While most students are enjoying the slower pace of summer, the Cordell Lady Blue Devils basketball program has been putting in serious work in preparation for the upcoming school year and season.
Under the direction of Head Coach Colby Love, the junior high and high school girls have stayed active with a packed summer schedule. The team tipped things off at the Blanchard Team Camp on June 2–4, hosted their own Cordell High School Team Camp on June 12, and is now participating in the Arapaho-Butler Team Camp from June 16–18. To wrap up their summer slate, the high school squad will head to the Oklahoma State University Team Camp June 26–27.
Cordell’s home team camp drew 13 teams from Class B to 6A. The one-day event showcased top-tier talent, including Class 2A state champions Oklahoma Bible Academy and Class B runner-up Chattanooga.
“We were proud to host our own team camp again this year. Hosting events like this is something I truly enjoy,” Love said. “It’s a great opportunity for our girls to play at home in front of their families, and it brings our community together.”
Love complimented Cordell’s facilities and expressed his desire to continue growing the camp in future years. “I believe we have really great facilities, and I want to make sure we’re putting them to good use. Looking ahead, I’m planning to add a junior high day to next year’s camp lineup,” he said.
With a youthful roster, the Lady Blue Devils are embracing the chance to gain valuable experience this summer. The high school team includes just two seniors, three juniors, two sophomores, and nine freshmen.
“Our focus this summer is simple: play as much basketball as possible,” Love said. “Right now, they’re learning how to play together and grow as a team. I really like this group. They’re working hard and doing their best to figure things out, and that’s what summer is all about.”
Love also credited the families and support system that helped make it all possible. “Our attendance has been outstanding, and that’s a huge credit to our families. We’re fortunate to have an outstanding group of parents who are incredibly supportive, getting their daughters to workouts and camps all over the place.”
Joining the staff this summer is Coach Kendi Spradlin, who brings experience as both a head coach and an assistant coach, along with a strong academic background as a certified math teacher. Love says she’s already making an impact.
“She’s been learning our system, our plays, terminology, and team culture, and she’s fitting in very well,” he said. “The girls already really like her, which is a big win.”
As the summer heats up, so does the Lady Blue Devils. “We’re building something special,” said Love, “and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”