Carson High's Todd Ackerman, who grew up in Montana, was Carson's head track coach before making the switch to JV boys basketball and then girls varsity basketball.
DM: Basketball or track and why?
TA: Basketball. I'm more familiar with basketball. I've enjoyed working with both. There are a lot less numbers that you have to deal with in basketball. Basketball is so much more enjoyable. My dad and brother are basketball coaches. Being around it a lot, you pick up a lot more than just playing.
DM: Did you play basketball when you were younger, and what kind of player were you?
TA: I played at Sydney High in eastern Montana and at Miles Community College. I was first team all-state in high school. I played two years (at Miles) and then I just went to school at Western Montana.
DM: Once you transferred to Western Montana, did you miss playing sports?
TA: I did. I ended up just going to school. Then I turned around and worked the games. I did the stats (for the home games). I used it as a job because I got paid. I stay involved. I played intramurals.
DM: Do you have a favorite basketball player?
TA: I don't have a favorite player. I really enjoy college basketball. The atmosphere of the college game, especially at the major colleges, I really enjoy.
DM: How about a favorite team?
TA: No. I enjoy watching North Carolina and Duke just because they seem to play it the right way.
DM: How did you get involved in track at Carson?
TA: When I came here, I taught right next to Steve Pradere, and he asked if I was interested. That's how I got involved. I ran track in high school. I was a high hurdler. They played high school baseball in the summer in Montana, so you could play four sports.
DM: Have you seen basketball turn into a year-round sport?
TA: I think it started (a while back) with all the club stuff like soccer and volleyball. To compete, you have to have some kids that's all they do. Ninety-eight percent of the athletes in our school are not going to play in college. They might as play as many sports as possible. I'm still a believer if you are good they (colleges) will find you.