Timeout with Todd Ackerman

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.