Listening to her talk, you might find it hard to believe that Josilynn Wyrick from Wyandotte is just a sophomore but her resume of work belies her youth.
“Josilynn is one of our main scorers, is very coachable, very versatile and in school is involved in lots of outside activities,” according to her new coach, Denisha Posey.
At a time when many sophomores are just stating to find their way around the school, Josilynn is already involved in FCA, student council, National Honor Society, and a Wyandotte group called SMAC (Students Making A Change) that works on outside activities. Josilynn also works a lot with little kids who love to watch her play.
“My mom is first grade teacher and does PE so I’m around little kids a lot,” said Josilynn, who also plays softball for the Lady Bears. “I come from a big family with two younger siblings and 12 cousins and I’m one of the oldest so I’ve always loved being around kids.”
At five-foot, nine inches, Josilynn has played in the middle most of her years in basketball, but this year will take on a new position with a new coach.
“Things are a lot different with coach Posey and this year I’m going to play outside more so I’m working on my outside shooting a lot more. I want to be able to hit the jumper or the three but still work inside where I can use my post moves as well.”
Wyrick says she has had a couple of family members that have meant a lot to her maturity and success.
“My mom coached me in basketball and softball, and my grandpa has been the main male presence in my life. I lost a couple of close relatives in recent years and he really stepped in and helped me during those losses. He’s at all of my games and sits right at court side to root me on and encourage or critique me,” she chuckled.
“He tells me that my attitude and effort are the only things I can control, and I use that to guide me on and off the court.”
Doing well in athletics and having good character go hand-in-hand according to Wyrick.
“Having good character on the court gains you respect from both your teammates and your opponents which is really important.”
