Hacker takes over

By Erik Buchinger

Eric Hacker was hired as the new head coach of the New London varsity girls’ basketball team, approved by the New London School Board on May 28.

Hacker said he is excited to get started in his first experience as a varsity head coach.

“It’s such a rich history and tradition with the program, and to be able to be part of that and move it forward is exciting,” Hacker said. “I’m excited to get to work and get into our open gyms and contact days this summer.”

Hacker has been with the New London girls’ basketball coaching staff the last two years as the junior varsity coach and varsity assistant.

Hacker said he was surprised the position came open after Troy Krause resigned on March 25.

“When we learned of Coach Krause stepping down, that’s when the process went into what’s next for me,” Hacker said. “At the point, I put my application in and the process played itself out. It was unplanned because we thought Coach would be around. You never anticipate him stepping down, so I wasn’t ready for it, that’s for sure. When an opportunity comes to you, you’re hopefully ready for it and take that leap of faith.”

Previously, Hacker was a part of the De Pere coaching staff for the girls’ basketball team that won the state title in 2017.

“I learned a lot in De Pere and was excited to come back to my hometown in New London,” Hacker said. “Now I’m ready to continue what Coach Krause built over the years.”

Hacker said his goal was to eventually become a varsity head coach.

“When I came to New London, that was really not on the radar as something anytime soon, but when the opportunity came up in town I thought it was exciting,” Hacker said. “It’s always been something that is an interest of mine to run a program and have it be an everyday type thing.”

Hacker is a full-time substitute teacher in the School District of New London.

“I spend time at all schools in the district, and I absolutely love it,” Hacker said. “I love the flexibility it gives me. I wouldn’t give it up for the world.”

Hacker said his goals for the program are to keep the respected history and tradition of the program and move things in a positive way.

“We’re also hoping to grow numbers at all levels from youth to the top,” Hacker said. “We’re looking to set up an up-tempo, in–your-face type of mentality. We’ve had a lot of success the last few years and hope to keep that train rolling with great kids and great support staff. It’s an exciting time to be a part of New London lady Bulldog basketball. I’m honored to be a part of it.”