Cookeville High School (CHS) has hired Joshua Heard to lead its boys basketball program.
The former Prescott South Middle School coach said he’s excited for the opportunity.
“Over the last couple of years being a middle school basketball coach here at Prescott, at Algood, Avery Trace… being able to know one day down the road all those kids are going to be playing together on the same team, it means a lot,” Heard said. “The core kids we have now on the basketball team is excellent. I’m eager and hungry to get in there and lead those guys.”
The position became available after former coach Kevin Bray stepped down last month. Bray will continue to serve as a teacher at CHS.
Heard said having coaching experience at the middle school level will help build and maintain positive relationships with students.
“When they finally get to you at the high school, they’re going to understand and know the kind of attitude, behavior, and work ethic they’re going to need to become good basketball players,” Heard said.
The Cavaliers compiled a 23-10 overall record during the 2018-2019 season under Bray. The program has earned 20 or more wins in each of the last eight seasons.
Heard will enter his 13th year in education and leads Cookeville High School’s behavioral health program.
