Coach White sits with players
AJ Allodi (left) & Mark Pancratz (right)

Encore!

    Stan White started coaching ten years ago because his son Jon and nephew Adam both wanted to play AAU. Despite both of them graduating high school next year Stan White has decided that he will continue his tenure as "Coach White."

    With top players Eddy Curry, Najeeb Echols, Jason Straight, Ronald Howard and Joshua Williams on his Illinois Gold and Illinois Select teams they have participated in tournaments this summer ranging from venues throughout Illinois to Florida and North Carolina. With two star-studded lineups it is without doubt that they have come upon much success.

    Unlike most high profile AAU teams Coach White decided to have his teams not be supported by any shoe companies or sponsors, with each person's parents paying his or her son's own way.

    With all but two of his players graduating next year he credits those two players, 6'9" James Augustine from Lincoln-Way and 6'6" Marcus White from Whitney Young, for his reason in staying for another year. "I've got some kids that are coming back and I'm not going to bail out on them," said White. As opposed to last year, he will keep just one team, the Illinois Gold.

    Also, next year he looks to receive sponsorship from a NBA player to help out with team expenses. "Next year I hope to get just enough to break even by donations from that player who will stay undisclosed because he still needs to work that into his contract."

    With a sponsorship worked out for next year there is still a roster of players that needs to be filled. Ideally, Coach White would like to stay with the Chicago Area theme. However, this year's Central and Northwest Illinois players fit into the equation rather nicely. "Peoria's Marcellus Sommerville was special because he was always able to receive a ride from the Smith Family (son Mike plays for Normal West). Everyone else's parents were extremely good in providing rides. I've been approached by some of the major non-Chicago area high school coaches about their players for next year but I haven't made up my mind on that."

    With a few things still to be worked out before next summer, one thing is certain: Stan White will have a squad full of eager players looking to get exposed, learn and most importantly, have a good time.

 

 


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