We are pleased to announce Samantha Bruce, the 2013 Mountain Valley Conference Player of the Year, from Madison Area High School has committed to play for the Lady Mustangs next year. A 4-year varsity basketball player at Madison, Bruce averaged 16 points and 5 rebounds this season to lead the Bulldogs to a 15-3 regular season and an appearance in the Class C West Regional Final. Sam is a 2-time MVC 1st Team All-Star in basketball, who also played softball and soccer in high school. She was also named a 2013 Maine McDonald's Senior All-Star this past season.
According to Sam several factors led her to select CM. "I was able to attend several games this past season and even stay for an overnight visit. I enjoyed the atmosphere around the entire campus and everyone seemed to work together and be supportive of each other. The size of the school and its location were also important factors."
"I loved how the team had such a positive attitude, and Coach Morong really makes them work hard to get the most out of them. They use the fast break a lot and they love to press, I think it's going to be a lot of fun to play like that."
On playing at the next level…
"The game is going to be so much faster at the next level and the shot clock really impacts the game. The competition level CM faces is very intense and games are very physical – everyone is more aggressive. I think I am definitely going to contribute next season. I am going to push myself and help the team succeed anyway I can."
Coach Morong's comments on Samantha Bruce…
"Sam is an immediate impact player. She has a great understanding of the game and she is a very hard worker. She can score from the perimeter and attack off the bounce. What impresses me most about her is that she is a relentless competitor but balances that with being VERY positive and encouraging – that is not something you see very often."
"Sam comes from a program, much like ours, that has a history and tradition of success. She had a great coach for 4-years who set high expectations, which is going to make her transition to the college game a lot smoother. We watched Sam play quite a bit this season and she was on campus multiple times – it really is a great fit. We are very excited that she, and her family, are joining the CM family."
