Osbourn Park Senior High School is looking forward to something that is tough for many schools to start of the school year with — a roster full of returning players. At the end of the 2013-2014 season, the Girls Varsity Basketball team, led by Head Coach Clifton Gorham, only lost one senior. That means this coming year, he can worry less about re-teaching and more time honing in on the development of his current players.
Gorham feels that with the talent and focus of his returning core, the Lady Yellow Jackets will be destined for success.
Osbourn Park has several key matchups to prepare for on the 2014-2015 game schedule. Having played Battlefied High School in Haymarket twice during last year’s regular season and losing both games, the Yellow Jackets have their road cut out for them.
“Battlefield mirrors my team when it comes to youth and development,” says Gorham, “but we edged them out last year in the playoffs and they [Battlefield] will be looking to face us again.”
Stonewall Jackson High School, Cardinal District, ranks high in conference competition for Osbourn Park too. Gorham recognizes that they don’t just need to be prepared for Battlefield, but also for the Raiders. “Stonewall carries a swagger about them and a winning attitude,” said Gorham.
In the off-season, Gorham and his team have been working diligently to improve the program; starting first with their presence in the gym through skills training and conditioning. “I’ve been fortunate to have kids who want to work and want to develop,” adds Gorham, “and our plan is to pick up right where we left off.”
Returning to the team is Senior Megan Onyundo, small forward, who has played in a starting role since her freshman year at Osbourn Park. Additionally, juniors Ashley White and Cheree Davis will play alongside shooting guard Kylee Johnson; all three playing interchangeable roles as Point and Shooting Guards for the Lady Yellow Jackets this season.
“All of my team is essential, but between Cheree, Kylee and Ashlee, who came in together, paired with the senior leadership of Megan, this will make us a dynamic core,” states Gorham.
Gorham has infused the basketball coaching talents of Ivan Colbert, John King and recent acquisition Chrissy Kelly who all will assist the team with their extensive knowledge of skills, plays and concepts.
While a good team dynamic and committed staff are keys to success, Coach Gorham realizes that the competitive edge comes from him as a head coach and his willingness to stay focused on what is important.
“I’ve told my girls that I want to be the best coach you have ever played for,” said Gorham.
With eight years of coaching experience at Osbourn Park under his belt, Gorham knows that winning sells tickets, but focus and toughness wins championships.
“A good friend of mine told me that when I take my eyes off trying to win the state championship and keep them focused on the twelve and thirteen girls who will play on my team, that the championship is most likely to be obtainable and a product of that focus rather than me just striving for a championship,” Gorham says.
