New BSU men's hoops coach Boschee assembles staff
BEMIDJI – New Bemidji State head men’s basketball coach Mike Boschee has finally assembled his coaching staff. And both of Boschee’s assistants are very familiar with Bemidji State.
Ryan Montgomery, a BSU assistant the past four seasons, and Pat Cassidy, a former Beaver player, have been named assistant coaches for the upcoming season.
“I think they both bleed green a little bit,” Boschee said.
Boschee, the first-year head coach, said having Montgomery return for a fifth season wasn’t a given, but in he liked having that continuity to keep the program running smoothly.
“Any time you take over a program you have to evaluate all aspects,” Boschee said. “Certainly Ryan was evaluated, we did our due diligence, but when it was all said and done Ryan was the one we wanted to have.
“I felt like he would be able to keep the program running smoothly and there wouldn’t be a drop-off. I mean, I’m still learning where all the buildings are here. And Ryan knows Bemidji State inside and out. So does Pat. It makes my transition much easier.”
Montgomery enters his fifth season on the coaching staff at Bemidji State after serving as an assistant the past two seasons and as a graduate assistant from 2008-10.
Cassidy graduated from Bemidji State in 2011 after a successful four-year playing career for the Beavers. He played in 106 games (76 starts) and averaged 7.9 points and 4.0 rebounds per game in his four-year career.
Boschee said adding a former player was something he wanted to do, but wasn’t sure how Cassidy would fare as a coach just one year removed from playing.
“I always liked the idea of having someone on staff that’s played here and that is an alum,” Boschee said. “One of the questions was, would he be able to transition into a coaching role after playing with them? But he’s exceeded my expectations.
“For a young coach, he’s going to be a good one. He’s got good character, good work ethic and that’s what you’re looking for in a young coach.”
Cassidy will focus on recruiting, strength and conditioning, travel, post player development, academics and offense. Montgomery will specialize in recruiting, game preparation, perimeter player development and defense.
Boschee said both coaches know Minnesota and will be very valuable on the recruiting trail.
“Ryan’s been here a couple of years, so he knows the area very well and he knows Minnesota very well,” Boschee said. “Pat can add a different dimension, being a former player for the program. He works well with high school seniors, others interested in joining the program. I hope they can help build the program.”
The Beavers, fresh off a 22-9 season and a conference title, begin the 2012-13 season Oct. 15 with their first practice. They’ll take on Colorado-Colorado Springs in their first game Nov. 15 in Winona.
