Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Greg Dauer

The Sailors have charted a course for Jacksonville. With a 66-55 victory over Plant (23-7) in the FHSAA Class 7A-Region 3 final Feb. 28, Sarasota boys basketball (24-6) secured its second straight trip to the state semifinals. It will play Oak Ridge (20-9) at 3 p.m. March 13 in UNF Arena. Sophomore guard Greg Dauer, who averages 9.1 points per game, led the team with 20 in the regional final. Dauer is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week. 

What clicked for you in the regional championship?

Our whole identity is defense, so if we just lock it up, the offense will come. That first transition layup went in, and I was feeling good.

What does it feel like to be back in the state semifinals?

I was with Lakewood Ranch last season, but I was following (Sarasota). It's exciting and a great experience. Being with the guys and winning that past game... it's nice.

Why is this a special group of guys to be a part of?

It's been competitive. Everybody's trying to get everybody better. It's not easy. Everybody pushes each other.

Why do you think this team has been so successful?

The dedication — everybody's compelled. Everybody wants to be here, wants to work and wants to reach our goals.

When and why did you start playing basketball?

My dad (Greg Dauer Sr.) got me into it. At first, it was my sister (Sienna Dauer). She was at some league and I was watching. Ever since, I've loved it. We lived in South Carolina, then we moved up to Pennsylvania and then Sienna got a scholarship to go to IMG (Academy), so we came down here.

Why have you stuck with the sport after all these years?

There's just something about it. It's just a fast-paced game, and I like that. Everything's happening so quick and it's constant action.

Is there a quote or piece of advice that you've always carried with you?

My dad, he's just telling me, "Do something every day to make yourself better. Win the day."

If you could meet any professional athlete, who would you meet and why?

Michael Jordan, for sure. He's the GOAT.

If you could go anywhere in the world for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

I haven't gone to the Bahamas. Also St. Barts. Somewhere nice and warm.

What's a fun fact about you not many people know?

I'm ambidextrous. I don't really know what defined it, but one of my friends was like, "Hey, you're doing this with one hand and this with the other." It was in sixth grade.

What music do you listen to at practice or before games to get in the zone?

My dad's music — '80s. The Doobie Brothers, Eagles or any of that stuff, really.

Finish this sentence. Greg Dauer is...

Compassionate. Everything I take into account, I want to do the best I can at it. There's passion behind it.