Ashley Walker takes over Terrell Academy softball
After 17 years as head baseball coach, he is now adding the Terrell Academy softball team.
DAWSON – The Terrell Academy Lady Eagles will have a new leader at the helm when the next softball season begins, but it will be a familiar face. Defending state champion baseball coach Ashley Walker is stepping away from his duties with the Terrell Academy football team to take over the Lady Eagles softball program while continuing to coach the baseball team.
Walker replaces Coach Tim Mears, who is stepping down after four seasons to spend more time with his family during the summer, when high school softball teams prepare for the fall season.
“It’s just time to be a little more retired and have more free summer and family time,” Mears said. “I’ve had a lot of fun working with the players and coaches these last four seasons. The program is in a good place with some really good returning players. They are going to be fun to watch next year.”
Walker has been at the helm of the Terrell Academy baseball program for 17 years, leading the team to the GIAA state championship in 2024. He has also served as an assistant coach for the Eagle football team under Coach Bill Murdock for the past 17 years. Now, he will step away from football to focus on leading both the baseball and softball programs.
“I have served as an assistant for 17 years, and Coach Murdock has built an extremely talented staff, so there’s no doubt that any of those guys can slide into my previous role and continue moving forward,” Walker said.
While he will bring his own leadership style, Walker doesn’t anticipate making major changes, as he believes the program is already on the right path. His focus will be on building upon the foundation Mears and his team have established.
“The main priorities are going to be to build on the already existing talent and culture of our Lady Eagles softball team,” Walker said. “We also intend to work on increasing the level of interest among young girls who want to be a part of the program and growing the number of players involved in softball—from our varsity level all the way down to our Little Eagles.”
Walker sees his role as helping the team continue to develop while offering a fresh perspective.
“Other than just your normal transition from one coach to the next, the core talent and abilities are there,” he said. “My job is to help the girls improve their skills, shape the team’s identity, and bring a different voice and hopefully a different perspective to the game.”
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