Boyd starts early to turn Michigan City around

Former West Side boys basketball coach John Boyd was one of the most excited people in Indiana today as the first official practice of the season tipped off, marking the 100th year of IHSAA boys hoops.

Boyd, the new coach at Michigan City, had practice scheduled for 4:30 a.m. today.

"While the Region's sleeping, the Wolves'll be working," Boyd said. "I used to start the season at West Side at 5:30, but we start school an hour earlier out here. So we'll be happy to be the first team in the state to start the season."

After several below-average seasons, City hired Boyd, who won a state title at West Side in 2002. There's been a buzz at the basement-dwelling Duneland Athletic Conference school ever since the job became his in June.

"John's changing things," Michigan City athletic director Bear Falls said a few weeks ago. "He's changed the attitude and the belief system in the players and the community. We're looking forward to this season in a big way."

Boyd also has changed the Wolves' roster. Three West Side players from last year's roster -- Taylor Lavery, Reggie Clay and Alajuwon Edwards -- are now attending Michigan City. Boyd said he has not heard if the three-headed transfer has been approved by the IHSAA yet.

"I expect to find out this week," Boyd said. "But it shouldn't be a problem. All three of them are living out here now."

Boyd said 85 players are expected to attend today's tryouts. How many of them will have had time to eat breakfast before shooting jump shots is unsure.

"We're not OK with not winning anymore," Boyd said. "The community wants a winner. The players want a winner and I want a winner. That's why we're starting early. We've got a lot of work to do."

Boyd replaces Bob Buscher, who resigned after a 3-18 season. Boyd was 147-69 in nine seasons at his alma mater, which included winning the 2002 Class 4A state championship.

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