Coaches
Our basketball club is blessed to have a deep bench of COACHES, which includes a long list of current high school coaches, middle school coaches, and several former college players.
- 5 coaches played professionally
- 25 coaches played collegiately
- 40+ coaches on staff with High Schools and/or Middle Schools
We have retained and/or hired “TRANSFORMATIONAL COACHES” for the 2024 Spring Travel Team Season – Leaders that are intentional in their efforts to impact athletes both ON and OFF the court!
We truly have a “MORE THAN” vibe as a club; this culture flows through our coaching staff as we strive to be a “community of difference-makers” (like-minded leaders who love Christ, kids, and basketball).
Our coaches are “trained, equipped, and empowered” to “Plant seeds for Christ through the game of basketball.“
2024 CLUB YEAR: UA RISE & PREMIER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS COACHES
Basketball Experience: Former D1 player; Ensworth School – Varsity Boys Basketball Coach (current); STARS UA HS Boys’ Coach (current – 3 years); Head Coach of Montgomery Bell Academy Freshman Boys’ team (3 years).
Personal Facts: Belmont University guard from 2011-15 and has doctorate degree
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: Because of Lance Akridge. Lance’s passion for positively impacting young people’s lives on and off the court through Jesus, and the game of basketball is infectious
Basketball Experience: Played 4 years at Menomonee Falls; Welch College Men’s Assistant Coach (current – 6 years)
Personal Facts: Belmont University grad in 2015
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: To lead young men to Christ through basketball
Basketball Experience: College (4 years); Student Assistant Coach – Mount Marty College (NAIA)(1995-1996), Wakonda HS Head Boys’ Coach (1997-1999), Mount Marty College (NAIA) Assistant Coach (1999-2002), Graceland University (NAIA) Associate Head Coach (2002-2005), Graceland University (NAIA) Head Coach (2005-2008), Nyack College (DII) Head Coach (2008-2012), Mount Marty College (NAIA) Assistant Coach (2012-2013), Sunset MS Head Boys’ Coach (2018-2021), STARS Club Team coach since 2015
Personal Facts: BA from Mount Marty College and MA from University of South Dakota; Wife – Jackie, and children – Jenna and Kellen; Director of Programming and Leadership Enhancement for STARS Basketball Club
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: At a time when so many young men and women have been used to win a basketball games, it is important to use the game to win the hearts of young players and to point them to Christ, the ultimate source of love. Increasingly, I find that fear is one thing holding back young people of experiencing freedom on and off the court. Coaching with STARS allows me to speak life into kids and reduce the fear and anxiety that hinders them as young leaders.
Basketball Experience: Played college mutiple years; Brentwood Academy Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach (current -1 year); Nashville Christian School Varsity Boys’ Assistant (1 year); STARS UA Rise 2026 HS Boys’ Coach (current)
Personal Facts: Former student manager of University of South Carolina Men’s Team; South Carolina graduate; Recently married
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: To share Christ through basketball – plant seeds for Christ
Basketball Experience: Played at Clarksville Academy; Kenwood High School Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach (current – 1 year); Clarksville Academy Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach (2020-2023); Clarksville Academy Middle School Boys’ Assistant Coach (2022-2023); Also coached with Pro Skills (Nashville and EAB 3SSB (16U & 17U); STARS NORTH 2024 Boys’ Coach (2023)
Personal Facts: Played football at Austin Peay (2019 OVC Champion); engaged to be married in September 2024
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: For the opportunity to mold young men through basketball and Christ
Basketball Experience: High School and college; 15 years coaching at youth, travel, and middle & high school levels
Personal Facts: Technology entrepreneur
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: It’s simple – to give back in all aspects of basketball and life! I believe in our kids, I love our kids, and I want to do my part to help them succeed and strive to become the best person they can be
Basketball Experience: Played at high school and collegiate level (Belmont University); 10 years coaching travel basketball in multiple age groups
Personal Facts: Coached (2023) 8th Grade UA Future Team to UA National Championship; Dad played with Larry Bird
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: Absolutely LOVE teaching youth
Basketball Experience: 15 years coaching at multiple levels; BGA Basketball Coach (2009 – 2014, 2019 – 2021); Special Olympics Basketball Coach (2016 – Present); STARS Basketball Coach and Camp Instructor (2016 – Present); AAU Basketball Coach (2009 – Present); FRA Basketball Coach (2014 – 2018); WNSL Gym Monitor and Camp Instructor (2011 – Present); Division II District Tournament Director (2014)
Personal Fact: Lipscomb University, Master of Business Administration, 2015. University of Tennessee, Bachelor of Arts in Communication, 2009
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? To build confidence in young men and women through the game of basketball that they can carry over the life lessons into their every day lives now and in the future. Sports are a great tool for young people to learn about challenges in life. You have to work hard to have success and you have to get back up and work harder WHEN you fail. (FAIL – First Attempt In Learning). Love watching young people become leaders on the playing fields/courts and in the community because of their hard work!
2024 CLUB YEAR: UA RISE & PREMIER HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS COACHES
Basketball Experience: 19 years coaching; Father Ryan HS Varsity Girls’ Coach (2 years – current); former Grace Christian Academy Varsity Girls’ Coach (2017-2020); STARS High School Girls Coach (UA Rise) (2015-Present)
Personal Fact: Graduated from Lee University BS in Telecommunications; Master’s Degree from Cumberland University in Education; Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio (Kings HS ’00). Wife Kendall; 2 Children – Caleigh and Brandon.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Basketball is a game that I love but more important than that it is a game that has the ability to teach many life lessons. We are called to make an impact on others and coaching is a great avenue to do so, especially when it comes to building confidence in somebody both on and off the court. The relationships you build is also something that is very special. Thankful to be able to coach this game, and thankful for the opportunity to make an impact.
Basketball Experience: Current Assistant Coach at Welch College in Gallatin, TN. Current NORTH Hub Director for STARS Basketball Club. Also involved at Welch College in player development and strength & conditioning. Previously coached with STARS and PSB. Co-coach of UA Rise HS Girls (2025 & 2026)
Personal Fact: Love to read, listen to music, and follow the Tennessee Vols!
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I coach with STARS because it gives me an opportunity to live out my life’s purpose. I believe I am here to lead young people in a Godly way. Basketball is the vehicle I use.
Basketball Experience: Davidson Academy JV Boys’ Coach (2020-2023); Varsity Boys’ Asst Coach at Davidson Academy (2011-2014; 2020-2023); STARS 2024 Premier Girls’ Coach (2023); STARS 7th Grade Girls (2019-2020); Davidson Academy – Varsity Girls Asst. Coach (2013-2018); Davidson Academy Middle School Boys’ Head Coach (2012-2013) and TNT State Tournament Final Four (2012); 5th/6th Grade Boys Head Coach (2015-2017); Middle School Girls Head Coach (2017-2108); 4-year letterman at Davidson Academy. Helped lead Varsity Girls’ teams at Davidson Academy to back-to-back 20+ win seasons (2015-2017) and 2023 Davidson Academy Varsity Boys’ Team to Elite 8
Personal Facts: Assistant Director of STARS Basketball Club. Graduate of Trevecca Nazarene University – Masters of Organizational Leadership (2015); Samford University – B.S. Physical Education (1995); Married to Shelly; 2 Children – Anna Marie & AJ, both at Samford University
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: The game of basketball teaches so many valuable life lessons. Student athletes can learn how to set goals, challenge themselves to achieve more than they ever thought possible, to overcome adversity, understand the value and benefits of teamwork, and so much more. NO ONE approaches the game like STARS – unapologetically about Jesus, while competing at a high level
Basketball Experience: 20 years coaching at multiple levels; Ellis Middle School Girls’ Assistant Coach (current); Multiple years with STARS’ team – most recently 2024 HS Girls Premier
Personal Fact: High Point University 1994, B.S in Business and Economics as well as Accounting, Belmont University (2005), MBA Certified Public Accountant Children- Eli, Silas and Chloe
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: I really enjoy helping young players build skill as well as confidence in that skill and then adding the knowledge of how to use it. My measure of success is whether or not the players I coach want to keep playing. Also love encouraging young people.
Basketball Experience: Current Lipscomb Academy Varsity Girls’ Assistant Coach (2022 – current). High Point University Women’s Basketball (2013-17); Assistant Girls’ Basketball Coach at Harding Academy (Memphis, TN) (2017-19); Graduate Assistant Coach for Women’s Basketball at Belmont University (2019-21); STARS Girls’ Basketball Coach (2020 – present)
Personal Fact: Originally from Memphis. All-time leading scorer at Harding Academy and High Point University. Working on Masters in Sports Administration (Belmont University). Love to watch basketball, cook, bake, and listen to music and oldest of 6 siblings
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I coach with STARS because of our commitment to bettering the lives of our student athletes both on and off the court.
Basketball Experience: Assistant Girls Basketball Coach at Apollo Middle School (2014 – 2017); Head Coach/Trainer for Tennessee Extreme Hooperz Girls 16U Travel Teams (2017 – 2019); Assistant Boys Basketball Coach at Jere Baxter Middle School (2019 – 2020); Player at Vol State (1997 – 1999)
Personal Fact: Graduate of MTSU – B.S. Mass Communication (2004)
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I enjoy giving back to the youth! Playing basketball since a child made me into who I am today. I love coaching because it gives me the opportunity to share my knowledge of the game and help kids grow on and off the court.
Basketball Experience: 40 years coaching – Middle Tennessee Christian Academy Varsity Girls’ Assistant (current), Lancaster Christian, Central Magnet, and Smyrna; STARS UA Future and UA Rise Girls’ Coach
Personal Fact: Associates Degree in Sports Management; 3 children; 6 grandchildren
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Because I am interested in a child’s overall growth and development. STARS does that with the faith-based approach
Basketball Experience: High School, college, and professional – Welch College and East Point Jaguars (ABA); Christian Community School MS and Varsity Girls’ Head Coach (2019 – current), former White House High School Assistant Varsity and Head JV Coach
Personal Fact: Business Administration degree and Theology. From Atlanta, GA and I have 3 siblings, including a twin sister
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I love the mission of STARS and being able to share the gospel through the game of basketball. I love being able to help kids pursue their dreams and help them with life lessons. I’ve been with STARS for a couple of years and love everything about it.
Basketball Experience: High School; 3 years, MS-HS, Pleasant View Christian and Christian Community, PSB and STARS
Personal Fact: Bachelor’s Degree; have always wanted to coach basketball
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? It allows me to put my dreams to reality. I was called at 8 to bring kids to know Christ but my dream was to coach basketball. STARS provides a platform where I can put my calling and dream into one and influence middle school and high school girls to do the same.
2024 CLUB YEAR: SOUTH & NORTH HIGH SCHOOL BOYS & GIRLS COACHES
Basketball Experience: 12 years experience – Assistant Boys’ Coach at BGA Middle School, Centennial HS, BGA Varsity Boys; Former Head Varsity Boys’ Coach at Centennial HS and Clarksville Academy
Personal Fact: Married to Hope; 2 boys, Isaiah and Oliver
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Always enjoy combining my love for the game, competitive spirit, and Holy Spirit, to impact kids and grow the game. STARS is the perfect mix.
Basketball Experience: High school and college; I coached 5 years as an assistant on the junior college level. I coached 2 years as a Middle School HC in Gallatin, TN. Assistant Varsity Boys’ Coach at Pope Prep (2022-current). Total of 9 years experience across all levels.
Personal Fact: B.S. Sport and Leisure Management. M.Ed. in Special Education
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? It is a great organization that does things the right way and they reach out to a vast number of kids across the state and beyond.
Basketball Experience: Info coming soon
Personal Fact: Info coming soon
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Info coming soon
Basketball Experience: Coached HS 9 years. – 2 at Lipscomb HS, 7 at Portland HS, 2 at Ellis MS, 5 at SCMS, 1 head coaching yr at Ellis and 2 head coaching at SCMS; multiple travel teams at every age group, AAU nationals as well as grassroots and Hoopseen “Best of South” appearances
Personal Fact: Berea College (1996-2000) Major: Physical Education, Minor – Spanish; Played basketball at Berea College (1996); I have 3 boys who are STARS Alumni!
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I coach with STARS because of its high standard to being more than. This is the best place to walk with Christ and share those experiences within a basketball environment.
Basketball Experience: 7 years Tennessee Connection, Siegel Elementary, Oakland Middle School, Page High School, MTCS, Riverdale High Schools, Liberty Academy
Personal Fact: I LOVE to win in every phase of life, but without cutting corners.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I coach with STARS to have the opportunity to help young athletes produce into better people, and I know STARS has the connections with the community to do such a thing.
Basketball Experience: 3 years of coaching experience – 1 year as a varsity assistant at Columbia Central High School with the boys’ program; 2 years head coaching experience – Zion Christian Academy Varsity Girls’ Head Coach (1 year), Mt. Pleasant Varsity Girls’ Head Coach (current)
Personal Fact: Currently pursuing a teaching degree in math
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? STARS places an importance not only on developing the athletic skills of the athletics, but also developing the character of the athletes and I believe that is the most important part about coaching.
Basketball Experience: High school player; 8 years coaching – High School & Middle School: Spring Hill HS, Thompson’s Station MS, Tenn Hurricanes AAU, & Nashville Warriors Homeschool
Personal Fact: Coached the 2019 Homeschool Nat’l Champions Girls 14U Div1 Class8A, and selected to head coach in the national all-star game; 5 children and 2 grandchildren
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Competitive basketball provides countless opportunities to mentor young players and impact their character for life.
Basketball Experience: Played professionally in Europe; 20 years experience coaching in both college and high school; Shafer Middle School Boys’ Head Coach (current)
Personal Fact: Lipscomb University graduate with degree in Recreation and Coaching
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I LOVE the organization and the way they help kids.
Basketball Experience: Played professionally in Lithuania; 3 years coaching with STARS, Zion Christian Academy Varsity Boys’ Head Coach (current)
Personal Fact: Recently married
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I believe sports, basketball especially, is a great tool to prepare kids for life. Basketball is a game of runs -ups and downs, hills and valleys, green pastures and dark patches: just like life. If we can empower kids to get through a tough segment of practice or withstand runs during games, they will be more equipped to fight through adversity in the real world. Im also big on letting your light shine. I believe everyone has a unique light to them that the universe needs them to illuminate. This requires people to find their voice and confidence early in life. I truly believe youth sports is the best way to help kids find their light, especially if they have leaders who lead by FAITH and strive to lead and live in a Christ-like manner.
Basketball Experience: Played at Houston Baptist University; 4 years MS and HS school – Freedom Middle, Grace Christian Academy, and STARS Basketball
Personal Fact: Masters degree in Christian Leadership
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I enjoy the families and the kids that STARS has! They are amazing people and have had the privilege of forming great relationships.
Basketball Experience: Played at NAIA – D1 Mid-Continent University; I Christian Community School Head Coach 5th & 6th Grade Boys and MS Boys, STARS (2 years), multiple years AAU/Travel; also coach for CP3 National Middle School Combine, CP3 Rising Stars, and Snow Valley Basketball School in Iowa.
Personal Fact: Love golf, travel, family time, and movies.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I love basketball and using it as a platform to connect with people. STARS has some of the greatest people I’ve ever met involved with and working for them. I coach with STARS because I love the connection I’ve made with those people, their values align with mine, they allow me the freedom to coach my team how I want, and they have the organizational structure needed to be successful and to make an impact on lives.
Basketball Experience: High School and some college. 6 years experience coaching middle and high school (Rucker Stewart and PSB)
Personal Fact: 2 college degrees (computer and electronic engineering and network engineering). Married with 4 children and originally from Jackson, TN.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I believe in uplifting and youth sports can be life changing. At the end of it all we all want our kids to be successful in their own way. Along the way we run into people that can show us something different in life. I feel I can show kids a life while playing basketball and after basketball.
Basketball Experience: High school and college; Springfield High School Varsity Boys’ Head Coach (current), former Whites Creek High School JV Boys’ Head Coach and Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach, former Lebanon High School Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach, EAB Gold/3SSB (1 year)
Personal Fact: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from University of Miami (FL)
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? STARS is a great organization that connects basketball to faith and leadership. STARS represents the core values of faith, family, and sports.
2024 CLUB YEAR: SOUTH HUB COACHES 8TH GRADE & YOUNGER
Basketball Experience: High School; 6 years coaching with STARS and Franklin Christian Academy Middle School
Personal Fact: Bachelors degree, married, with one child
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: To impact the youth in a positive way through God and basketball. Sole mission is to get kids to realize God is way more important than anything.
Basketball Experience: Brad: High School; 5 years of coaching recreation leagues ranging from Kindergarten through 6th grade. 1 year of club level play as a 4th grade coach; Stephanie: 4 Years of coaching at the Rec level for grades ranging from 2nd-6th grade. 1 Year of Club ball coaching for a 4th grade team
Personal Fact: Drew: I am an HVAC business owner and father to 5; Stephanie: I am a mother to 5
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: Drew: STARS is a program we align with. My wife and I have had a hard time finding programs for our kids where they coach in a way we agree with. I love that STARS is openly Christian. I look forward to giving uplifting messages as I pour into these kids. Stephanie: I coach with STARS because of the atmosphere that their program brings to place an importance of teaching and learning through respectful authority while allowing us coaches to place an emphasis on creating a love for the game through biblical principles.
Basketball Experience: High School; 7 years of elementary school clinics, and a combined 8 years of middle school clinics. Manager with Belmont University Women’s Basketball for 3 years, and Grad Assistant for 2 years (current).
Personal Fact: I graduated Belmont in 2022 with a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science and a Bachelor’s in Sport Administration. I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Sport Administration and working as the Graduate Assistant for Belmont Women’s Basketball and a Graduate Teaching Assistant in Belmont’s Exercise Science department
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: I really love the MORE THAN culture that STARS displays for its athletes. Sports is such a great way for kids to interact with adults directly, and to see how kids respond to difficult situations. It helps if adults are demonstrating a Christ-like stature when responding to those issues, and the kids pick up on that. It carries over through sport, and all adversity they face in life.
Basketball Experience: College and professional; Travel Club Coach 8 years (Lakers Elite and Stars Basketball Club), Woodland Middle School Head Coach 5 seasons
Personal Fact: I have been and currently am a business professional in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries for almost 25 years and started my career as an analytical chemist where I developed novel therapies in the respiratory therapeutic area. I am a student-athlete graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Biomedical Science. I also hold multiple Master’s Degrees in Biotechnology and Business Administration from the University of Maryland. I have 3 children who play sports and I am bless to coach or have coached them all in basketball and their various other sports.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball: I coach with Stars because it allows me to not only grow in my passion for the game of basketball but also develop young talent through instruction and encouragement. Stars allows me to express, openly, my Faith in God and share in a community of believers who ascribe to the same faith structure while utilizing the game of basketball as a mechanism to foster a relationship with the Lord.
Basketball Experience: College and Professional; Current Director of Sports Performance and Assistant Men’s Coach at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, TN. Also played at Trevecca Nazarene University.
Personal Fact: Exercise Science degree from Trevecca Nazarene University; Love spending time with family, working out, listening/watching podcasts.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? To serve and pour back into the next generation; helping those coming after me to see how basketball can be used as a vehicle on a life journey – a journey that will teach you valuable life lessons, gain lifetime relationships, open many doors, and become a crossbridge.
Basketball Experience: Franklin Road Academy (4 yrs), 6th-12th grade. Pope John Paul II (JPII) (1 yr) 9th-12th grade. Ran my own club basketball program for 5 yrs. Teams ranged from 6th grade -12th grade. Competed in local tournaments and regional showcase tournaments (<8 hr driving distance)
Personal Fact: Two children (London and Haven). All of my high school teammates played college basketball, one played for Duke and in the NBA.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I align with the mission and believe basketball provides a great opportunity to teach kids about life and faith.
Basketball Experience: High School; 1 Year with STARS and 1 season at Grassland Middle School
Personal Fact: I have lived in Franklin, TN my whole life. I graduated from Grassland Middle, Franklin High, and played competitive sports my whole life. My family, who I am very close with, attend church at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball?I coach with STARS to build relationships and help guide student-athletes. I believe faith and basketball run parallel and teaches young men and women how to navigate through the ups and downs of life.
Basketball Experience: Played at Missouri State University for current Lady Vols’ Head Coach, Kelli Harper. Transferred to Marist College in New York where I was #6 in the nation in assists (D1). West Des Moines Valley High School JV Head Coach, Varsity Assistant (1 year); Brentwood Academy JV Head Coach, Varsity Assistant (1 year); STARS 4th grade head coach (2022-2023)
Personal Fact: Love spending time on the boat in the summer, skiing in the winter, going to sporting events in Nashville and spending quality time with my friends and family. Happily married to husband, Landon Allison
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I coach with STARS because of the high standard we hold ourselves to and because I believe there is opportunity to elevate the play in the girl’s program.
Basketball Experience: Currently play for Trevecca Nazarene University Women’s Team. Played at Friendship Christian School and Mt. Juliet High School. STARS Coach since 2022 (multiple teams).
Personal Fact: I am currently getting my Bachelor’s degree in K-8 Special Education, and plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I believe in uplifting and youth sports can be life changing. At the end of it all we all want our kids to be successful in their own way. Along the way we run into people that can show us something different in life. I feel I can show kids a life while playing basketball and after basketball.
Basketball Experience: College; Current Head JV Coach at Rose Park Middle School in Nashville. Played at Alabama A&M University earning First-team All-conference honors. Have coached travel basketball for 11 years; 9th year with STARS.
Personal Fact: I work in healthcare IT and have three sons; TJ, Trenton and Trey
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Great organization, strong leadership and the Christ-centered focus
Basketball Experience: Head Coach of Page High School JV team and Assistant Varsity Boys’ coach at Page High School in Franklin, TN (2021-current). Played collegiately at Belhaven College (2006-08). Skills development coach since 2003.
Personal Fact: Have two sons, Wilkes and Whitt, that love sports and attend Chapman’s Retreat Elementary School.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I have been in love with the game of basketball for 30 years. I am fortunate to have been surrounded by amazing coaches during my playing career. My coaches have helped shape my approach to basketball and the impact that the game can have on not only my life, but other athletes’ lives off the court as well. My ultimate goal is to help prepare our youth for life through the game of basketball much like the coaches I’ve been lucky enough to experience.
Basketball Experience: High School (Creek Wood High School), Assistant Basketball Coach at William James Middle School 2013-2018. Head Basketball Coach at William James Middle School (2019- Current)
Personal Fact: I am a servant to my community. I work for Second Harvest Food Bank in Food Resourcing. I am a husband and a father to two boys.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? It is a Faith-based organization that shares the same values as me. Impacting young men and women to come close to God and teach the game of basketball.
Basketball Experience: High school; William James Middle School Boys’ Assistant Coach (2022 – current); North Dickson County Basketball League (3 years – grades 4 – 7)
Personal Fact: Graduated from Freed-Hardeman University with B.S. and M.B.A. in finance. Currently work at non-profit called The Housing Fund in Nashville.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I enjoy seeing kids learn the game of basketball. I also enjoy seeing them make adjustments and grow their game as reps increase, and more practices occur throughout the season.
Basketball Experience: College; 9 years of Coaching Experience: Dickson Middle School (Head Coach), Dickson County High School (Assistant Coach), Grassland Middle School (Head Coach), Franklin High School (Assistant Coach). Played at Columbia State CC for 2 years.
Personal Fact: Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, Love to watch basketball games, listen to music, and read books.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I believe in the movement that STARS represents by sharing with student athlete’s the love of God and Basketball.
Basketball Experience: High School; 2 years 5th – 6th coach (Davidson Academy) 4 years – middle school coach (Davidson Academy), 3 year HS girls jv and assistant (Rockvale HS – 2 years and Eagleville HS – current), 5+ years with STARS (multiple teams)
Personal Fact: I live in Eagleville TN with my husband Matthew and 2 dogs, Percy and Bogey. I am an aunt to three amazing kids, Murray, Maddox, and Millie! I am thankful for family and friends that love and support me in my coaching and teaching career.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I choose to coach with the STARS program each year primarily because of the community of athletes, families, and coaches. The faith led community is unlike any thing I have experienced. The coaches support each other and the athletes do as well! I am thankful to work with coaches and athletes who strive to learn, be challenged, and improve daily on the court and off. I am proud to call STARS home because the program through its coaches have cultivated a place where mistakes are okay. It has even been a place of healing and a confidence booster for athletes and myself in their journey of growth through the game of basketball.
Favorite Bible Verse: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.”
Coaching Experience: (2021-Current) Head Girls Varsity Coach at Battle Ground Academy. (2017- 2021) Head Girls Varsity coach and Boys Varsity Assistant Brentwood High School; (2016-2017) Head Boys JV and Varsity Assistant Brentwood High School; (2015-2016) Head Middle School Varsity girls coach; Head 4th grade girls coach; (2015) Head Coach of Top Flight Ballers travel basketball program; (2014-2015) Head Middle School Varsity and JV head coach at BGA; (2014-2015) Assistant HS varsity girls coach at BGA; (2012-2014) Assistant HS Varsity Girls/Head JV and 9th grade at BGA; (2011) Head Coach The Basketball Academy of Tennessee; (2010) Head Coach USBA, 11U and 15U boys, AAU; (2008) Head Coach Top Flight All-Stars, AAU; (2007) Head Coach Southeast Pro-Am, Coaching Accomplishments: 2019 Brentwood High School 29-3 record District Runner Up; Regional Champions; Sub-State Champions; State Tournament Semi-Finalist; District 12 AAA Coach of the Year; 2018 Brentwood High School 21-10 record District and Regional Runner Up; 2017 Brentwood High School 23-9 record District, Regional, and Sub-State Runner Up
Personal Fact: Stillman College All-Time leader in scoring over 2000 pts scored in 4-year career.
Why coach youth basketball? I choose to coach youth basketball to help our youth develop as athletes and as well-round individuals in life
Coaching Experience: Info coming soon
Personal Fact: Info coming soon
Why coach youth basketball? Info coming soon
Basketball Experience: Playing: University of North Georgia (2010-2013); Cherokee High School (GA) (2005-2009); Coaching: 10 years – Franklin High School Assistant Head Coach and JV Head Coach (2020-Present); Davidson Academy Head JV and Assistant Varsity Boys’ Basketball Coach (2019-2020); STARS (2018-Present); Trevecca University Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach (2016-2018); Cherokee High School Skill Development Coach (2015-2016); University of West Alabama Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach (2014-2015); Tennessee Temple University Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach (2013-2014); Point Guard College (2013-Present).
Personal Fact: Studied Business Management at UNG. Married to Leslie, who is a nurse. Have a family full of coaches (dad, uncle, and 2 cousins)
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I have been very fortunate over the years to have coaches that poured into my life. I want to give back to the younger generations. I love the game of basketball, it has been very good to me over the years, so I want to share that love of the game with others. I believe sports can teach valuable life lessons that help athletes grow on and off the court, and I feel honored to be able to help guide those athletes through that process.
Basketball Experience: High School and College; I have 7 years coaching experience. I have coach middle school and high school boys and girls. Tullahoma High School, Blackman High School, Shelbyville Central High School
Personal Fact: Married with two children
Why coach youth basketball? Their beliefs lines up with my beliefs and they give me the opportunity to share my faith.
Basketball Experience: Assistant coaching with STARS (summer and fall leagues), volunteering and working tournaments and camps
Personal Fact: B.A. in Elementary Education. Married with two grown boys.
Why coach youth basketball? I like having fun coaching and teaching the young players.
Basketball Experience: High School; I have been coaching for 26 years. I have coached an Upward team, all the way up to being a student assistant at Martin Methodist College (UT Southern). 1996-2002 Student Assistant Coach Martin Methodist College, 2002 Assistant Coach Colorado NWCC, 2003-2005
Personal Fact: I have a Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education K-8 from Martin Methodist College, Master’s degree in Modified SPED K-12. I have been married to my wife, Ami, for 20 years. We have 3 kids: Elizabeth, 18 and a freshman at UT-Martin; Sarah, 16, sophomore at Coffee Co. High School; Cole, 15, freshman at Coffee Co. High School
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball?To get to work in an organization, that is faith-based, and for the opportunity to run my own team and work with young people.
Basketball Experience: 40 years coaching – Middle Tennessee Christian Academy Varsity Girls’ Assistant (current), Lancaster Christian, Central Magnet, and Smyrna; STARS UA Future and UA Rise Girls’ Coach
Personal Fact: Associates Degree in Sports Management; 3 children; 6 grandchildren
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Because I am interested in a child’s overall growth and development. STARS does that with the faith-based approach
Basketball Experience: Assistant Coach: Columbia College, Columbia, MO (1992-1994); Hastings College, Hastings, NE (1995); Cumberland University, Lebanon, TN (1995-1998, 2002-2004); Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN (1998-99); Motlow State Community College, Tullahoma, TN (1999-2002); Birmingham Southern University, Birmingham, AL (2000); La Vergne High School, La Vergne, TN (2012-2015); Ravenwood High School (2018-Present) Head Coach: Central Jr. High School (girls), Fayetteville, TN (1998); Harris Middle School (boys), Shelbyville, TN (1999); Hillwood High School Varsity Boys, Nashville, TN (2006-2008); Portland High School Varsity boys, Portland, TN (2008-2012); Franklin Knights, WBA Summer Pro League, Franklin, TN (2010); Stewarts Creek High School Varsity Boys, Smyrna, TN (2015-2018), STARS (multiple years)
Personal Fact: BA History/English from Univ. of Missouri, M.Ed. from TSU in Elem. Ed, Ed. D from TSU in higher-ed Admin. Married 24 years to Karen Anneken. 4 kids (Seth, Gavin, Reagan, Libby)
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I love being able to develop lifelong relationships with young athletes and having the ability to assist them in becoming better equipped to grow into great husbands, wives, fathers, and mothers for their future families. Well-run organization and love the ability to teach basketball using biblical principles and emphasizing God as the center of our journey.
Basketball Experience: Played high school and college (Bethel University 2015-19); Assistant Girls Basketball Coach at Delton Kellogg High School (2019-2022); 6th Grade Girls’ Coach at Spring Station Middle School (current)
Personal Fact: Originally from Michigan, Go Blue! Graduated from Bethel University with a B.S. in Exercise Science/Sport Management (2019). Currently working at Heritage Elementary.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Coaching gives us the opportunity to impact the lives of young people while playing the game we love! I’m passionate about being able to serve in a way that helps these athletes work towards becoming the best they can be in their sport and in their faith.
Basketball Experience: Playing Experience: Aquinas Junior College, (84-86); played under Nashville legendary Coach Charles Anderson. Belmont College/University (86-87); played on the first team of legendary Coach, Rick Byrd. One Season professionally in Portugal, (91-92). 37 years, High School & Middle School, Harding Academy, Grassland Middle School, Stratford Middle, Valor Collegiate Academy, Franklin Christian Academy, Stars Basketball, Tennessee A-game, Franklin Fury, Music City Warriors, Tennessee Ladys,
Personal Fact: Graduate of Tennessee State University, B. S. in Physical Education & Health, K-12, 1999. 12, Married with a blended, with 5 children, 4 daughters & a son, all adults and independent. I’ve won 2 Gold and 1 Silver Medal in my age division, in the National Senior Olympics Games 3 on 3 Basketball Event.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball?STARS Organization has given the opportunity and the freedom to give back and impact the lives of young adults/kids in a spiritual way. The program has allowed me to pour into the lives of the young men I coach, to help develop their character into MORE THAN just athletes but followers and believers of Jesus Christ
Basketball Experience: High School and College; Summit High School Assistant (5 years), Mount Juliet High School Varsity Boys’ Head Coach (current)
Personal Fact: I was able to play collegiately for the team I grew up a fan of (Auburn University)
Why coach youth basketball? God has blessed me with great opportunity through the game of basketball and I hope to be an instrument for him to bless others.
Basketball Experience: High School; 3+ years youngest being 5th grade, oldest being JV
Personal Fact: Wife, Andrea is a registered dietician. I have a Bachelor’s Degree from Mississippi State University, where I was a manager for the men’s basketball team.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? It is so rare to find an opportunity to do what i love to do, while also having the freedom to pour Christ into my team as well.
Basketball Experience: 3 years of coaching experience – 1 year as a varsity assistant at Columbia Central High School with the boys’ program; 2 years head coaching experience – Zion Christian Academy Varsity Girls’ Head Coach (1 year), Mt. Pleasant Varsity Girls’ Head Coach (current)
Personal Fact: Currently pursuing a teaching degree in math
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? STARS places an importance not only on developing the athletic skills of the athletics, but also developing the character of the athletes and I believe that is the most important part about coaching.
2024 CLUB YEAR: NORTH HUB COACHES 8TH GRADE & YOUNGER
Basketball Experience: Played high school; 5 years experience, Tampa Titans (high school boys 2 years), STARS (high school girls, 2nd grade winter league, 5th grade winter league)
Personal Fact: College degree in Exercise Science and second degree in Physical Therapy.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I believe in their model of “More Than”. I think being a coach is not just preparing for on court battles but off the court as well.
Basketball Experience: Played high school, some college, travel army-post team and some semi-pro; Coached with NYBA (1 year) and personal training (2 years)
Personal Fact: 4 year-old daughter and served 8 years in the U.S. Army
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I coach with STARS because not only do I love to coach and impact lives, I love the fact that they include doing so based on the Word of God and looking to implant the truth of Jesus Christ.
Basketball Experience: Played in college; this is 3rd year coaching with STARS
Personal Fact: I am a family man. I enjoy coaching basketball, physical fitness and spending time with my family and coaching my 12 year old son, Tyson.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I want to use basketball as a vessel to impact kids not only in their journey through sports and the triumphs and tribulations of the game but in life as well. STARS gives me the opportunity to exemplify the “MORE THAN” culture of leading by example in all that I say and do.
Basketball Experience: Played college; More than 5 years of coaching MS and HS Boys. Previously coached at Lighthouse Christian School as Middle School Boys’ Head Coach and Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach. Also, spent time at Brentwood High School as Head Freshman and Varsity Assistant Coach at Whites Creek High School. Currently Player Development Coach at Trevecca Nazarene University
Personal Fact: I have an associate degree in psychology, but in the process of finishing Bachelor’s degree.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? To impact young men in a positive outlook on and off the court. One day that orange ball will stop bouncing and what will your legacy look like with out the ball.
Basketball Experience: High school and college; Springfield High School Varsity Boys’ Head Coach (current), former Whites Creek High School JV Boys’ Head Coach and Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach, former Lebanon High School Varsity Boys’ Assistant Coach, EAB Gold/3SSB (1 year)
Personal Fact: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from University of Miami (FL)
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? STARS is a great organization that connects basketball to faith and leadership. STARS represents the core values of faith, family, and sports.
Basketball Experience: More than 20 years coaching travel, MS, and HS
Personal Fact:I have 2 Masters degrees – one in Education and one in Educational Leadership. I am happily married with 4 beautiful daughters. Two of which are college age, one in HS, and one in MS.
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? Want to be a part of a special program. This is a high-level basketball program with the spiritual added bonus
Basketball Experience: Player- Belmont University, Nashville, TN (2010-2015) Assistant Coach- Trevecca Nazarene University, Nashville, TN (2018-2020); Assistant Coach- Goodpasture Christian School, Madison, TN (2020-Present); Head Coach- STARS (2014-Present)
Personal Fact: B.B.A in Finance and Marketing Belmont University (2015), Wife- Kimber Chamberlain
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I love being around the game of basketball and the mission of Stars to share and show the gospel of Jesus. I believe through Stars I am able to help build a strong foundation of hoops and Christ and hopefully be a good example of how Christianity and sports can be brought together.
Basketball Experience: Played high school, some college, travel army-post team and some semi-pro; Coached with NYBA (1 year) and personal training (2 years)
Personal Fact: 4 year-old daughter and served 8 years in the U.S. Army
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? I coach with STARS because not only do I love to coach and impact lives, I love the fact that they include doing so based on the Word of God and looking to implant the truth of Jesus Christ.
Basketball Experience: 4 years HS at Nashville Christian School, college, Freshmen Girls’ Coach at Father Ryan HS (2 years – current)
Personal Fact: Oldest of 4 siblings
Why do you choose to coach youth basketball? To not only teach girls about basketball but to also teach them life lessons and helping them grow their faith