photo courtesy of JMCSS
Tony Shutes, the longtime University School of Jackson head basketball coach has been recruited by Jackson-Madison County School System Superintendent Dr. Marlon King to restore the girls basketball program at the Jackson Central-Merry 6-12 campus. Shutes was named Director of Basketball Operations for girls basketball on Monday.
“The opportunity to be a part of something new and bring a successful program back is very exciting to me,” Shutes said. “Great things will happen. I have confidence that it will.”
A frequent recipient of regional and statewide awards, Shutes is among the most successful high school coaches in any sport. His resume includes 22 district titles and 10 state tournament appearances to go along with his 579 wins. Six of his former players have been named Ms. Basketball finalists. His longevity at the private school level, which spans 30 years, is a testament to his professionalism and consistency on the court.
“Coach Shutes brings instant credibility and a wealth of knowledge to the JCM campus,” said Superintendent Dr. Marlon King. “We are committed to adding strong talent and experience to support our students on all levels.”
Shutes is a native of Bells, TN and a Union University graduate. His move to JCM will reunite him with Rick Rudesill. The two head coaches assisted one other at USJ from 1991-1996.
“We sat on each other’s bench,” Coach Rudesill said. “I served as his assistant and he served as mine. We go way back. Teaming up with him again is a really neat thing.”