Unsung Hero: The Ballad of Robert Toste '08
by Tom Monfiletto '08Ron Harper, Jud Buechler, Nazr Mohammad. Do these names ring a bell? To the average sports fan, they shouldn't. But these three NBA players managed to sustain extremely successful careers without getting the notoriety that they deserved. Each of these players exemplifies a tremendous leader with unquestionable heart and devotion to the game of basketball. They have all played for more than three championship teams: teams that would not have won without their input on a daily basis.
On February 3, the Hamilton Men's Basketball Team defeated the defending Liberty League Champion St. Lawrence Saints. The Saints, whose nickname was obviously created by an extremely lazy individual, fought to stay in the game, but proved to be outmatched in the final minutes.
One can talk about Jay Simpson's '10 continued dominance on both ends of the court, or the consistent play of Ramunas Rozygys '09, or even the ability of Joe Manns '10 to go coast-to-coast like Tim Hardaway. However, I want to focus on the play of a certain individual that was crucial in the victory against the Saints, and has been crucial to the Continentals' sustained success over the past four years.
With eleven minutes left, Robert Toste '08 entered the game and handed his rolled up towel to Harlee Wood '09, an odd ritual that is carried out during every substitution. Toste immediately made his presence felt. He took the ball at the top of the key and drove into the lane as the three defenders flocked to him like teenage girls flock to Ashley Parker Angel. He then dished it out to a wide open Simpson, who has never missed a basket in his entire life. Simpson drained a three-pointer to put the Continentals up by six - a lead they would not relinquish.
Minutes later, Toste came up with a huge steal that threw a dagger into the hearts of the Saints. Chants of "We Love Toast" filled the fieldhouse.
Before arriving at Hamilton, Robert Toste enjoyed a superstar caliber high school career at Monroe Woodbury Senior High School in Highland Mills, New York. On national signing day, Rob had to make a tough decision between University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Syracuse University and Hamilton College. He decided to be a Continental.
Since he's been at Hamilton, Toste has been nothing short of outstanding in many different ways. He routinely shows up to practice hours beforehand to work on his shot. He spends countless hours watching film to improve his game and prepare for his next opponent.
He works as a leader on and off the court, as he maintains a commendable GPA with a strenuous course schedule. If he is in the game or on the bench, Toste is the first person to congratulate his teammate. Many refer to him as "the best teammate since Pee Wee Reese."
Whether it be diving after a loose ball or running sprints in practice, Toste puts every ounce of effort into everything that he does. He is not a regular starter and there are some games where he does not play at all. In either situation, Toste does everything that he can to help his team win. He never pouts or complains. He remains disciplined and keeps a positive attitude that reverberates to the entire team. He serves as a role model not only to his teammates, but also to athletes throughout the college.
One cannot coach heart, one cannot coach devotion, and one cannot coach fortitude. These three attributes are the key attributes of a winner. These attributes make Robert Toste a winner- on the court and off. Like Buechler, Harper, and Mohammad, Toste has played a vital role in the success of his team. Although his efforts may fly under the radar like the efforts of these three NBA players, his contributions to Hamilton's basketball program will be appreciated forever.
Everyone can learn some valuable lessons from Rob. There have been many student-athletes that have simply given up because of a lack of playing time or because of some minor instances of adversity. My message to you is this: if you ever think about quitting something that you love, first think about Robert Toste, and try to follow by his example.