Emily Downey named new head coach of Lady Jackets Basketball

Williamsburg Independent School officials announced Thursday that Emily Downey has been selected to be the new coach of the Lady Jackets Basketball Program.

Downey, who served as an assistant coach to Randy Crider for the Lady Jackets last season, has previously coached the elementary and middle school girls’ teams.

Downey has extensive experience on the court, playing for Hardin Valley Academy in Knoxville, Tennessee, reaching the regional semi-finals.

In addition, she played AAU basketball for the Tennessee Threat, advancing to the AAU state final four.

Downey played college basketball and soccer at the University of the Cumberlands.

Downey said her goals include building a solid feeder program for the varsity program and to build lasting relationships with the players.

“I am so blessed for this opportunity and can’t wait to continue to build with my girls,” Downey wrote on her Facebook page soon after the announcement was made.

Downey takes over a team that finished 8-19 last season, being eliminated in the first round of the 50^th District Tournament.

The position became available when Coach Randy Crider stepped down at the end of the season.

Downey will have multiple players returning next season.