Harrell named new Lady Hawks coach
Jessica Harrell
Harrell replaces Jason Love, who recently vacated the position to join coach Alicia Daugherty’s staff as an assistant at Clinton High School.
She is no stranger to the sports scene in Clinton. Harrell has a daughter, Henley, who is a rising eighth grader at CMS and plays for the Lady Hawks.
“I’ve been involved in basketball for about the last 15 years in Clinton, whether it’s at South Clinton or in Upward,” Harrell said. “I’ve had almost all of these girls, and I’ve had Myla Queener and Tora Beeler, who are moving on to the high school.
“For me, it’s all about development. My goal has always been development, whether it’s in elementary school, middle school, travel ball or wherever. I can’t hang wins on the wall, but I want to help you take the next step and get there.”
Harrell, a graduate of Powell Valley High School, was a standout high school player and helped her team make its first appearance in the state sectional playoffs.
She is excited to continue investing her time in helping young athletes in Clinton, and her vision for the team and its players goes beyond basketball.
She has previously worked with younger players, and as she moves into the middle school game, her philosophy won’t change.
“My purpose in coaching basketball has always been to develop young athletes, giving them the foundation they need to make it to the next level,” Harrell said. “This position is no different. We are going to start from the ground up and develop young ladies into stronger, faster, more resilient and athletic young women.
“We can’t raise the roof if we don’t build the walls to get it on.”
Harrell replaces Love, who rebuilt the program almost from scratch. Last winter, he guided the Lady Hawks to a third-place finish in their district.
Harrell is looking to build upon Love’s success.
“Jason did a great job laying the foundation,” she said. “We’re looking to build upon what he started.”
