By CURTIS ROCKWELL/Sports Director
PASS CHRISTIAN — Pass Christian has yet another head coach in place.
Jessica Hayes was named by school administration as the new Lady Pirate head basketball coach on Monday.
According to a press release:
“Hayes brings more than a decade of experience in education and athletics, along with a strong background in player development, program leadership, and academic support for student-athletes. A graduate of William Carey University, she earned both a Bachelor of General Studies and a Master of Education with a secondary emphasis while competing as a collegiate women’s basketball student-athlete.
Throughout her career, Hayes has served in multiple coaching capacities across Mississippi and Alabama. Most recently, she has been a teacher and coach at (Mobile, Ala.)Baker High School, where she served as Assistant Varsity Girls Basketball Coach, Head JV Girls Coach, and Head Volleyball Coach. Her previous experience includes coaching roles at Pascagoula High School and Sacred Heart Catholic High School, where she led the varsity girls basketball program. “

Hayes replaces Caroline Lumpkin at the helm of the Lady Pirate ship. Lumpkin stepped down recently after three seasons to take a similar post at her alma mater, Pearl River Central.

One of the most productive players in PRC girls basketball program history, Lumpkin just wrapped up her third season at the helm of the Lady Pirates, where she went 26-58 overall in her first-ever head coaching job.

“I want to thank Coach Lumpkin for her time here at Pass Christian,” then PCHS Athletics Director Ricky Smith said, at the time of the move. “She came into the position with big shoes to fill and did an admirable job. I want to wish her well in her new endeavor. We have opened the position up and are currently taking applications. We will fill the position as soon as possible.”

Lumpkin took over for Greta Ainsworth, who retired after 14 years at Pass Christian High School as the girls’ head basketball coach leading the team 12 second round appearances in the state playoffs while winning six district championships.

Hayes will begin her new job soon.
“We are excited to welcome Coach Hayes to Pass Christian,” said Superintendent Dr. Carla Evers. “Her experience, passion for student-athletes, and commitment to excellence make her an outstanding fit for our district. We believe she will build strong relationships with our students and lead our girls basketball program with integrity, discipline, and pride.”