This exciting development includes the introduction of boys and girls lacrosse programs as official school sanctioned TSSAA sports, along with a new leadership role in the golf program.
Steve Anderson - Boys Lacrosse Coach
Steve Anderson, an experienced lacrosse coach and former college lacrosse player at the Virginia Military Institute, will spearhead the boys lacrosse program. Anderson's history of coaching with the Houston Lacrosse Club since 2004 and his numerous leadership positions in Tennessee lacrosse shows his continued devotion to the sport. He is excited to get started with the team – now under the official GMSD Athletic umbrella. His teams have consistently excelled, including a 99-57 record since 2015, consistent state playoff appearances and a TSLA D1 Public School State Championship. Steve was the TSLA D1 Public School Coach of the Year in 2018.
Beyond the field, Anderson brings valuable experience from his previous career as a corporate executive and his service as an officer in the United States Marine Corps, where he honed his leadership skills. He is supported by his wife, Jill, of 34 years, and their two grown children: Tyler, who resides in South Carolina, and Helena, who lives in New Jersey.
Jeff Ross - Girls Lacrosse Coach
Jeff Ross is thrilled to join the Houston High School Athletic Department as the head coach of the girls lacrosse team. With a rich background in coaching and a history of success at the Houston Lacrosse Club, Ross is eager to contribute to the growth and success of the Women's Lacrosse program. He aims to bring a high level of intensity to the games, support players in their development, and ensure everyone has fun along the way.
Known for his tough, fast-paced coaching style, Ross emphasizes both competitive spirit and enjoyment. His philosophy centers around building a winning culture while ensuring that players have a positive experience on the field. Ross brings valuable experience from his previous career as an Air Traffic Controller and his service as a Non-Commissioned Officer in the United States Army.
Ross is supported by his wife, Danica, of 32 years, and their two grown children: Sarah, who resides in Memphis, and Sam, who lives in Alabama. His family and professional background bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the newly added girls lacrosse program at Houston High School.
Kevin Gaylord - Golf Program Coach
Kevin Gaylord will take charge of the golf program. He is returning to lead the golf team at Houston High School, bringing a wealth of experience and success from his previous tenure in the role from 2004 to 2008. During that time, Coach Gaylord led the team to two second-place finishes in the state and a Boys Team State Championship in 2007. Additionally, he coached both a boys and a girls individual state champion, highlighting his ability to develop top-tier talent.
Since 2003, Gaylord has been a dedicated member of the Houston High School faculty, teaching mathematics and serving as an assistant girls basketball coach from 2003 to 2008. Outside of his professional life, Coach Gaylord enjoys staying active with CrossFit, golfing, and spending quality time with his wife, Sonya.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome these outstanding coaches to our Houston High School family," said Coach Marvis Davis, Athletic Director at GMSD. "The addition of lacrosse to our sports offerings and the additional leadership in our golf program mark a significant expansion of our athletics department. We are confident that Coaches Ross, Anderson, and Gaylord will provide our students with exceptional coaching and mentorship, fostering both athletic excellence and personal growth."
The introduction of lacrosse is a part of GMSD's commitment to expanding athletic opportunities and fostering a diverse range of activities for students. The district looks forward to a successful inaugural season for the lacrosse teams and continued success for the golf program under Coach Gaylord's guidance.
For more information about the new coaches and the upcoming sports seasons, please contact Marvis Davis at [email protected].