates.
Tyler takes charges! He is a great leader, a selfless person, and the ultimate "team player." Glad we have him!!
http://collegechalktalk.com/coachesDiary/boston_college/2009-10_releases/1.28.10duquette
