April 30, 2008

By Ken McDowell Sports Editor

Amy Marin shouldn't have any problem adjusting to the style of basketball that Northern Junior College (NJC) Plainswomen like to play.

The former Caliche Lady Buffaloes basketball star is the newest member of the Plainswomen program after signing her Letter of Intent to play for Coach Darrel Parker the next two years.

Marin started four years in a Caliche program that traditionally plays a high-tempo, run and gun style of basketball. That is why she should fit right in with Parker and the Plainswomen.

"We like Amy's versatility," Parker added. "She is one of the top players in this area and an All-State player from a small school. We have had a lot of success in our program with kids from small schools. "They come in with a good base from a good program, and they have that work ethic that you don't get from some other places. There is also a vested interest in the community when we get the local player of Amy's caliber, so we're looking forward to her playing at NJC."

Marin was also a starter on the Caliche volleyball team and helped the Lady Buffs advance to the Final Four in the Class 1A State Tournament last November. She is also a four-year letter winner in track.

"I wanted to go to NJC because it is close to home so my friends and family members can come and watch me play," she said. "I didn't want to go very far away, and I just wanted to play basketball."

Marin added that NJC is a perfect fit for her style of play. "NJC plays a fast-paced game, and that's what I enjoy," she said. "I am familiar with Coach Parker's program and that he is an awesome coach, and that also made me really want to come here."

Marin leaves behind many fond memories playing at Caliche for Coach Dave Huss the last four years. "I have so many memories at Caliche, especially going to the state tournament my junior year," she said. "But now that I'm going to NJC I know that I will need to get into the weight room, improving my shot and being more active in the offense."

During her senior year at Caliche, Marin averaged 14 points, five steals and five assists per-game. Parker feels that Marin can step in and contribute right away for the Plainswomen.

"We know that Amy has a great work ethic, and that's one of the biggest steps you have to take at this level," he said. "We hope that she can step right into our program, and that's why we signed her. "That will come through the practices and she has a good chance to compete right away with the players that we have. That's why we signed her."

Amy is the daughter of Gary and Joan Marin, and she will major in accounting at NJC.