The Oxford High School boy’s basketball team is back in Jackson again for the 5A state tournament, and that makes a good moment to share appreciation for head coach Drew Tyler.

In his 20th season of coaching Oxford High, Tyler is a winner both on the court and off. He’s been a teacher in Oxford schools since the early 1990s and students will tell you that he is a mentor and man of integrity as a teacher and coach.

On the court, there’s no denying Tyler’s record: 486 wins against 164 losses and a state championship in 2001. Under his leadership the Chargers have advanced to Jackson nine times and participated in the state tournament 19 straight seasons.

Let’s also mention that as a player at Oxford in 1987 he won a state championship playing for coach John Sherman, now at Lafayette.

Like any good coach, Tyler has undoubtedly had opportunities to coach elsewhere over the years, but he and his family have a love and deep connection to Oxford and he has made the commitment to contribute here.

He’s been known to look after players and students more like a father than a coach and we’re glad that he’s such a strong leader for Oxford High School’s family.