Shelbyville Central girls basketball coach Chad Spencer. Photo provided by Bedford County Schools.
SHAWN DIGIANFELICE
Sports Writer
Shelbyville Central High School has announced the hiring of Chad Spencer as the new head coach of the Golden Eaglettes girls basketball program, bringing a proven winner and familiar face back to the community.
Spencer, a U.S. Army veteran, most recently served as head coach at Moore County High School where he guided his team to a TSSAA State Runner-Up finish in 2024 and a state quarterfinal appearance in 2025. Spencer also served as head girls basketball coach at Cascade High School from 2007-2015.
His teams have consistently competed at a high level, earning multiple district and region championships while building a reputation for disciplined, defense-oriented play. In recognition of his success, Spencer was named the 2024 Basketball Coaches Association of Tennessee Pat Summitt Coach of the Year and has collected numerous district and region coach of the year honors throughout his career.
Spencer also brings collegiate experience, having worked on staff for Matt Insell at the University of Mississippi, where he contributed to scouting, film analysis, game planning and player development at the SEC Division I level.
A graduate of Shelbyville Central, Spencer is no stranger to Eagle Nation. He previously served as an assistant coach during one of the program’s most successful stretches, which included four TSSAA state championships.
“I am honored to return to Shelbyville Central and lead the Golden Eaglettes program,” Spencer said. “We’re going to focus on building a strong culture centered on trust, discipline and a team-first mindset. That starts with daily habits — how we practice, communicate and support each other — while also striving for excellence in the classroom.”
Spencer emphasized developing well-rounded student-athletes as a core priority.
“On the court, it’s about fundamentals and understanding the game,” he said. “Off the court, it’s about accountability, leadership and making good choices. We want our players to leave this program better prepared for life.”
Shelbyville Central principal Charlie Pope expressed strong enthusiasm for the hire.
“We are excited to welcome Coach Spencer back home,” Pope said. “He’s a proven winner with deep roots in this community. From his early days working alongside Rick Insell to his success at multiple stops, he has demonstrated a commitment to excellence on the court, in the classroom and in the community. We’re fortunate to have him and his wife, Scarlett, join Eagle Nation.”
Looking ahead, Spencer said fans can expect a hard-nosed, unified team.
“Players, parents and fans can expect a tough, disciplined group that plays hard and competes every game,” he said. “We’re going to work, improve and represent Shelbyville the right way. We’re building something special, and we hope the community will come out and support the Eaglettes this season.”
Spencer will teach physical education this fall.