GAMES
RANKINGS
WORTH THE CHALLENGE: Taylor’s Orogun Ready to Contribute to Alief ISD in More Ways Than One
GOLF IS OFTEN CONSIDERED A ‘LIFELONG’ SPORT, BUT IT’S ALSO ONE OF THE HARDEST TO MASTER. FOR ALIEF TAYLOR’S OYINDAMOLA OROGUN, HOWEVER, IT QUICKLY CAPTURED HER INTEREST.
“I joined the team last year with my older brother, Funsho, to see what it was all about,” Orogun explained. “I’m not very athletic, and most of the other sports were already full, so I was glad to find something that didn’t require too much physicality. I just wish more people would appreciate it like I did.”
While Orogun grew fond of the game, she soon realized that it’s not for everyone.
“It’s definitely harder than it looks,” she said with a laugh. “Watching people play, whether in person or on TV, makes it seem easy. But actually doing it is a whole different experience. I went into it thinking I wouldn’t face too much physical strain, but I still get back pain from all the swinging. Still, I think that the challenge is worth it.”
Before joining Alief ISD, Orogun was part of the Fort Bend ISD district. After attending Albright Middle School, she ascended to Alief Taylor High and quickly felt at home.
“Of all the schools I’ve been to, I love Alief Taylor the most,” Orogun shared. “Maybe it’s because it’s high school, but there are so many more opportunities to get involved, and you meet a lot of different people. Luckily for me, I’m involved in several other clubs, so I’ve had the chance to experience everything this school has to offer.”
Among the clubs Orogun participates in are Alief Taylor’s NJROTC (Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) and TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educators). Orogun plans to continue her journey at the University of Houston, where she hopes to pursue a career in education.
“I want to become an educator,” she said. “I may play golf for fun, but my goal is to one day teach in an elementary school for Alief ISD. It’ll be a full-circle moment for me when I see that dream come true.”
Who needs ‘physicality’ when you have the determination to succeed?
HITTING HER STRIDE: Taylor’s Lee Pursuing a Higher Level of Success
ALIEF TAYLOR JUNIOR MCKALE LEE IS COMING OFF AN IMPRESSIVE TRACK SEASON, CLAIMING A SILVER MEDAL IN THE 800M AT THE DISTRICT MEET, PLACING FOURTH AT AREA, AND ADVANCING TO REGIONALS.
Yet, she isn’t resting on her accomplishments — Lee has big plans for the upcoming season.
“The only mindset is to win, and the expectation is to finally make it to State,” Lee said. “This was my first year competing in Indoor track during the winter, so I’ve been preparing to hopefully surpass my limits in the near future.”
Lee’s commitment to improvement is evident. Her ambition is not only to excel on the track but also to continue developing her skills and pushing beyond her previous performances.
Her journey into track and field began in her younger years when sports were a family affair.
“When I was younger, I was always the one that tried several different sports,” Lee shared. “My brothers were in football and basketball, but I played soccer, softball, basketball, and a few others. I got into track because I was always the fastest. I would race in the street against kids and really thrived off the competition, so that’s what brings me here.”
Outside of track, Lee has proven herself a versatile athlete, excelling in both ice skating and roller skating. Her athleticism extends beyond the track, adding another layer to her abilities and reflecting her well-rounded approach to sports.
But track is where she truly shines, particularly in the 800m, often considered one of the most challenging events in high school track and field in Texas.
Lee’s aspirations stretch beyond her high school career as well.
“Hopefully, I can earn myself a free ride to college,” she said. “That’s been the primary goal I’ve set for some time, and it would be incredible to achieve that. I’m not sure where I’d want to go just yet if I had the opportunity, but I’ll get back to you on that.”
Her dreams of competing at the collegiate level are rooted in her
upbringing.
“The thing I like most about my experience is the fact that I’ve been in Alief schools all my life, from Kindergarten up until now,” Lee explained. “Every time I’m here, every time I compete, and every time I do my best, it’s almost like I’m hugging the younger version of myself.”
With her competitive spirit and unwavering focus, Lee is certainly a force to watch this spring. Her journey in the 800m is just beginning, and with her determination, it’s clear that she has the potential to go far. Stay tuned to see just how far McKale Lee can go.