In an exciting development for the New London girls basketball program, Josh Ford has been appointed as the new head coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Ford, who has a rich history in basketball and a deep connection to the New London community, is enthusiastic about his new role and is already immersing himself in preparations for the season.
"I’m in awe of getting this job. I am taking it all in and ready to get started," Ford expressed, highlighting his eagerness to lead the team. He has been actively reviewing game footage from the previous season, indicating his commitment to understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the team. Ford has previously coached some of the players during their middle school years and noted their promising performances in summer tournaments.
Ford’s coaching journey has been marked by significant experiences, including a season as an assistant coach under former New London girls coach Tammy Millsaps during the 2024-25 season. He also served as an assistant boys basketball coach at Ledyard High School and was involved as the assistant boys volleyball coach at New London. This diverse coaching background has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge that he aims to bring to his new position.
His connection to New London began during his time as a student at Mitchell College, where he not only played basketball but also graduated in 2015. Reflecting on the past, Ford remarked, "When I got here, the girls basketball team was a powerhouse that was either winning or competing for a state championship every season. We want to be at that level every season." He acknowledges the challenge ahead, as the team has lost some key players, but he is confident in the potential of the remaining athletes to step up.
The New London girls basketball team has a storied history, having reached four CIAC finals between 2014 and 2019, with championship victories in 2014 and 2017. More recently, they secured the Class MM title in 2023. Last season, the Whalers competed in Division II, and while the divisions for the upcoming season have yet to be announced, Ford is determined to elevate the program's competitiveness.
Ford takes over the head coaching position from Keyokah Mars-Garrick, who led the Whalers to an Eastern Connecticut Conference Division I tournament title in her single season before moving on to coach at Stonington. Under Mars-Garrick, New London finished with a respectable 13-6 record, but their postseason run ended with a narrow 65-60 loss to the eventual D-II runner-up, Rocky Hill.
A Mitchell College Athletic Hall of Famer, Ford left a significant mark on the program during his playing days, finishing his career with 1,749 points and 1,057 rebounds. He was recognized as the New England Collegiate Conference Player of the Year in both 2013 and 2014. In addition to his basketball accolades, Ford holds a bachelor’s degree in sport and fitness management from Mitchell and a master’s degree in education from Sacred Heart University. Currently, he teaches special education at Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School in New London, where he began his coaching career.
Leave a Comment