During the recent Great Lake State Weekend (GLSW), Eric Menk ’96, a newly inducted member of the Lake Superior State University (LSSU) Athletic Hall of Fame, had the opportunity to connect with the current Lakers men’s basketball team. As he spoke with the players, his message went beyond basketball, offering valuable life lessons drawn from his own journey—both on and off the court.
Menk, reflecting on his own time as a Laker, shared how the excitement of preparing for a new basketball season brought back fond memories. “I told the team how excited I was for them and how being there has brought back so many great memories,” Menk said. He also emphasized the importance of the unique opportunity they have at LSSU, not only to play college basketball but to receive an education at the same time. “They have a great opportunity here to get an education and to play college basketball. Coach Hettinga has built a winning program, and they have a great opportunity to play for a future Hall of Fame coach and contribute to a winning program,” he explained.
Drawing on his experiences, Menk encouraged the team to make the most of their time at LSSU, both in terms of their athletic and academic pursuits. “Take advantage of that opportunity in every way possible,” he urged.
In addition to basketball skills, Menk stressed the importance of building good habits and character during their time as student-athletes. He reminded them that their college careers will eventually come to an end and that what follows is the start of a new chapter, where their work ethic and attitude will be key to future success. “For all of them, in one way or another, their time playing college basketball at Lake Superior State is going to end and they are going to start over, start at the bottom of wherever they go,” Menk said. “People with much more experience will be looking at them and assessing them based on their habits and character.“
Menk encouraged the players to focus on qualities like work ethic, attitude, communication, and how they handle adversity. “What is your work ethic like? What is your attitude like? How do you communicate? How do you respond to criticism? How do you respond to adversity? Do you point the finger and blame? Or do you take responsibility and help find a solution?” These, he explained, are the habits they can develop now, which will not only help them succeed on the court but will also benefit them in all aspects of life.
As the conversation continued, some of the players were curious about Menk’s professional playing career. Menk shared some of the challenges he faced during his time playing overseas, including being away from home in foreign countries where he didn’t know anyone. “I had to start over in a new country, or in a new league, and/or on a new team, with a new coach,” Menk recalled. “Sometimes that coach and many of my teammates struggled to speak English. It could get lonely. I spent many holidays by myself.” Despite these challenges, Menk emphasized how his work ethic, attitude, and communication helped him navigate difficult situations and achieve success in his professional career.
In closing, Menk expressed his excitement about the Lakers’ current season and encouraged the team to embrace the special opportunity they have. “I’m excited to follow this season,” Menk said. “I just wanted to emphasize what a special position all of you are in and encourage you to take advantage of the great opportunity you all have.“
Menk’s words left a lasting impression on the team, reminding them that success isn’t just about playing basketball—it’s about building character, resilience, and strong relationships that will last a lifetime.
