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July 25, 2009

By JEREMY SHORT The Tahlequah Daily Press Sat Jul 25, 2009, 08:39 PM CDT

TAHLEQUAH DAILY PRESS — Leon Ashlock was named new girls’ basketball coach at Keys High School earlier this week. The Lady Cougars finished 11-13 last season under Lisa Burton.

“I think he will bring in some good experience and good knowledge,” said Keys Principal and Athletic Director Calvin Klugh. “He has a very good work ethic.”

Ashlock was at Okmulgee High School last year, but did not coach.

Prior to that, he was the head coach at Schulter High School where he led the Bulldogs to the state tournament.

He also went to the state tournament as an assistant coach at Prague High School in 2006.

It was at Prague, under Jeff Depanion, where Ashlock learned a great deal about coaching.

“He’s won over 500 ballgames and he’s been to the state tournament many times,” said Ashlock. “I learned a lot from him.”

Ashlock attended college at Northeastern State and graduated in 2002. He and his wife enjoyed the area, which made the Keys opening even more appealing.

“My wife and I went to NSU,” said Ashlock. “We always talked about coming back so when the job came open, I jumped at the opportunity.”

When the Lady Cougars take the floor this season, Ashlock is not sure what kind of tempo they will play, but one thing is for sure. Defense will be team’s primary focus.

“I preach defense first,” said Ashlock. “If we can play uptempo we will. I believe in controlling ballgames whether that’s fast or slow.”

Keys returns several impact players from last year’s team including Megan Alsenay and Micah Henry.

“Coach Burton did a good job and left a good foundation,” said Ashlock. “I real excited. I’m looking forward to getting to know all the girls.”