The coaching carousel hit J.Z. George High School during the offseason as there will be five new coaches on staff this school year.
One coach, Doyle Ellett, an assistant in football, is in his second stint at the North Carrollton school. The other four coaches are in their first year. Also new to the school is Nathan Moncrief, who will not only serve as the athletic director but is also an assistant principal.
Moncrief didn’t have to travel far as he was at Carroll Academy last year. He was the high school baseball coach and elementary school principal. Before that, he coached at Kirk Academy.
“Mr. (Billy Joe) Ferguson called me about the opening they had at J.Z. George. I knew some of the people at the school, and I know it’s a good school and community,” said Moncrief. Ferguson is superintendent of the Carroll County School District.
Moncrief, 34, lives in Elliott, which is between Duck Hill and Grenada. He will have no coaching duties at J.Z. George.
“We want to build confidence in the athletic programs we have here. We want each team to feel like they can be successful,” added Moncrief. “Of course building the academic program and putting education first is a top priority. Athletics has its place. It can support and build character within the school. Athletics can boost the morale of the school.
“I truly look forward to this opportunity. I appreciate Mr. Ferguson for all he has done for me. I am learning so much from Ms. (Coretta) Green. I am learning about the rules and regulations in the public school system. I definitely learn something new every day.”
Returning to this year’s coaching staff is Ben Burton, who is back for his sixth year at the helm of the football team. He will also serve as the head track coach in the spring.
Ellett is back to assist with football. He was not at the school last year after coaching in 2017.
Douglas Butts is also a returning coach. He will assist with football, track and basketball.
LeQuell Allen is the new girls and boys basketball coach, and he is assisted by Genice Duren for the girls and Butts for the boys.
Michael Ellingburg will be the head baseball coach and assist with football. He is in his first year at the school. He will also assist in football.
Kendrick Williams is an assistant football and baseball coach. Jamie Tucker returns to coach girls fast-pitch softball.
