Ripley High School is proud to announce that Coach Erin Smith has been hired as the head Softball Coach and Athletic Director. Coach Smith began her career as a collegiate softball coach at Southwest TN Community College serving as an assistant to Coach Keith Gentry. After spending a year at Southwest and a semester at University of the Ozarks, Erin was tapped as the head coach at Coahoma Community College. Under Coach Smith’s leadership, the CCC Lady Tigers recorded the highest GPA in program history while building a competitive program. After deciding to move home, three years ago, Coach Smith has served her community by working at Ripley Power and Light Co. as the first female Purchasing Agent in the history of the company and as a Lauderdale County Commissioner.
Coach Smith is a graduate from Halls High School. She received her Associates degree from Dyersburg State Community College and her Bachelor's degree from Mid-Continent University. As an undergrad at Mid-Continent University, Coach Erin received postseason recognition as Trans-South Newcomer of the Year and All-Conference honors. Coach Smith holds a Masters in Sport Management from Missouri Baptist University.
Coach Smith looks forward to working to foster a positive and inclusive team culture that emphasizes both athletic excellence and personal growth. As athletic director she will work to organize community engagement and encourage local support to strengthen the bond between school and the community that will create a supportive environment that champions student success both on and off the field.
Go Tigers!