One of the questions a coach asks himself when evaluating a player is; does this player want to improve and will he put in the time to do so? Ryan Merz certainly checks that box and many more. Last year as a Junior Ryan was part of the team that won a Sectional championship title for the first time in over 60 years. While he may not have shown up on the stat sheet he certainly helped with his effort and attitude. During practice Ryan would push players to get better by making them work harder. Ryan went into the offseason determined to now focus on making himself better.
Over the summer, with most camps and AAU teams cancelled, it was up to Ryan to find ways to improve his game. Whether it was shooting practice in the driveway, dribbling drills in the street or workouts in the basement it is now paying off. This season Ryan has stepped into a starting role for Lancaster. He has improved in all aspects of the game as well as in his physical abilities. Before one of the games I walked in early and saw a player dunk and asked Coach Otto who that was. When he told me it was Merz I was a little surprised that a player had improved his leaping ability that much, but not shocked that it was Merz who had put the time in to do so. This season Ryan has the teams best assist/turnover ratio and is second in 3pt%. Coach Otto said, "Ryan is a hard worker. Everyday he pushes himself to learn new moves and the game of basketball. Those things have led him to having a big role in this years team." With his work ethic there is no doubt Ryan has a successful future ahead of him.
Here are a few questions Ryan answered for me.
Where are you going to college?
Medaille College
What are you majoring in?
Sports Management
Favorite sports memory you were involved in?
Winning the Sectional title last year.
Favorite sports memory you were NOT involved in?
Watching the Bills snap their playoff drought.
What sports moment still leaves a bad taste in your mouth?
Having last year's basketball season cancelled on us before getting to play in the FarWest regional game.
Do you have any pregame ritual?
Not really.
What is your favorite post game meal?
Chick-fil-A
What Senior moment do you miss most not being able to experience because of the pandemic?
Not being able to play in front of the student section.
Favorite sports team?
Bills and Syracuse
Favorite player?
Carmelo Anthony
Who wins 1 on 1, you or your brother?
I do, 100%
Is there something you will take away from this pandemic that will stay with you?
I learned that you have to be able to adapt to changes in life.
Something people would be surprised to know about you?
I can dunk, on a good day.
Who do you look up to the most?
My parents.
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