Clay Crump has been tabbed to lead Gilmer High School’s boys basketball program.
GHS announced the hire in an April 3 press release and noted Crump “brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of success and a deep commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the court.”
“We are excited to welcome a coach who will build a program rooted in discipline, relationships and high expectations — on and off the court,” said GHS athletic director Matt Johnson. “We believe our student-athletes are in great hands.”
Crump is a 27-year coaching veteran and was born in Thomasville. He arrives in Gilmer after previous coaching stops at Alpharetta, Lakeside-DeKalb, Harrison and Eagle’s Landing. During his time at Eagle’s Landing, he led the Golden Eagles to the 2013 Class 4A state championship.
“After being in metro my whole career, I really wanted to experience more of a small town where there’s one community school like I grew up around,” Crump said. “When I was in high school, a guy named Ed Pilcher took over (the football program) when I was a freshman at Thomas County Central. They were 1-9 the year before and then he won three state titles in my four years in high school, which was just incredible.
“I chose to play basketball, but I was able to see from that side how much a county school can mean to the community, and I would love to experience that. It’s just different in metro. There are a lot of good things, but they don’t have that community feel as much like Ellijay would have.”
In addition to a state title, Crump has guided three teams to the Final Four and won multiple region championships, “while consistently elevating the performance and culture of each program he has led,” the release stated.
“His commitment to excellence in basketball, academics and character development aligns perfectly with our school’s values. We are confident that he will help elevate our boys’ basketball program and also our school,” said GHS principal Tiffany Boyette.
Crump will oversee all aspects of the boys basketball program at GHS and Clear Creek Middle School. He plans to meet with players and parents in the coming weeks.