The tiny high school with approximately 125 students, situated in the mountains in the southwest corner of the state of Virginia, is one of the premier basketball programs in the country. The powerhouse basketball team run by Coach Smith is the pride of the Mouth of Wilson area and the boarding school's faculty and supporters, although, instilling discipline and commitment to the students and basketball players at the school extend way beyond the lines of the basketball court. It's the emphasis of the daily routine.
As we began the National Ranking Trophy ceremony at 7:50AM in the School Chapel, there was not one single student late for the daily assembly. A devotional from the Bible was discussed, faculty brought attention the days schedule including academic, arts, and sports-related topics, and the students were instructed on important upcoming subject matters. After all business was handled, it was time for MaxPreps & the Army National Guard's to honor the Oak Hill Academy basketball team for its incredible 40-1 season.
Head Basketball Coach Steve Smith introduced our team, Charlie Thompson, from MaxPreps, & Master Sergeant Ferris of the Army National Guard. Charlie spoke about MaxPreps, its dedication to high school sports and the reason for the trophy presentation - Oak Hill Academy was selected as one of 25 schools from over 17,000 teams to be honored. Master Sergeant Ferris talked about teamwork, commitment, and excellence yet also explained what a privilege it was for him along with the two officers to represent the Army National Guard and to be part of the presentation to the reputable basketball program whose history runs very long. MSG Ferris then called up star player and team leader, Nolan Smith, and presented to him the prestigious National Ranking Trophy- a symbol of determination, excellence and perseverance.
After the loud, prideful applause, the students filed out one by one to class (while being handed a small item from the Guard) to start their daily regimen. The basketball team stayed behind a few minutes so team photos could be taken by local media and MaxPreps to cap off the tremendous 40-1 season. Basketball honors and awards are also part of the daily routine at Oak Hill Academy - a true high school basketball dynasty.