Preston Shuey has been named the new head coach of the Laurence Manning Academy baseball team, stepping into the role after the retirement of longtime mentor Barry Hatfield.
A Legacy of Success
Hatfield spent 31 years at the school, guiding the program to three state championships, including back‑to‑back titles in 2016 and 2017 and a further crown in 2022.
Shuey, a former standout player at Francis Marion University, spent five years as an assistant coach at East Clarendon High School before joining Laurence Manning.
A New Philosophy
Shuey emphasizes an aggressive offense and powerful hitting, a marked contrast to Hatfield’s focus on pitching and defense.
Expanding Leadership Across Sports
David Rankin has been appointed football head coach, bringing a track record of state titles and runner‑up finishes from multiple schools.
Patrick Anderson returns for his third season as boys basketball coach, having led the team to the semifinals last year.
Lisa Ard is back for her third year as girls basketball coach, looking to build on recent successes.
Buddy Truett will continue as softball coach, a program that has captured three consecutive state titles under his guidance.
Jay Atkins is stepping down as bowling head coach after steering the team to 12 state championships.
The reshuffling reflects a broader effort to sustain competitive athletics across the school’s diverse sports offerings.