In the heart of Texoma, a basketball program is making waves, not just for its skillful play but for the life lessons it imparts. Willie Johnson, the founder of Sparks and Lady Sparks Basketball, is the driving force behind this initiative, showing what dedication, community spirit, and a love for the game can achieve.
Willie Johnson's journey into coaching began with his two daughters, who have been playing basketball under his guidance since they were old enough to join a team. This personal commitment soon blossomed into a community-wide endeavor, as more parents sought opportunities for their kids with Willie’s coaching. Johnson, a lifelong basketball enthusiast who played through college and continues to play in men’s leagues, uses his experience to enrich the lives of young athletes.
Sparks Basketball is more than just a sports program. It’s an opportunity for year-round commitment that starts with kindergarteners and goes all the way to high school students. With hundreds of kids participating annually, Johnson's winter program focuses on younger kids, while the summer sees him leading older students in travel ball, exposing them to varied levels of competition across the North Texas and Oklahoma regions.
The philosophy driving Sparks Basketball is clear: "Always Earned, Never Given." Johnson is not just coaching basketball; he’s teaching life skills like discipline, perseverance, leadership, and teamwork. He is known as a strong coach who is willing to put his teams in tough games to ensure nothing comes easy and every win is earned through working harder, running faster, and shooting better than the opponent. But what is his ultimate goal? To see these kids grow, not only in their game but as individuals, potentially earning college scholarships through basketball just like he did.
Johnson’s dedication is unwavering. With a son just starting his journey in the sport, he has many years of coaching ahead of him. In the last decade, approximately 300 to 400 kids from across the Texoma region, including Pottsboro, Denison, Sherman, Bells, and beyond, have been part of Sparks. This is a testament to the inclusive nature of the program, welcoming anyone with a passion for the game.
For Johnson, Sparks Basketball is a daily commitment. He spends around 20-25 hours each week coaching, not including the additional time spent traveling for games. This devotion is a family affair, with his own children often training alongside him, while his wife supports the endeavor behind the scenes.
Sparks Basketball isn’t just a program; it’s a community asset, shaping the lives of young people through the game of basketball. For those interested in joining or learning more, information is readily available on the Sparks Basketball website (sparksbasketball.net) and their Facebook page. Registration for summer leagues begins early, with tryouts typically starting by the end of February.
As Sparks continues to grow and nurture young talent, Willie Johnson remains at its heart, a beacon of dedication and love for the game, community, and the growth of every child who steps onto the court.
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For more information and to get involved, visit SparksBasketball.net