Kirkwood has appointed Ashley Peeler as its new girls basketball coach, entrusting the Memphis-born strategist with the task of building on a season that delivered a 14‑12 record and cemented the program’s recent rise in competitiveness.
Peeler’s basketball journey began at Austin Peay, where she appeared in 94 games over three seasons, averaging 12.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.4 assists. Her collegiate career was highlighted by three All‑State selections at Bartlett High School and a first‑team All‑Ohio Valley Conference honor as a junior.
Before joining Kirkwood, she served as an assistant coach at Mount Paran Christian School in Georgia, gaining experience that complemented her playing background and prepared her for a head‑coaching role.
The Cobras have cycled through coaches rapidly in recent years, with Peeler becoming the fourth head coach in four seasons. Her predecessor, Tenisha Lockridge, guided the team to its most wins in a single season during 2025‑26, while earlier stints under Chris Carney and Micah Rochester produced records of 6‑21 and 10‑15 respectively.
A New Era Begins
Peeler will now attempt to translate her on‑court pedigree into sustained success for the program, aiming to deepen the roster’s competitiveness and push past the Region 7‑4A quarterfinals where the team fell to Dickson County.
The appointment reflects the school’s confidence that Peeler’s blend of local roots, collegiate achievement and coaching experience can elevate the program’s profile and attract further talent.