Muller Proud of First Year on ISU Bench
By: Michael Klos - WMBD/WYZZ-TV
Updated: March 19, 2013
WMBD/WYZZ-TV - Normal, Ill. - Being head coach at Illinois State was part of a dream come true for Dan Muller.
From the moment he walked on Doug Collins Court for the first time this season, it brought him back to his years as a player.
"The excitement of being back at Redbird Arena on game night. The fans, student section, and band," said Muller. "All those things I remember as a players, and you know as a part of being a coach, were unbelievable."
The Redbirds' season came to a close this week and Muller says one of the hardest thing he's had to do is say goodbye to his four seniors, the Anthony Cousin, John Wilkins, Tyler Brown, and Jackie Carmichael.
"We'll really miss our seniors. But to be here and represent Illinois State is awesome," said Muller.
Even though he didn't bring his team to the NCAA Tournament in his first year as head coach, Muller said the "on-the-job training is second to none."
"I think you learn from every team," said Muller, who was hired from Vanderbilt last May. "From these seniors, whether it was different personalities, I have to coach or push different buttons throughout the year. But how much these guys really wanted to win the tournament and get to the championship. I'm disappointed in myself that we couldn't do that."
Coach Muller will have some familiar faces, along with a new crop of players to try and get it done next year.
