Jocelyn Aalborg and Karrie Meyers – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … The Mile High Academy (MHA) Middle School girls’ basketball team clinched the championship trophy at the 5280 League Championship at the Denver Waldorf School in Denver, Colorado, beating Denver Jewish Day Academy 30 to 22, December 11.
“Congratulations to a very talented group of young ladies,” said volunteer coach Julie Collett. “They made coaching easy and fun for me. They put their heart and souls into the game and showed amazing sportsmanship towards the opposing teams with true Mustang spirit.”
The success of MHA’s Mustang athletic program is a testament to its focus on holistic student-athlete development, with a steadfast commitment to placing Christ at the forefront of competition. This achievement is credited in no small part to a dedicated group of volunteer coaches, like Julie Collett, who not only contribute their time but also bring a passion for Christ-centered athletics.
Collett’s love of basketball takes her back to her basketball days when she started coaching to spend time with her daughters, Jocelyn Aalborg (class of 2005) and Alexis Ordelheide (class of 2008). And her passion to see MHA continue to succeed runs deep as her two grandchildren, Charlee and Jack, now attend MHA.
Back then, 24 years ago, MHA also won the league championship, so this year’s win fills Collett with nostalgia.
“Basketball holds a special place in my heart,” Collett shared. “And now it is such an honor to coach and watch these second-generation athletes representing MHA. I can’t wait to see where they all are in 24 years.”
When the opportunity arose to coach the 2023 Middle School girls’ A basketball team, Collett didn’t hesitate to volunteer. She knew it would be hard work but also bring a sense of satisfaction as she was helping fill a much-needed void in the volunteer coaching staff.
In addition to coaching, she assumed the role of mentor to the group of young ladies, not only coaching them about the game but also guiding them through valuable life lessons. She said, “When I was asked if I would consider coaching this year, I was hesitant to say yes. But I knew that I really didn’t have a good reason to say no, and I could give back while doing something I love.”
As of now, Collett has retired her basketball shoes and stored away her whistle. When asked about the prospect of coaching again next year, she responded with a smile, saying, “Only time will tell.”
—Jocelyn Aalborg is the vice president of finance and development, and Karrie Meyers is the marketing and development coordinator at Mile High Academy. Photos supplied.
