The Wright fit in the Desert

Head Coach Gerry Wright is doing things different in the desert than other programs around the state. Wright who is head coach at Barstow Community College has brought an international flavor to his program. Each year if you scroll down a roster sheet of the Vikings, you will find players from all over the world. Wright had playing experience overseas and uses that as advantage in the recruiting game. The head coach has had 23 players that have come from across the water and 21 of them have left the program with a chance to play at the four year level. As numbers like that spread, it makes his job a little easier to get them to come to the desert. “I have had success moving guys on so I have guys recruiting our program,” said Wright. Wright just does not rely on international players but you can find his rosters filled with out of state players. “Getting California kids to come to Barstow is hard,” added Wright.

The international flavor has been a trademark of the Viking program but respect is the first word that describes the culture of the program. Respect was the first word described by Wright when asked about the staples of the Viking program. “You have to respect the game, your teammates and the coaches,” said Wright. “I want guys that bring energy, effort, and let me bring my philosophy,” added Wright. The philosophy is not just on the court as Wright takes pride in changing players lives after they leave the desert school. “We have the opportunity to change their lives through athletics,” added Wright. Changing lives does not always translate to wins or losses on the court. A lot of players going through the junior college experience realize this could be there last chance to further their career with a chance for a free education. “Winning and losing is a part of it but the longevity in changing their lives is the bigger picture,” added Wright.