Pickens football hires River Bluff assistant James Reynolds as new head coach

Pickens has hired James Reynolds as its next football coach, replacing Chad Smith, who stepped down following the season.

“Coach Reynolds has a high level of energy and drive, and a strong ethical fiber that aligns with our vision for the program. He will be the kind of leader and mentor that will help our student-athletes thrive. We are excited for the next chapter of Pickens football under Coach Reynolds,” said Pickens principal Jeff Duncan in a statement on the school's website.

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Reynolds takes over the Blue Flame program after being the assistant head coach at River Bluff in Lexington County. Prior to that, he was defensive coordinator at Irmo. He has three seasons of head coaching experience, leading the Ben Lippen School to three consecutive SCISA playoff appearances and an overall record of 12-20.

Reynolds has deep roots in South Carolina, mainly in the Midlands, having graduated from the Hammond School in Columbia and having played cornerback and receiver for The Citadel football team and also was on the track & field team. Prior to Ben Lippen, Reynolds served as the defensive coordinator at Westwood.

Pickens went 4-6 last season and hasn't made the SCHSL playoffs since 2018.

This article originally appeared on Anderson Independent Mail: SC high school football: Pickens hires James Reynolds as next coach