Stratford has turned to Lawrence Haywood Jr. to lead its boys basketball program.
Haywood replaces the school’s former coach and current athletic director Romie Reed, who was hired in 2015 and led the Spartans to the Class AA state semifinals three years later.
Executive principal Dr. Michael Pratt said Haywood’s experience will benefit Stratford as it works “toward becoming the top high school in Tennessee.”
Haywood has served as an assistant coach at Antioch, MLK Magnet and Maplewood and earned MNPS Middle School and Freshman Coach of the Year three times.
“Coach Haywood is a welcomed addition to our dedicated staff,” Pratt said in a release from Metro Nashville Public Schools. “His keen knowledge of basketball and connection to the community will empower Spartan boys basketball to compete and dominate at the highest level.”
Stratford finished 2-14 last season and fell to LEAD Academy in the District 8-2A tournament play-in game. Haywood is aiming to help the Spartans find success on and off the court.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside my Stratford family – the players, staff, alumni and fans,” Haywood said. “I am firmly committed to helping the student-athletes find their purpose and prepare to excel not only on the court but also in college, career and life. Let’s go, Spartans.”
