Oct. 28, 2008
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - Steve DeMeo joined the UCF staff as an assistant coach in early in July. Since beginning the new gig, he has barely spent time in Orlando. Instead, the veteran assistant has been around the country on the recruiting trail.
DeMeo came to UCF after 10 campaigns at Providence. He helped guide the Friars to the postseason on five occasions.
DeMeo says that he enjoys educating people around the country about UCF and is happy to continue to build relationships on UCF's behalf.
"It has all been very positive feedback," DeMeo said. "The response has been very positive. It is just a matter of developing great relationships. A lot of people have great facilities, a lot of people have great campuses. Developing relationships is key."
Since beginning his college coaching career in 1988, DeMeo has been around some young squads. Still, he admits that mentoring a UCF group that includes seven true freshmen will not be an easy task this season.
"It is going to be challenging. There is no question about it," he said. "I think we have a great group of guys. They are willing to learn. If they are willing to learn, that will definitely help you build the team."
With the bevy of young players, one thing is certain for DeMeo and his fellow assistant coaches.
"We are going to spend a lot more time doing fundamentals," he said. UCF is slated to open the 2008-09 campaign at home on Nov. 16, hosting North Carolina A&T. The Knights will play 16 contests at the new UCF Arena during the season.
Season tickets are currently on sale. To order your season tickets today, and to learn more about the Fastbreak Club and other premium seating options, contact the UCF ticket sales office at (407) UCF-1000.
Before the season begins, fans will get a sneak peek at the Knights during the inaugural UCF Postgame Madness on Nov. 8. The free event at the new UCF Arena will be held following the conclusion of the UCF-Southern Miss football game. During the event, fans will be able to select their season ticket seat location and also watch the team participate in an inter-squad scrimmage.
For the latest news on the Knights, log on to UCFAthletics.com - the official site for UCF varsity sports. The site, which also contains ticket and Golden Knights Club donor information, is also the home of UCF's new online apparel store. Also visit UCFPhotos.com, the exclusive fan source for UCF action sports pictures.
Notes: The Knights were given Tuesday off. The team will return to the practice court Wednesday afternoon.