In this episode of The ROK Podcast, we spotlight the remarkable journey of John Fitzgerald, a 3X All-American and UCO Hall of Famer. Starting his football career at Oklahoma State University, John's path took an unexpected twist when he left OSU under mysterious circumstances that neither he nor his coaches fully understood. What could have been a career-ending setback instead became a turning point.

John found new life at the University of Central Oklahoma, where his talent truly shined. At UCO, he worked tirelessly to transform himself into one of the program’s all-time greats, earning multiple All-American honors and a place in the UCO Hall of Fame. His story is about more than just football—it’s a testament to resilience, perseverance, and embracing second chances.

In this episode, John reflects on the emotional journey of leaving OSU, his rise to success at UCO, and the lessons he learned about overcoming challenges. Tune in for an inside look at how John’s unexpected journey led him to greatness.

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On The ROK Podcast, Sean Love sits down with Trace Ford, a standout athlete who was one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2019 football class. Growing up in Oklahoma City and attending Edmond Santa Fe High School, Ford quickly made a name for himself as a dynamic and versatile player, attracting attention from top college programs across the nation.

Ford’s talent and hard work led to offers from prestigious schools like Oklahoma State University (OSU), Texas, Oregon, Memphis, Florida State, and Auburn. His high school career was marked by outstanding performances that showcased his potential to excel at the next level, making him one of the most coveted recruits in the country.

In this episode, Ford opens up about his experiences growing up in Oklahoma, the influence of his high school coaches, and the journey that took him from Edmond Santa Fe to the national spotlight. He also discusses the pivotal decision to commit to OSU, where he began his college career as a Cowboy, and the factors that eventually led him to make the bold transition to the University of Oklahoma (OU).

Ford’s move from OSU to OU was a significant and challenging decision, one that came with its own set of pressures and expectations. In the podcast, he shares the thought process behind this transition, the reactions from fans and teammates, and how he adapted to the new environment at OU.

Join Sean Love on The ROK Podcast as he dives deep into Trace Ford’s journey, from his early days in Oklahoma City to his rise as a top recruit, and his courageous decision to switch schools and continue his football career as a Sooner.

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On this episode of The ROK Podcast, we're diving into the incredible journey of Aaliyah Moore, one of the most prolific basketball players to ever come out of Oklahoma. Aaliyah has racked up accolades that most players can only dream of—she's a 2X Gatorade Player of the Year, a McDonald's All-American, Jordan Brand Classic All-American, and a Naismith All-American. And let's not forget her involvement with USA Basketball, where she's earned gold medals and represented our country on the international stage.

Aaliyah's story begins in Moore, Oklahoma, where she was raised in a family that understood the game and the recruiting process like few others. Her mother played at Alabama State University and was instrumental in guiding Aaliyah through the often complex world of college recruiting. That strong foundation, both on and off the court, has played a significant role in shaping Aaliyah into the dominant player and leader she is today.

In just three years, Aaliyah not only excelled on the court but also in the classroom, graduating with her bachelor's degree and now on track to complete her master's. Her focus and dedication are evident in everything she does, whether it's leading her team at the University of Texas or preparing for a future in the WNBA. But Aaliyah's ambitions don't stop there—she's also setting her sights on a career in sports broadcasting, inspired by the trailblazing women journalists currently making waves in the industry.

Aaliyah Moore is not just a basketball player; she's a force to be reckoned with and a role model for young athletes everywhere. Her journey is far from over, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for her.

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On the upcoming episode of The ROK Podcast, we'll be joined by the legendary coach Andy Bogert, whose impact on Oklahoma high school sports is nothing short of extraordinary. Andy's journey began at his alma mater, John Marshall, where he started his coaching career alongside his then-freshman coach, Clyde Ellis. Together, they built a powerhouse, leading John Marshall to state championships that left a lasting legacy.

But Andy's success didn't stop there. He continued to make his mark at Heritage Hall, where he not only added more state championships to his resume with the football team but also led the Heritage Hall golf teams to an impressive nine state titles. His dedication and leadership have been pivotal, as he's been involved in 23 state championship games as both a head coach and assistant, winning an astounding 18 gold balls.

What's even more remarkable is that Andy achieved all of this while running a successful oil and gas business, a legacy passed down from his father. The balance between his business and coaching careers is a testament to his work ethic and passion for both fields.

Adding to his legacy, Andy has had the unique opportunity to coach alongside his son at Heritage Hall, sharing in the success and continuing the tradition of excellence. His story is one of dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of greatness, and we're thrilled to have him share it with us on The ROK Podcast. Don't miss this episode—it's going to be a special one!

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On the latest episode of The ROK Podcast with Coach Love, we had the honor of sitting down with Millwood Legend, Nicholas Graham. Growing up on the Northside of Oklahoma City, Nicholas attended Millwood Public Schools, where he became a standout athlete despite his smaller stature. His speed and agility were unmatched, leading the Millwood Falcons to three state championships and cementing their status as a traditional powerhouse in high school football.

After his remarkable high school career, Nicholas took his talents to Tulsa University. There, he continued to excel on the field, further developing his skills and proving himself as a top-tier player. His collegiate success at Tulsa paved the way for his entry into the NFL.

Nicholas shared stories of playing alongside other living legends at Millwood and how those experiences shaped his athletic career. His exceptional performance at Tulsa caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his signing with the Philadelphia Eagles as a priority free agent. He recounted his time in the NFL, including his stint with the Indianapolis Colts, and the lessons he learned from playing at the highest level.

After his time in the NFL, Nicholas ventured to Canada, where he played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Hamilton Tiger-Cats. These experiences broadened his perspective on the game and allowed him to continue his football journey in a different environment.

The conversation also delved into Nicholas's coaching journey. He spoke about how his reputation as a great person and a dedicated player played a significant role in his transition to coaching. Many of his opportunities came through recommendations from those who knew him well, underscoring the importance of character and relationships in the sports world.

Nicholas's story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of a strong community. His journey from the Northside of OKC to Tulsa University, the NFL, and beyond is truly inspiring, and his contributions to the game continue to impact young athletes today.

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In a compelling episode of The ROK Podcast, I had the opportunity to sit down with Oklahoma State softball star Tallen Edwards. Tallen’s journey is a testament to her extraordinary talent, resilience, and determination.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Tallen’s story is her decision to skip her senior year of high school to play for Oklahoma State University. This bold move has already paid off, as she has participated in two Women's College World Series with OSU. Her ability to transition smoothly from high school to college-level competition speaks volumes about her skills and mental toughness.

Tallen’s path has not been without its challenges. She shared the heartbreaking story of losing her father to COVID-19 right after winning her second state title. This devastating loss deeply impacted her, but it also fueled her determination to succeed and honor her father's memory through her performance on the field.

During her prep career, Tallen played for Southmoore High School, where she faced fierce competition from their rivals at Moore High School and Choctaw High School. These intense matchups helped shape her competitive spirit and prepared her for the challenges of collegiate softball.

Tallen’s talent was evident from a young age. Ranked as one of the top players in the country, she received her first college offer in the 7th grade after impressing coaches at high school camps. Her early recognition and subsequent success are a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport.

Athletic prowess runs in Tallen's family. Both her parents and her two siblings all played sports at the next level, creating an environment that nurtured her love for competition and excellence. This supportive and sports-oriented background played a significant role in shaping her into the exceptional athlete she is today.

Throughout the interview, Tallen spoke about her experiences, her motivations, and the support she received from her family and teammates. Her story is not just about athletic success but also about overcoming adversity and striving for excellence in all aspects of life.

It was a privilege to have Tallen Edwards on The ROK Podcast and to share her inspiring journey with our listeners. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience required to achieve greatness in the face of personal and professional challenges.

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On the latest episode of *The ROK Podcast with Coach Love*, we had the honor of sitting down with Oklahoma's legendary basketball coach, Patrick Cudjoe. Celebrating a monumental achievement, Coach Cudjoe recently became the 13th coach in history to amass over 500 wins. This milestone is a testament to his enduring dedication, strategic acumen, and ability to inspire his players both on and off the court.

Throughout our conversation, Coach Cudjoe shared insights into the myriad successes he's experienced over his illustrious career. From leading his teams to numerous championship titles to fostering a culture of excellence and resilience, his journey is one marked by extraordinary accomplishments. However, he was candid about the struggles that come with coaching. Balancing the pressures of winning with the need to develop young athletes' character and skills, navigating the challenges of recruitment, and adapting to the ever-evolving dynamics of the sport were just a few hurdles he highlighted.

One of the most profound lessons Coach Cudjoe imparted was the importance of perseverance and adaptability. He emphasized that the true measure of success isn't just in the victories but in the growth and development of his players. Over the years, he's learned that fostering a supportive and motivating environment can lead to profound personal and professional growth for both the athletes and the coach.

A significant part of Coach Cudjoe's legacy is his role as a mentor to countless athletes in Oklahoma. He spoke humbly about the privilege of guiding young men and women, many of whom have gone on to achieve great things in their own right. His influence extends beyond the basketball court, as he instills values of discipline, teamwork, and integrity in his players. Coach Cudjoe's commitment to mentorship has left an indelible mark on the lives of those he's coached, shaping not just exceptional athletes but exceptional individuals.

Listening to Coach Patrick Cudjoe's journey on *The ROK Podcast with Coach Love* is a reminder of the profound impact a dedicated coach can have on the sport and the lives of young athletes. His story is one of triumph, resilience, and the enduring power of mentorship.

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In a recent episode of The ROK Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Janiyah Williams, the highly sought-after point guard from Edmond Memorial, class of 2025, who is committed to the University of Oregon. Janiyah’s story is one of remarkable talent, dedication, and resilience.

Janiyah comes from a large family with 11 siblings, all of whom played sports. She shared how growing up in such a competitive environment helped her develop the toughness and determination that set her apart on the court. Despite the fierce competition within her own family, Janiyah emerged as the toughest of them all, honing her skills and pushing herself to be the best.

Not only is Janiyah an exceptional athlete, but she is also a stellar student. Her commitment to her academics is just as strong as her dedication to basketball. Balancing the demands of being a top-tier athlete with her schoolwork, Janiyah has demonstrated that she has the discipline and passion to excel in all areas of her life.

Ranked as one of the top basketball players in the country, Janiyah's journey is just beginning. Her commitment to the University of Oregon marks a significant milestone in her career, and her future in basketball looks incredibly bright. Throughout the interview, Janiyah’s passion for the game and her drive to be the best were evident. She spoke about her goals, her inspirations, and the hard work she puts in every day to achieve her dreams.

Janiyah Williams is a name to watch in the world of basketball, and her story is an inspiration to young athletes everywhere. It was an honor to have her on The ROK Podcast and to share her journey with our listeners.

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