Charlotte Peay named Oakland softball coach

Oakland High School didn't go far to find its new softball coach.

Across the street, to be exact.

Oakland Middle softball coach Charlotte Peay has been named the Lady Patriots coach.

"I'm super excited to have opportunity," said Peay, a 1993 Oakland graduate. "I'm honored to be even thought about for a high-profile job as Oakland High. The majority of those girls come from my program at Oakland Middle. I'm excited to get back with them and expand on the relationships we built in middle school."

Peay's ties to the school and her record at Oakland Middle (six county championships) were huge factors in the hire.

"Charlotte comes from the Oakland family, and she's been a competitor as a player at every level," said Oakland principal John Marshall. "Her record speaks for itself at Oakland Middle the last (eight) years. She's a great fit, and we're excited to welcome her back."

Peay takes over for Luke Sheppard, who was let go following the 2018 season.

Peay played basketball and softball at Oakland before becoming one of the first four-year scholarship players at MTSU.

She will be bringing another former OHS softball standout with her as Valanna Lyons, who was an assistant under Peay this season at Oakland Middle, will help her with the Lady Patriots.

Lyons was an assistant at Siegel under her uncle, Perry Lyons, prior to coaching at Oakland Middle.

Peay believes past relationships with current Lady Patriot players will help make the transition a smooth one.

"They kind of know my philosophy," Peay said. "I love to teach and coach. I love my kids. They know where I stand. It's being an athlete second, student first. It's about hard work and dedication and being good teammates.

"They know me personally, and also the parents. That’s an edge for me. It's been a while since I’ve had some of them, but I've still kept contact with a majority of them."

Oakland High went 16-17 (4-8 in 7-AAA) this season.

Reach Cecil Joyce at cjoyce@dnj.com or 615-278-5168 and on Twitter @Cecil_Joyce.