Nothing But Net!

The Christ School welcomes Durell Sykes to our faculty, serving as PE teacher and Boys’ Basketball Coach. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Durell moved to Florida at age 7 with his mother and brother. “It was a culture shock in the beginning because of the heat all year-round, but we loved it,” he says.

A love of sports came early to Durell.“The first sport I was introduced to was baseball, but when my mother bought us a basketball hoop, basketball quickly became my favorite sport,” he says. Durell played basketball in high school, and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management at Warner University and played on their basketball team. He then played professional basketball on the Panama National Pre-selection team and in a Costa Rican League. Even though he played professionally, his describes his favorite moment as a player, “It was when I made the game-winning 3 pointer at the buzzer to win the game at Poinciana High School,” he smiles.

After playing professionally, Durell served as a basketball coach and taught physical education for three years in Orange County Public Schools. He says, “I enjoy coaching kids in many different sports and seeing them reach their full potential.”

Durell is excited about the opportunity to teach at TCS. “I went to a private Christian university and I really enjoyed my time there,” he says. “I feel that being there made me become a better person. I wanted to get back to that type of atmosphere and I believe The Christ School is the spot for me!”

Durell shares his favorite Bible verse:Tell everyone who is discouraged, be strong and don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue.
Isaiah 35:4