2020-21 Lady Pilots’ one year wiser, confident, says Smith

Coach Leonard Smith, Sr. begins his 21st year coaching in the Fulton County School System, and 16 years at the helm as head coach for the Fulton County High School Lady Pilots. Lavetta Lockridge is assisting Smith this year.

The team consists of 10 returning players and two new Eighth Grade players, including Seniors, Callie Coulson and JaMya Pierce; Juniors, Charmaine Buntyn, De’Ayria. Kinney, and Ta’Kyiah McNeal; Sophomores, Rhiannon Eakes, Emily Scott, and McKenzie Smith; Freshmen, JaVona. Davis and Kamesha Windham; and Eighth Graders, JaMesha Brown and Hannah Murphy.

Smith will look to Callie Coulson to take on a leadership role as she is strong hearted and vocal on and off the court.

“My best free throw shooter is JaVona Davis, and three-point shooter will be De’Ayria Kinney. I see Callie Coulson as the best ball handler, and JaVona Davis for Best Defense,” Smith said.

Looking at the schedule, Smith believes Carlisle County will be the strongest opponent.

“They have won our District so long to beat them would let us know we have improved so much,” Smith said.

When asked what he saw as the team’s biggest assets from the coming season he stated, “Last year we were a very young team and to have everyone back being together for a year and knowing my system now is a plus. Playing up to our potential and playing with confidence at every game.”

Goals Smith has for this year include winning more games than last year, and to make it to the District Championship game.

“It’s been a tough year for everyone with this virus. Just to make it through the season healthy and no one getting sick is a win for us,” Smith said.