The Oxbridge Academy Thunderwolves football program has turned to new leadership as head coach Mike Colee takes the reins. Though only a few weeks into his role, Colee has already begun reshaping the team's roster. He acknowledged that when he arrived, the program faced lower enrollment numbers since families had already made summer plans before his involvement. However, the situation has shifted since he engaged with parents and students and released the schedule. "Once I got in there, once I got to meet with the parents, meet with the kids, get the schedule out there, we've been growing our numbers ever since," Colee said.
The new coach's approach is already resonating with players as the season approaches. Senior Cayden Pribramski highlighted Colee's emphasis on mental toughness and his ability to maximize each player's individual strengths. Rather than imposing a rigid system, Colee tailors his coaching to suit his athletes. "He's not the kind of guy to go out there and say, 'my way or the highway.' He's going to really build the stuff around you and help you to succeed," Pribramski explained. The senior believes this flexible approach will be key to the team's immediate success and long-term development as a program.
The Thunderwolves are determined to move forward after a challenging 0-11 campaign last season. Senior Brady Basis expressed the team's commitment to maintaining momentum as they prepare for the upcoming season. "We just want to keep working, keep going," Basis said. He pointed to a successful spring win as evidence that the team can build on positive performances. The goal is to carry that energy and winning mentality into the regular season.
Colee's appointment represents a significant turning point for Oxbridge Academy football. With improving roster numbers and players responding positively to his coaching philosophy, the program appears poised for change. The combination of increased participation and a coach who understands how to develop individual talent suggests the Thunderwolves are ready to compete under this new direction. As the team prepares to take the field, they're looking to prove themselves and leave last year's struggles behind.