Changing Defense by the Numbers

About the Book

About the Author

Coach Willie Dorsey received his early professional training at Florida A&M University. He was a veteran of the Korean War. Eager to make up the two years he spent in the U. S. Army, he decided not to play any sports in college. Dorsey loved all sports. He was an all state defensive back in football while attending high school at Matthew W. Gilbert in Jacksonville, Florida. He also played basketball and ran track at Matthew W. Gilbert. If you are a sports buff, and you are wondering if he competed against the great Bob Hayes, the answer is no. He was about five grades ahead of Bullet Hayes, a Gilbert graduate and friend.

Coach Dorsey wanted to be a high school coach after graduating from college. To enhance his chances, he chose to get involved with college athletics. He met legendary coach, Ed. “Rock” Oglesby, who was in charge of the basketball program at Florida A&M University. Dorsey volunteered to become an aide, and coach Oglesby accepted. Coach Dorsey graduated from Florida A&M University in January 1959. He was hired by the Duval County School System, in Jacksonville, Florida, August 1959. Coach Dorsey coached baseball, basketball, and was an assistant football coach. He coached at four schools in Jacksonville during his 28 years in coaching. His longest tenure at one school was 18 years as head basketball coach at William M. Raines High School. His team was known for the full court pressing defense and fast breaking offense. His teams at Raines won six conference championships, one district, one regional, and two nineteen and under AAU state championships. His teams had ten 20 wins plus seasons. He was inducted into the Florida Athletic Coaches Hall of Fame on March 19, 1989. Coach Dorsey was inducted into the Jacksonville Sports Hall of Fame in April 28, 1994. He also was inducted into the illustrious William M. Raines Hall of Fame in 2003. None of the honors would have been possible without the love and assistance of his wonderful family. This book is dedicated to them and the hard working coaches and players in his programs.