“I want to first say that I had a great experience teaching and coaching in Graves County, and this move has nothing to do with either,” Birdsong said. “While at Graves, I had the opportunity to coach some amazing young men, as well as work with some very talented teachers. I feel like, from a basketball standpoint, we did some good thing during my tenure. We were able to add two more regional titles to the program, which I am very proud of.”
Birdsong has spent the past seven seasons at Graves County. Under Birdsong, the Eagles went 169-62, winning six 3rd District Championships (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013 & 2014) and two 1st Region Championships (2009, 2013). They also finished as 1st Region runners-up in 2008 and 2010.
Prior to coming to Graves, Birdsong spent eight seasons at Calloway County, helping lead the Lakers to 150 wins and the school’s only regional championship (2003). He said the decision to return to Calloway was a family one.
“This decision is about way more than just basketball for me,” Birdsong explained. “My daughter starts middle school there in the fall, and I’m looking forward to seeing her on a daily basis. This was big for me, because I’ve missed a lot of things over the last few years. My family has made a tremendous sacrifice for me to teach and coach in Graves County, and for that I am very thankful.”
Birdsong takes over for Bruce Lane, who stepped down as Calloway County head coach in April. Lane went 123-88 and won two fourth district championships during his seven seasons as head coach. Lane was Birdsong’s top assistant during his first stint with the Lakers.
“I would like to sincerely thank all the players, and my coaches, that I worked with at Graves County along with the students, administration, faculty, staff, and fans,” Birdsong said. “They all help make Graves County a special place. Lastly, I’m very excited about the opportunity to go back to a place I love and I look forward to getting started.”
