By Katie Northcott, News Director
On Friday, March 20, Bedford County Schools announced the hiring of Chad Spencer as head coach of the Golden Eaglettes basketball program at Shelbyville Central High School.
Find more details in the press release below.
Shelbyville Central High School is proud to announce the hiring of Chad Spencer as the new head coach of the Golden Eaglettes basketball program. A championship-level coach and U.S. Army veteran, Spencer brings a strong record of success, leadership and program development to the role.
Spencer most recently served as head girls basketball coach at Moore County High School, where he led his team to a TSSAA State Runner-Up finish in 2024 and a State Quarterfinal appearance in 2025. His teams have earned multiple district and region championships, and he has built a reputation for developing disciplined, defense-focused programs and student-athletes who excel on and off the court.
In recognition of his accomplishments, Spencer was named the 2024 Basketball Coaches Association of Tennessee Pat Summitt Coach of the Year and has received numerous district and region coach of the year honors throughout his career.
Spencer also brings valuable collegiate experience, having served on the coaching staff at the University of Mississippi, where he contributed to opponent scouting, film analysis, game planning and player development at the SEC Division I level.
A familiar face to the Shelbyville community, Spencer is a graduate of Shelbyville Central High School and previously served as an assistant coach for the Eagles during a historic run that included four TSSAA state championships.
“I am honored to return to Shelbyville Central and lead the Golden Eaglettes program,” said Spencer. “I am looking forward to building a strong culture and getting to work with the players, teachers and administrators every day. There is a lot of talent and potential in this program, and I am excited to help these players grow, compete and take pride in what they are going to build together. I truly believe we are going to do something special, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Spencer’s first day with the team is yet to be determined but will be soon, according to SCHS Principal Charlie Pope. As far as the classroom, Pope shared that Spencer will be teaching Physical Education starting next August.
When asked about his top priorities, Spencer responded, “The biggest priorities are establishing trust, setting a clear standard, and creating a team-first mindset. I want our identity to be built on toughness, discipline and unselfish play. That starts with daily habits — how we practice, how we communicate and how we support each other. I also want our players to excel in the classroom. If we can consistently do those things, we will build a culture that our players, parents, teachers and community will be proud of.”
“Also, my goal is to develop complete student-athletes,” shared Spencer. He explained this as fundamentals on the court in effort and understanding the game, and added, “Off the court, it’s about accountability, leadership and making good choices. When our players leave this program, I want them to be better prepared for life.”
Shelbyville Central High School Principal Charlie Pope expressed enthusiasm about the new hire.
“I am excited to welcome Coach Spencer back home to SCHS! He is a proven winner from his early days as a young assistant with Coach Rick Insell and including stops at Liberty Middle, Cascade High School and most recently Moore County. He is a high-character guy, a hard worker and he believes deeply in student success on the court, the classroom and the community. We are lucky to have both Chad and his wife Scarlett join Eagle Nation!”
What can the community expect from the team this season?
“Players, parents and fans can expect a tough, disciplined team that plays hard, plays together and competes every game,” commented Spencer. “We are going to work, improve and represent Shelbyville the right way. We are building something special here, and I hope our community will come out and support the Eaglettes this season.”
In addition to his coaching experience, Spencer has served in the United States Army and the Tennessee Army National Guard. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Middle Tennessee State University and an associate degree from Motlow State Community College.
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