WEST PALM BEACH – Jim Basford’s first season as the Forest Hill head coach started off with a challenge.

His Falcons began with a 0-2 record, which includes losses to Palm Beach Central and Seminole Ridge. But after the Ridge defeat, Basford’s team started to hit their stride.

Thanks in part to his leadership, Basford has guided Forest Hill to a four-game winning streak and a 4-2 overall record. He led the team to an exhilarating 16-10 comeback win over previously unbeaten Park Vista this past Thursday night (Oct. 14).

This effort was enough for Basford to be chosen as our Coach of the Week 8.

“[Coach Basford has] just continued with what he’s been doing since the season started,” Forest Hill senior captain Dmitry Peters said of our two-time Coach of the Week. “He pushed us to be the best we could be. Even though we’re not the biggest team in the county, he still holds us to that standard, which makes us play the way we do. All that was different is that this was a district game.”

Speaking of District 8-8A, Basford’s primary goal this season was for his team to win it.

“Our goal of the district championship is still in place,” Basford said after his team finished off Park Vista on the road. “I knew we were going to hit a point where we would play a team that battles us to the end. I wanted to see if we were going to lay down or battle back. We definitely battled back. I’m proud of these guys and I’m proud of my coaches. It was a great team effort.”

The only team that is standing between Forest Hill and the District 8-8A title is Santaluces. In less than 48 hours, we will know how Forest Hill’s primary mission ultimately turns out.

The kickoff for Forest Hill’s road game against Santaluces is Friday, Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m.

“They have talent,” Basford said of Santaluces. “They have some players. We’re not gonna overlook them. We gotta finish what we came here to do. Just win one more. That’s our goal.”