Francisco named men's basketball coach of the year

Michael Francisco helped the Université de Saint-Boniface Les Rouges make a huge breakthrough this year.
For the first time, the men's basketball team has made the MCAC championship game.
Francisco led the young Les Rouges program to a 4-4 record, and is the MCAC coach of the year.
"Taking over a program with a losing record is never easy, but Michael embraced the challenge. In a short period of time, he has elevated the program to new heights," said USB athletic director Zoe Savoie.
"I have complete confidence that every student-athlete on his team is growing under his leadership each and every day. I am incredibly proud of what he has accomplished and excited to see what the future holds for Michael and our men's basketball program."
Francisco's players feel he made a huge impact as well.
"Coach Mike really changed our culture by pushing us to be a true team and support each other. He introduced GEMs (Good Energy Mentions) to recognize positivity and motivation, which kept us striving to lift one another up," said Tristan Jace Capuno. "He always said small wins, like being on time, communicating, and doing the little things, lead to big wins on the court."
"Coach Michael didn't just add a thousand plays; he also changed our identity," added Russel Mboda. "Under his leadership, every drill and every game is approached with a standard of getting better every day to be all together and united come playoff time."
Les Rouges take on the undefeated Canadian Mennonite University Blazers in the final on Sunday at CMU at 7 p.m.
The all-conference team will be announced on Saturday.