Ernie is the founder of Duncan Hoops and the current Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Champlain Valley Union High School (CVU). A standout guard at the University of Vermont from 2014 to 2019, Ernie finished his collegiate career ranked 10th in career points (1,489), 2nd in career 3-pointers made (308), and holds the program record for career 3-point percentage (.419). His accolades include America East All-Conference First Team (2019), Second Team (2018), Third Team (2017), All-Defensive Team (2018), and All-Rookie Team (2016), as well as National Association of Basketball Coaches All-District Second Team honors in 2019. ​Ernie played a pivotal role in leading the Catamounts to two NCAA Tournament appearances. In his senior year, he and his younger brothers, Everett and Robin, made history as the only trio of brothers to play together in an NCAA Tournament game. ​After college, Ernie chose to remain in Vermont, dedicating himself to developing young athletes through Duncan Hoops, which offers training, clinics, and camps. His commitment to mentorship and player development extends to his role at CVU, where he emphasizes building strong relationships and teaching the game the right way.

Robin Duncan is a former University of Vermont standout, former professional basketball player, and the Head Boys Basketball Coach at Mt. Vernon High School. A 6’5” guard from Evansville, Indiana, Robin was a key player for the Catamounts, helping lead UVM to multiple America East Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. During his career, Robin developed a reputation as one of the most complete players in program history — finishing top-10 all-time in assists, rebounds, and minutes played. His ability to impact the game on both ends and elevate those around him made him a cornerstone of UVM’s success. At Duncan Hoops, Robin brings the same intensity, IQ, and attention to detail that defined his college career. He specializes in player development, guard skills, game reads, and building confidence through consistency and accountability. Robin’s sessions emphasize high-level skill work, leadership, and game-ready habits for players of all ages.

Tian Ragle is currently the Head Manager for the University of Vermont Men’s Basketball program, where he plays a key role in the day-to-day operations of one of the top mid-major programs in the country. Through his work with UVM, Tian has gained valuable experience in practice preparation, player development, and scouting support. His strong basketball knowledge, attention to detail, and energy make him a valuable addition to the Duncan Hoops staff, where he is committed to helping players improve their skills and grow their understanding of the game.

Emma is a current guard for the University of Vermont women’s basketball team and a proud Zionsville, Indiana native. A four-year varsity starter in high school and now competing at the Division I level, she’s built her game around hard work, leadership, and a love for teaching the details. At Duncan Hoops, Emma brings that same energy and passion to training sessions. She specializes in helping players build confidence in their shooting, develop strong fundamentals, and understand the game at a deeper level. Whether she’s on the court competing for the Catamounts or working with the next generation, Emma is committed to helping players grow and enjoy the game.

Gus Yalden is a 6'9" forward for Vermont Catamounts and one of the most skilled young frontcourt players in the America East. Originally from Appleton, Wisconsin, Gus was a highly regarded four-star recruit coming out of high school and has played at the high major level before transferring to Vermont. In his first season with the Catamounts, he quickly emerged as one of the league’s top forwards, leading Vermont in scoring and rebounding while earning America East Newcomer of the Year honors. Known for his energy, footwork, and ability to stretch the floor, Gus brings high level college experience and a strong understanding of the game to Duncan Hoops.

Kelli Cieplicki is a 5'9" guard who just completed her freshman season at Saint Michael's College, where she continues to grow her game at the collegiate level. A 2024 graduate of Rice Memorial High School, Kelli was a standout in Vermont’s high school basketball scene, known for her scoring ability, court awareness, and leadership. Coming from a family with deep basketball roots, Kelli helped lead Rice to consistent success and earned Metro Division First Team honors. At Duncan Hoops, she now gives back to the next generation—mentoring young players and focusing on skill development, basketball IQ, and building confidence on and off the court.

Catherine is a current guard for the University of Vermont women’s basketball team and one of the top players in the America East Conference. A former Gatorade Player of the Year and “Miss Basketball” in Vermont, she starred at Champlain Valley Union High School, going 30–0 over her final two seasons. At UVM, Catherine has been a consistent leader on and off the court—starting every game in the 2024–25 season and leading the conference in assists per game and assist-to-turnover ratio. Despite missing the 2023–24 season with an ACL injury, she returned to help guide the Catamounts to a 21–13 record. Her sophomore year, she made 74 three-pointers, just one shy of the school’s single-season record. Catherine is passionate about giving back to her community. She coaches and trains players through Duncan Hoops, mentors young athletes, and remains committed to helping the next generation grow through the game of basketball.

Dustin works behind the scenes as the web manager and graphic designer. He brings over a decade of experience in public relations, social media, and graphic design. Dustin began his career volunteering in the athletic communications office at Dartmouth before moving onto the University of Maine at Farmington as the Director of Athletic Communications and Academic Compliance Officer. While at UMF, he was in charge of keeping stats, writing press releases, and generating social content for 20 varsity sports while complying with academic eligibility regulations. After UMF, he joined the Vermont Catamounts as the Assistant Director of Media Relations/Sports Information and primary media contact for the men’s basketball team. He is also the Director of Digital Media and Content Strategy for Nucar’s Family of Dealershps.

Ryan joined Duncan Hoops as a photographer, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous role as the Director of Athletic Communications for UVM Athletics. There, he served as the primary contact for the UVM men's basketball team, creating dynamic social media content, producing videos, and capturing game-day photos that resonated with fans. Ryan's coverage included four trips to March Madness, during which he helped make UVM’s men’s basketball pages among the most engaging Division I basketball accounts. His passion for storytelling through visuals continues to shine in his work with Duncan Hoops. Outside of Duncan Hoops, he is a Multimedia Specialist for Nucar’s Family of Dealerships and a freelance photographer.