Head football coach Rusty Smith has made the decision to leave J.Z. George High School for Water Valley High School.
“This is strictly a family decision,” said Smith. “I live outside the Charleston area, and this will cut down on my drive time. We have twins, so it’s a busy schedule for my wife and myself. This decision had nothing to do with the kids at J.Z. George or money; it’s about my family.”
Smith spent the past three seasons at the helm of the Jaguar football program. He guided J.Z. George to a 7-4 overall record in 2022 and a 3-1 mark in Region 3-2A. They made it to the second round of the 2A playoffs where they dropped a 37-12 decision to Eupora. The Jags beat Coahoma County 28-26 in the first round.
In his three years, Smith compiled an overall record of 20-15. The Jaguars were 6-6 in 2020, advancing to the second round of the 2A playoffs. They defeated Pisgah 28-13 in the first round and fell 30-28 to East Union in the second round. In 2021, J.Z. George went 7-5 and again advanced to the second round of the playoffs, losing 56-12 to Charleston. They opened with a 44-22 win over Belmont in the first round.
Smith will be the offensive coordinator at Water Valley.
“I’ve learned so much the last three years,” he said. “I’ve changed my perspective during this time. I used to think it was all about the wins, but being a coach is more about molding and shaping these guys to be men. We were able to start an FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) program at the school.
“I went back and watched film from our games and saw where I could have made different calls in games. I realize I’m still learning, and these kids at J.Z. George have taught me so much.”
J.Z. George athletic director Michael “Slick” Hargett understands Smith’s decision.
“We will miss Coach Smith, but I can’t blame him for putting family first,” said Hargett. “We have started the interview process of looking for a new coach. We had at least 10 applicants for the job. We will narrow down that list and hopefully have someone in place soon.”
Hargett said he is still searching for a girls’ basketball coach. Johnta’ Hughes was dismissed near the end of the regular season.
