School principal Stan Lewis and athletic director Matt Stowers announced Monday that Tiffany Kirkland will become the school's next girls basketball coach, while Brittney Smith will take over the softball program.
Kirkland currently serves as girls basketball coach, softball coach and girls track coach at Ola Middle School in Henry County.
Kirkland will replace Coach Kory Bays, who stepped down following the 2013-14 season.
"Coach Kirkland will bring a unique perspective to our girls program in that she has worked at both the middle school and varsity levels of coaching," Stowers said via press release. "We feel this will assist us with developing continuity from our feeder schools to the varsity program. We have no doubt that she is a team player as she has agreed to assist with our softball program also. Her willingness to contribute to the overall athletic program at JHS was a major factor in our decision."
Johnson girls basketball has not reached the state playoffs since 2007.
Kirkland has also served as Ola Middle's athletic director, department chair for physical education, and department chair for connections. Prior to that, Coach Kirkland served one year as assistant varsity girls basketball coach at Union Grove High School.
Smith is currently a senior at Emanuel College in Franklin Springs. She is a 2010 graduate of Jefferson High School.
"Brittney Smith has vast playing experience at the college level, which we feel will be invaluable in teaching strong fundamental to our softball players," Stowers said. "She expresses genuine passion not only about coaching, but also teaching. We are confident that she will provide strong, positive leadership and guidance for our student- athletes."
Both coaches will take their positions upon Hall County School Board of Education approval.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2014/4/274027