In a world where mentorship shapes futures, two dedicated coaches at Wakeland are not just teaching the game, they’re building a legacy. Coach Thompson, a proud alumni who once played on these very fields, has returned to inspire the next generation of athletes meanwhile coach Oglesbee has been a Cornerstone of the school since its opening.
The impact of their guidance manifests in the transformation of students throughout their high school journey, including Coach Thompson’s own evolution.
“That’s one of the reasons why I got into the profession,” said Oglesbee. “To be able to see that change and the unique thing about what I do is I get an opportunity to interact with a lot of students.”
“I’ve seen the transition from a student that maybe was a little behind as a freshman that they’ve arrived as a senior,” said Oglesbee. “That to me that’s the most rewarding part of what I do.”
Over his 18-year tenure, Coach Oglesbee has witnessed his own professional growth parallel the school’s development.
“I mean I grew up at this place so you know, ‘started at the bottom now we’re here’,” said Coach, borrowing a Drake quote from a football practice’s playlist.
“I started a family. I’ve had children and just I mean it’s been a tremendous blessing in my life being able to work here as a coach.”
For Coach Thompson, the decision to launch his career in the same hallways where he spent four years as a student started with his passion.
“It was a combination of wanting to be around sports, my love for baseball but also some experiences I had with coaching uh some side things I did where I got to work with younger kids.”
Coach Thompson also notes how being back at Wakeland provides a new perspective.
“You kind of get a feeling for you know how teachers like the things that they go through like as a student you question some of the things teachers may do,” said Thompson. “But then you actually come back here and you are part of that whole foundation of that whole system and you realize like ‘okay, that makes sense’.”
Both coaches recall characteristics of the other over the years.
“Coach Oglesbee? Dude the exact same! [A] dude all full of energy just a good guy. Good coach. Cares about the kids and he’ll hype you up for sure,” said Thompson of Oglesbee.
“Now, Coach Thompson was a great student. Tremendous, tremendous person,” said Oglesbee. Great player and that pretty much is what defines him as a coach today.”
Through their dedication and passion, these coaches embody the core values that define Wakeland’s spirit.
