The University of Miami Hurricanes basketball team is looked at as a team where all the success stems from the players and coaches, a statement that could not be farther from the truth. Behind the players and coaching staff there are the athletic trainers, strength and conditioning trainers, film directors and physical therapists that all contribute to their accomplishments.
But the real magic? The managers. The managers spearhead public relations, help with equipment, rebound for players all to make sure the coach can focus on improving the team.
Student manager and UM senior Aydin Melamed not only loves basketball but also the camaraderie that goes along with being a part of a team.
“My interactions with all the coaches and players are something that I really enjoy and I’m glad that it’s with UM,” Melamed said. “I appreciate everyone I work with and I am blessed to work alongside them.”
There are certain qualities needed to be a successful manager, but some are more important than others, such as time management, good listening skills and mainly, persistence.
“Be persistent in asking about people and making connections with people on the team and find someone that you know that works close to the team and eventually you’ll get your shot,” Student Manager and UM senior DJ Roman said.
Most managers started as players themselves, explaining their profound knowledge of the game and ability to help players improve. Student Manager and UM senior Kameron Whiteman played at the community college level in Illinois before transferring to UM.
“I realized my basketball career was coming to an end,” Whiteman said. “Now I enjoy seeing how practice works and the other side of the game because eventually, I want to be a coach.”
The Hurricanes Basketball team has 19 managers, each playing an important role in their everyday accomplishments. They build connections with the players and push the players to be the best that they can be.
“Helping players workout is something I look forward to every season,” Student Manager and UM senior Eddie Tefel said. “I was born and raised here as a UM fan too, and it’s nice to help our players get better. It’s just satisfying to see us work really hard and it’s a relieving feeling seeing the work translate to success in the game.