If there ever was perfect timing to sustain a serious injury, Mark Walters picked it.
During individual off-season workouts in late May, the UNM freshman suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. The injury came two months after the 2002-03 regular season and doctors projected six months would be needed for a full recovery.
But the unrelenting Walters surpassed all expectations. He is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation program, defying doctors and critics alike. However, his stellar progress did not come easy.
"The trainers and doctors I worked with at the University of New Mexico are the best around," Walters said. "I can't say enough about how much they helped me progress. They kept me working hard and were there every step, encouraging me to never let up."
While others were soaking up the sun, Walters' summer was filled with daily rehabilitation workouts. Two to four hours a day, five days a week, Walters was busy working on his balance and strength at the Tow Diehm athletic facility.
After four to eight weeks of waiting to regain flexibility and comfort in his knee, Walters made gradual progress rebuilding his strength. Walters said he will be 100 percent by the regular season opener, and well-prepared to embark on his sophomore campaign.
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Walters won the hearts of Lobo fans and the respect of MWC players and coaches with his leaping ability and explosive style of play. In his first year of Division I basketball, Walters strutted to the tune of 9.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game; good enough to lead all MWC freshmen in scoring and rebounding.
The 6-foot-2 Albuquerque native became a pivotal part of the team's backcourt. He took full advantage of the opportunity he was given, playing in every game, including 20 starts.
The always-smiling Walters is eager to put the injury behind him and prove to his teammates and the league that his injury is a thing of the past. He is ready to start right where he left off last year.
"I'm real excited," Walters said. "I'm more excited than I have ever been playing basketball. Sitting and watching my teammates play this summer, I realized how much I miss the game. I am ready for a big-time role, on and off the court."
A big-time role is exactly what Walters will have. His contribution to this year's young and inexperienced squad will go beyond his presence on the hardwood, it will also go behind closed doors.
Walters was recently named a team captain along with senior Ryan Ashcraft. Walters, who is only a sophomore, is now responsible for on-and-off the court camaraderie of the entire team. Walters said he is willing to take on the responsibility.
"It doesn't matter that I'm a sophomore and a captain," Walters said. "The team is so close. Whether you're a freshman or a senior on this team, we're tight all the way through. I'm glad to take this role. This is my first leadership experience at this level, but I learned how to deal with the role in high school."
Walters has come a long way since his May injury, especially mentally. By sitting out and watching this summer, Walters said he learned what it takes to be a champion.
"You see things differently when you're not on the court. Now I know that every second I'm on the court I have to go hard and give everything I have. My teammates as well - we only know to give 110 percent."
