News Summary

In a thrilling turn of events, Ed Young has been announced as the new head coach for the Smithfield Packers boys basketball team for the upcoming 2025-26 season. With an impressive coaching history and a focus on player development, Young returns to high school basketball after a year off, aiming to build on the program’s proud legacy and foster both sports skills and character in young athletes. Community excitement is building as the team prepares for their first game on December 2 against Lafayette.

Smithfield Welcomes Ed Young Back to the Basketball Court!

In a *thrilling* development for sports enthusiasts in Smithfield, Ed Young has been named the new head coach of the Smithfield Packers boys basketball team for the 2025-26 season. After taking a year off from coaching, it seems Young is ready to jump back into the action, bringing with him an impressive legacy and a wealth of experience in the world of high school basketball.

A Coaching Legend

Ed Young is no stranger to success. Recognized as one of the most successful coaches in Virginia High School League history, Young has a stellar coaching record of 517 wins and 297 losses over his 34-year career. His journey through coaching has seen him influence the game at various levels, including stints at schools like *Green Run High School* and *Norview High School*, along with brief coaching positions at the collegiate level. Young celebrated a highlight reel moment when he clinched the Group A state championship with the now-defunct Suffolk High Red Raiders back in 1987, marking a significant achievement early in his career.

Broadcasting to Basketball

Last season, Young took a break from the court to focus on *observing* the sport from a different angle as a broadcaster on the NFHS Network. This experience allowed him to stay connected with the game while he contemplated his next steps. But now, he’s returned with vigor and zeal, ready to lead the Smithfield Packers into a new and exciting season!

Community Focus

Smithfield’s Athletic Director, Patrick Dulin, confirmed Young’s hiring, expressing excitement about what this means for the local basketball community. Dulin described Young as not only a talented coach but also a *respected teacher of the game*. His coaching philosophy emphasizes *development* and *teaching*, prioritizing the growth of his players both on and off the court. As Smithfield prepares for the new season, Young’s presence is sure to invigorate the program, which has a proud history of success, including a VHSL Class 4 state title in 2021.

Building on a Winning Tradition

The upcoming season poses its own unique challenges for Young, as the Packers graduated eight seniors from the previous squad. However, with a younger roster stepping up and Young’s *hard-nosed, old-school coaching style*, there is a lot of potential for continued success. His focus is not solely on basketball skills; he aims to foster character and academic achievement among his players. It’s about building a solid *foundation* for these athletes that extends beyond just the game.

Looking Ahead

The Smithfield basketball program has an exciting season ahead, with its first district game scheduled for December 2 in Williamsburg against Lafayette. As the community rallies behind their team, fans can look forward to a season filled with energy, development, and, ultimately, the hopes of more victories. With Young at the helm, expectations are high, and the support of the community will play a vital role in their journey.

As Ed Young settles back into his role as head coach, the Smithfield Packers are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting season. The community is buzzing with anticipation and hope as they look forward to watching this seasoned coach work his magic on the court again. Let’s *cheer them on* as they kick off another thrilling chapter in their basketball story!

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