Flowery Branch High announced Heath Kennedy will become the school's next head baseball coach, pending board approval, in a press release sent Tuesday.
Kennedy replaces longtime coach Scott Myers, who had coached the Falcons for 11 years, including the last six as head coach.
Kennedy boasts head coaching experience from Winder-Barrow High, Hebron Christian, Elbert County and Prince Avenue Christian. The coach led Hebron Christian to a state championship in 2011, and holds a career record of 206-89 over the course of 10 years.
In the release, Kennedy said: “I’m extremely honored and excited about this outstanding opportunity to both teach and coach at Flowery Branch. I want to thank Principal Dr. Carter, Athletic Director Jimmy Lawler, and the community for allowing me to become a part of The Branch Tradition. I look forward to continuing the tradition of developing young men in the community, the classroom, and in competition. I am a passionate coach who seeks to invest in young people by utilizing the game of baseball to build character. But at the same time, I have a desire to compete at the highest level possible. We will commit to building a team based on fundamental baseball, situations, and of course individual development to be an advocate for those who aspire to play at the next level.”
This past season, Flowery Branch finished 9-16-1 and missed the Class AAAAA playoffs. Kennedy has earned four region championships throughout his 10-year head coaching career, and has been voted Region Coach of the Year three times. He was named the Georgia Dugout Club Coach of the Year in 2011.
The coach said he is looking forward to meeting his new team as soon as possible. Kennedy said he will likely bring in at least a couple more fresh faces to fill out the coaching staff.
"From what I understand, the players are hungry to compete," said Kennedy. "I'm a real passionate guy, a blue-collar person who wants to get to work."
Kennedy has one daughter, 9-year-old Hannah Grace, and is married to his wife, April.