Torin Francis Pushing Hard To Be Best

SMITHFIELD, RHODE ISLAND -- Torin Francis has the perfect attitude to handle his head coach David First. In fact, they both seem to thrive on each other's emotions.

Francis, a highly skilled 6-10, 220-pound forward from Tabor Academy in Massachusetts, played in two games this past weekend at the 2002 National Prep School Inviational held on the campus of Bryant College. Francis did not disappoint. Francis averaged 26 points and 10 rebounds in the two games.

But sometimes you couldn't tell as First kept pushing for more out of Francis. First is constantly motivating his players for a better effort. And Torin keeps on pushing harder to make that level satifactory to himself and First.

"You always have to have that way of thinking," Francis said. "You have to keep pushing yourself to be the best player you can be. It's always a goal of mine."

And it's First's goal too for all of his players. First constantly pleads with his players to run faster, to defend better, to rebound harder, and to dive for loose balls. "One hundred percent effort should always be expected," Francis said. "Nothing less is good enough."

Francis, who committed to Notre Dame last August 30th, said he has seen many Irish games this season. "I think I will be able to play an inside/outside type of forward," Francis said. "I am going to work on each part of my game. I speak to the coaches (Notre Dame) all the time. I keep them updated on what's happening."

Francis is hoping for a call from the McDonald's selection committee soon. "It would be nice to make the game," Francis said. "I am hoping I get selected."