Jerrod Boone Takes the Helm of Smoky Mountain Varsity Girls Basketball Team

Smoky Mountain High School recently announced the appointment of Jerrod Boone as the new head coach for the Varsity Girls Basketball Program. This decision reflects a commitment to uphold and advance the rich tradition of basketball at Smoky Mountain.

A Proven Leader in the Community

With over two decades of coaching experience, Boone is well-regarded in Western North Carolina. He has dedicated the past seven years to serving the Smoky Mountain community, not only as a coach but also as an educator and mentor.

• Member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
• Has been integral in teaching physical education and leading various community initiatives.

Extensive Coaching Background

Boone’s coaching career spans 24 years, including a notable 10-season tenure as the head girls basketball coach at Enka High School. During his time there, he revitalized the program which led to:

• A conference tournament championship.
• A significant playoff run.

His teams became known for their defensive prowess and a team-first mentality, with numerous former players enjoying success beyond high school basketball.

Fostering Student-Athlete Development

At Smoky Mountain, Boone’s influence extends beyond basketball. He has contributed by:

• Conducting physical education classes.
• Coaching football.
• Assisting both the girls’ and boys’ varsity basketball teams.

He has also focused on empowering young female athletes through strength training, implementing a dedicated program to enhance their physical capabilities and self-confidence.

Vision for the Future

As he steps into the role of head coach, Boone is eager to elevate the existing programs by introducing a comprehensive strength and agility initiative tailored for female athletes.

Connecting the Community

One of Boone’s overarching goals is to create a strong basketball pipeline within Jackson County, connecting with local K-8 schools and community programs. By aligning developmental strategies, he aims to:

• Maintain engagement from young athletes.
• Ensure a consistent flow of skills and mentorship throughout the district.

Support from the Athletic Department

Boone was selected for this position through a thorough interview process led by a committee that included Cindi Simmons, J.T. Postell, and others, chaired by Athletic Director Thomas Young. Young praised Boone, stating, “Coach Boone is an educator, a builder, and a leader who genuinely cares about our student-athletes. He’s ready to invest in our girls every day – in the classroom, the weight room, and the community. This is a great day for Smoky Mountain basketball.”

With Boone at the helm, Smoky Mountain High School looks to not only enhance the current basketball program but also to cultivate future generations of confident student-athletes.