Alethia Smartt-Rawn, SRO at Westwood Middle School in Manchester, has been named the new head volleyball coach for the Lady Rockets. Former Coffee County Lady Raider Abigail Layne has been named the new assistant coach, and Kaylee Smartt helping as well.
Smartt-Rawn conducted tryouts on Friday and Saturday and said the team has a lot of talent and potential. Smartt-Rawn added that Coach Haley had stepped down, so there was an opening. She said, “I applied for the position. I have gotten to know the girls over this past year, and I wanted to get involved more and help out where there was a need.” “Westwood Middle has become my home away from home. With the approval and blessing of Superintendent Dr Vaughn and Chief Bill Sipe I wanted to take on the challenge. I’m excited about this opportunity, and I am very grateful as well. I hope to make WMS proud, and with the help of my assistant, whose experience is top-notch, we plan to have a great season.”
This will be Smartt-Rawn’s first year coaching in an official capacity. Abigail Layne will also be in her first year of coaching as well. She brings a wealth of knowledge, having played volleyball for years and also playing for Coach Andrew Taylor at Coffee County. She currently plays on a league team in Murfreesboro.
Smartt-Rawn said they hope to prepare these ladies for their high school years.
