Collins Takes the Helm at South Arkansas College

A new chapter begins for South Arkansas College men’s basketball as Eric Collins, previously associate head coach at the University of Maine-Augusta, accepts the head coach position, bringing his leadership over 1,700 miles south.

Smooth Transition to New Home

Collins, a U.S. Army veteran with prior Southern postings, notes that the warm El Dorado community eased his relocation. Though initially separated from his family, who will soon join him, he praises the locals for their support in finding housing and offering a welcoming atmosphere.

“I think the biggest adjustment I’ve had to make was just wrapping my head around coming down here without my family for a little bit,” Collins said, also highlighting the community’s receptiveness.

The Allure of South Arkansas College

Drawn to SouthArk’s competitive Division II JUCO status, Collins felt it was the right fit after meeting the athletic director, interview committee, and the president. He was looking for positions in the South.

“I was looking at positions in the South, and this job popped up,” Collins stated. “I didn’t know a whole lot about South Arkansas College…once I got here and met some of the people…I knew this was the place I wanted to be.”

Recruiting Blitz Underway

Recognizing the immediate need for a competitive roster, Collins prioritized recruitment, leveraging connections in Florida to secure promising talent. Currently, the team anticipates having 14 to 15 athletes, awaiting the final letter of intent.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

While acknowledging the privilege of his position, Collins emphasizes that success hinges on collaborative effort: faculty support, staff dedication, and player commitment are crucial.

“It’s a blessing to have this opportunity, but it’s really the staff and players that are really going to build and make this team,” Collins noted. “The title is great, but really, we all need to make sure that we’re all in this together.”

Assistant Coach Stays On

Continuity is ensured with assistant coach Dominic Weems remaining in his role, offering invaluable assistance to Collins. Weems’s established relationships with players and knowledge of the program are proving essential.

“Coach Weems has been a huge help,” said Collins. “He’s been instrumental to me in helping with housing and athletes, how things work around here. I can’t say enough great things about coach Weems and how much he’s helped. I’m super excited to work with him.”

Professionalism On and Off the Court

Collins aims to instill professionalism in his players, emphasizing exemplary conduct in academics and athletics. According to the NCAA, student-athletes must maintain a minimum GPA to remain eligible for competition (NCAA.org).

“We’re really looking at putting professionals out there,” Collins asserted. “We want them to be professionals in the classroom and professionals out on the court…they’re going to act like professionals on the court. We’re not going to worry about what the officials are doing, we’re not going to worry about what the people in the stands are doing.”

Community Engagement

Collins passionately invites the SouthArk community to support the team, promising an exciting, competitive style of play. His vision includes strong ties with the city, fostering mutual support and involvement.

“We want to be a big part of the community, as well as having the community in the gym with us,” he said.

Collins emphasizes the program’s dedication to community ambassadorship, welcoming collaboration and support.

“I want to make sure people know the culture here,” Collins stated, emphasizing authenticity in their community engagement efforts. “We are really authentic when we say we want to be a part of the community. We welcome the community with us. I want to be hand in hand with the city. I’m really happy that I’m here and I’m blessed that I’m here…and I thank everybody for everything that they’ve done already.”