Winning is the name of the … How Basketball Coach Burks views his role with PHCA

At Plaza Heights Christian Academy, we strive for an atmosphere of fun, hard work, and FAMILY! My name is Rodney Burks, and this is my first year as the Head Coach for the boys’ varsity basketball team. The main purpose of our program is to be a shining light for Christ in our school, community, and homes!

I want our student athletes to know that our goal is to win every game. That may sound hard, but to win a game doesn’t necessarily reflect on the scoreboard. There are many different aspects to the “winning” I expect of them. First, I expect them to give their all 100% of the time, on and off the court. Second, I have high expectations of our athletes to act with integrity. That means that who they say they are, and how they act are the same. Respecting one another as they would their own family. Lastly, and the most meaningful form of “winning” is the development of their relationship with Christ. There should be no reason someone would have to ask if they love Jesus if they are “winning” in this aspect of their lives.

We had a great season! We all learned a lot about playing the sport of basketball and about what it means to be teammates and followers of Christ. We have 4 seniors on the varsity team this year, with two of those being international students from China. Seniors in our “FAMILY” are Caleb Hertzog, Felix Liu, Will Smith, and Alex Zhu. We have the potential to continue these strong “FAMILY” values in the coming years as the underclassmen are showing great potential. I love coaching and I love the kids at PHCA! It’s a great time to be a “LION”!!

Coach Burks