- Current TeamBuford Varsity Girls
Joined Buford in 2007
Basketball is one of the ultimate team games. Every position requires both offensive and defensive skills, and success depends on every player understanding their role and being willing and able to fulfill it. I also love that it’s a fast-paced game where players must make quick decisions and process everything at high speed.
I love being part of a team and all that is involved in that. The hours are long, and there are always frustrations at times, but the positives that come out of it make it all worth the time and sacrifice. I’ve seen many team members remain close friends long after their playing days are over, which is one of the most rewarding aspects of coaching.
My wife, Sandra, coached our feeder program and middle school teams for ten years. Together, we have three daughters: Taylor, Tory, and Tatum. All three played in our program from the time they were young girls through high school. Between them, they were able to be a part of 6 State Championships and 1 State Runner-up. Taylor graduated from the University of West Georgia, Tory recently finished her college basketball career and graduated from Michigan State University, and Tatum is currently a junior at the University of Georgia.
I started playing basketball in elementary school, continued through high school, and played four years at Berry College. I have been coaching basketball at some level for 36 years. I was a head high school coach for 17 years, a college assistant for 6 years, and a college head coach for 4 years. My coaching experience was on the boys’ side until I came to Buford, and this is my 18th year coaching girls here.
I chose to work at Buford because of its reputation as a system of excellence. I wanted to work in a place like this and give my children the best opportunities. For me, that was Buford City Schools. It was the best decision I ever made.
When I came here, Coach Dexter Wood emphasized the importance of connection. You have to be competent and knowledgeable, but even if you have those qualities, kids still won’t buy in unless you connect with them. The age-old saying that they don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care is still true today. Connection supersedes everything else.
Coaching Experience:
- 35+ years of basketball coaching experience
- 17 years as part of the Buford Lady Wolves coaching staff
Achievements:
- Winningest girls basketball coach in Georgia history
- 900th win on January 6th, 2023
- 10 state championship game appearances in the last 15 years
- 8 state championships with Buford Lady Wolves
