DUDLEY — The Southern Wayne Saints are ushering in a new era of men’s basketball with the hiring of Head Coach Austin Hood, a familiar face who brings both passion and a deep connection to the program.
A native of Grantham, Hood is no stranger to Southern Wayne High School. He attended Southern Wayne in the early 2000s and proudly represented the Saints on the basketball court throughout all four years of his high school career. Now, he returns to lead the very program that helped shape him as a player.
Coach Hood’s philosophy centers on old-school basketball, emphasizing tough defense, relentless effort, and physical play. He wants his teams to establish a strong defensive presence, fight for loose balls, and play with a fast-paced, hard-nosed style that keeps opponents on their heels.
Following the first season of conference realignment last year, Southern Wayne faces a set of challenges in one of the area’s most competitive leagues. The Saints will compete in the Big East 5A/6A Conference alongside C.B. Aycock, Fike, Hunt, Northern Nash, Rocky Mount, and Southern Nash.
Despite the increased level of competition, Hood remains confident in his team’s ability to compete.
“We can compete with these teams no matter the circumstances,” Hood said.
To prepare his players for the rigorous conference schedule, Hood plans to challenge the Saints early with a demanding non-conference slate.
“What will prepare us is playing a tough non-conference schedule,” Hood said. “That will help get us ready for the competition we’ll face in conference play.”
As he begins building the program, Hood’s primary goal is to establish consistency and toughness throughout the season. He wants his players to work hard every day while developing into a physically and mentally resilient group.
“My goal is for us to build a steady flow of production every single day, regardless of the outcome,” Hood said.
Since accepting the position, Hood has been overwhelmed by the support he has received from the Southern Wayne community. He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from Saints alumni, who have embraced him with encouragement and respect as he begins this new chapter.
For Saints fans eager to see the future of the program, Hood’s message is simple:
“Trust the process, regardless of the lows and the highs,” he said. “Continue to support the team and the school.”
The Southern Wayne Saints will begin their season this winter as Coach Hood and his staff embark on their first campaign leading the program. With a proud alumnus now at the helm, excitement is building around what the future holds for Saints basketball.
Everyone at the Mount Olive Tribune wishes Coach Hood, his staff, and the Southern Wayne Saints the best of luck as they begin this exciting new era of men’s basketball.
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