Tennessee Titans Name Creek Wood’s James Smith 2026 Girls Flag Football Coach of the Year
Dickson County School Won Inaugural TSSAA Class A State Championship in 2026
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Titans today announced that Creek Wood’s James Smith has been named their 2026 Girls Flag Football Coach of the Year. Smith led the Red Hawks to a 15-6 record this past year and won the inaugural Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) Class A Girls Flag State Championship.
The 2026 season marked Smith’s second as Creek Wood’s head coach after being named to the position in 2025, their first year as a program. Widely respected for his innovative game plans and preparation on both sides of the ball, Smith and the Red Hawks outscored opponents 68-12 on the final day of this year’s state tournament. Creek Wood’s defense also secured five interceptions in the championship game.
“Coach Smith is helping define what championship leadership looks like as girls flag football continues to grow across Tennessee,” said Titans Vice President of Cause Marketing, Josh Corey. “In just his second season leading Creek Wood, he has built a program rooted in preparation, resilience, and competitive excellence, and his team’s performance in the first sanctioned TSSAA Girls Flag Football State Championship reflects the standard he sets every day.
“More importantly, he is creating opportunities for young women to grow as athletes, leaders, and teammates. The Titans are proud to recognize Coach Smith as our 2026 Girls Flag Football Coach of the Year and celebrate a championship program the entire Creek Wood community can be proud of.”
Under Smith’s leadership, numerous Red Hawks have garnered interest from the collegiate level of girls flag, including defensive standout Avery Bratton, who committed to Cumberland University in Lebanon.
As part of his recognition, Smith receives a $2,500 grant from the Titans to support Creek Wood’s girls flag program. He will also be honored at a Titans home game later this fall.
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