Hullet Named JHS Basketball Coach
For the first time in six years, Jay High School will have a new boys basketball coach when the season starts in November. Hank Hullet was named the Royals’ head basketball coach, only the third coach since Clarence Smith. Hullet is a Milton High School graduate (class of 2000) and attended the University of West Florida. He has been coaching basketball for the last 13 years. Hullet was the head coach at his alma mater for seven years, before coaching as an assistant at Central last season, which will add a little more intrigue to the rivalry later this year.
“One great person replaces another great person,” Athletic Director Lance Youngblood said about the hire, referencing Hullet and his predecessor Jacob Jordan. “We look foward to the future of JHS Basketball,” Youngblood concluded.
When asked about why he wanted to come to Jay, Hullet says there are lots of reasons. “The first is the strong community support for Jay athletics. Next is quality and character of the students here.” Hullet believes in Jay. “I do believe there is an opportunity for the basketball program to grow and want to be a part of it.”
Hullet, who has had family members attend and graduate from JHS and live in Jay for as long as he can remember, stated that he has always loved the area. “I love the family atmosphere of the community and the character of the people here.”
When asked about what fans should expect this upcoming season, Hullet eluded to having a hard-noised defensive team. “One that is unselfish and plays hard every night.”
To Hullet, the role of being a basketball coach is more than just the game. It’s about teaching life lessons through the game of basketball. “I believe to have a successful program, you must emphasize defense and unselfishness. I want our players to leave the program with improved mental toughness and leadership qualities that will make them successful citizens.”