SEC Tipoff Blog: Frank to leave Mizzou in better place
If it just means more in the SEC, imagine what her fifth and final college season means to Hayley Frank. Imagine being a Missouri native trying to restore the Missouri program to glory.
For all of her individual accomplishments in four seasons in Columbia, from an SEC All-Freshman Team debut to an All-SEC first-team senior year, the 6-1 forward has yet to enjoy a trip to the NCAA Tournament.
"I definitely want to finish this year in a good way, get us back to the NCAA Tournament and know this program is in a good state," Frank said. "I take a lot of responsibility to leave this program in a better place."
Frank is one of seven Missouri natives on the roster. She took the home-state baton from Missouri legend Sophie Cunningham and will pass it on to the next in-state Gatorade High School Player of the Year in freshman Grace Slaughter.
"Homegrown kids are important to us," coach Robin Pingeton said. "Even for a fan base, the opportunity to be able to support players that they've watched growing up through high school, watching AU games, players that played against each other or with each other, that creates just an opportunity to really get to know these players on a much deeper level than just on the court. I think that's really helped us elevate our attendance and the excitement around our program."
The Tigers want to rekindle that excitement this season. Pingeton is No. 3 among current SEC coaches with 560 career victories, but there was public discussion about her future as last season ended with a second-round WNIT loss to Kansas. She was frank on that subject Thursday.
"People have asked, 'Do you feel pressure?' " she said. "To be honest with you, when I think of pressure, I think of what's going on in the Middle East right now. I think it really puts things in perspective."
As does having Frank back for a fifth season.
"Still working on how to get her a sixth year," Pingeton kidded. "You talk about someone's heart posture, the way that they lean into their teammates and support them. It's never been about Hayley Frank in her eyes. It's always been about how can I help elevate my team."
Her team, her school and her state.