Sherry Dunbar's challenge

[hoosierman]

Admittedly, I know very little about Dunbar, just that she did a fine job at the College of Charleston, and took them to some NCAAs, which is a tough thing to do.

Because I'm a homer I must say I was sad to see Weismiller go, because she really was a great person. Yes, I know, the program was in shambles, and nice doesn't get you anywhere. So moving on, does anyone here think that Dunbar can change the misfortune at Indiana within a couple of years? Maybe three or four? What's the word on Dunbar? What's her coaching style? She has brought in IU's very first foreign player, and I just hope that's not what she's banking on: there's obviously some very fine talent in the Midwest, and with some improving results, maybe Dunbar can get those kids to come to Indiana, which is a great school in itself.

[bulldog3]

As you attempt to answer the question as to whether IU moves up under the leadership of Dunbar, you have to determine who does IU jump over in the Big Ten? Certainly international athletes can put more talent on the floor, but it is a crap-shoot when you bring foreign players into your chemistry. Things will be better than they were before. They just about have to be. Any change was going to provide some sort of a spurt, however, I don't see any teams in the Big Ten going backwards at this time.

[iknowiu]

Here is a link to IU's recent website post on this year's Hoosieirs:

iuhoosiers.cstv.com/sports/w-volley/spec-rel/081307aab.html

The play last Spring was very good...especially when you consider there were only 7 players left with one on the sidelines due to injury.

I expect the biggest change (even more than the incoming players) to be the mental shift of the experienced players. Believing in the coach is huge. That is Dunbar's responsibility. Gaining that respect and belief will filter into this year's team atmosphere. Add to that the talent of incoming players...and it is the additional boost needed to move up. Don't know her coaching style...we shall see. She certainly changed the roster.

Agree that Weismiller is a wonderful person.

We all have our favorite team(s). Am tired of IU bashers' remarks. It's fine to disagree. But previous comments (in other threads) about coach Jack are not appreciated, humorous, or intelligent. Don't know him...but see no reason for personal negative remarks in a public forum.

[hoosierman]

And what about Hilgenberg, the freshman setter from the Chicago area? Is she a setter around which the program can be rebuilt?

[INcrediBall]

I've had the opportunity to meet Dunbar and I can say that she is no Weismiller.

W was/is a very nice person. D shocked a few in the athletic department b/c she's, well.. it's not that she's not a good person, but she has the intensity that the IU folks don't expect from a volleyball coach. After all, she's a girl, and she coaches volleyball, and what right does she have axing players who's families have long time ties to the University? So what if a player does not have Big Ten ability? The fans like the athlete, and for Pete's sake- it's only volleyball. After all, it's not like the team practices in Assembly Hall.

Dunbar will be good for the program. She has the ability to lead her troops into battle and push them into victory. Confidence- if you will. Her challenge will be keeping her team focused after the losses, as well as the wins. Dunbar's style is more old- fashioned, kick-in-the- pants. Not the mind games that W seemed to slip into at mid season.

Jack is just pure energy. I'm pulling for the Womens BB team so that he'll be able to stick around
B'town a few years.

Of course, the most important key is the players. Hall is a huge asset, the type of player IU should have been able to recruit all along. I hope Short has stepped up her game like Dunbar says she has. Benson wants to play- she may push the other MBs to work harder. I don't know a thing about the new setter.