Columbus baseball coach who led program to six state titles resigns
Steve Smith, who led the Calvary Christian School baseball program to six state championships in 13 seasons as head coach, has resigned that position and as athletics director at the private school in Columbus.
Calvary Christian said in a news release that the decision was made “after much prayer and consideration . . . due to personal reasons.”
“We want to thank Coach Smith for his leadership, dedication, and the countless ways he has invested in our students, coaches, and school community,” the news release says. “His impact on CCS athletics will be felt for years to come, including building a successful baseball program and amassing 300 career wins. We are thankful for his commitment to our students and families.
“Please join us in praying for Steve and his family as they begin this next chapter. We wish them nothing but the very best moving forward.”
Interim AD for Calvary Christian
The school announced former Columbus State University athletics director Jay Sparks as Calvary Christian’s interim AD.
“We are blessed to have someone with Coach Sparks’ experience to step in and lead our Athletic Department at this time,” Calvary Christian head of school Jonathan Norton said in the news release. “His heart for Calvary and work ethic will allow us to have a seamless transition as we move forward into the 2026/27 school year.”
Sparks returns to CCS after previously serving as the school’s boys basketball program director, varsity coach and interim AD.
“With more than 30 years of coaching experience, he brings extensive leadership and athletic expertise to Calvary,” the news release says.
Part of Sparks’ experience was as head coach of the women’s basketball program at CSU, where Norton was one of his assistant coaches for seven seasons, including two NCAA Division II Final Four appearances (2000 and 2001).
Sparks was inducted into the Chattahoochee Valley Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.
Interim head baseball coach for Calvary Christian
Calvary Christian also announced Carson Loyd as the school’s assistant AD and interim head baseball coach.
“With 17 years of experience coaching and training athletes, including eight seasons at CCS, Coach Loyd brings strong leadership and a deep commitment to Calvary athletics,” the news release says. “He has played an integral role in the Varsity Softball program, Middle School Baseball program, and as an assistant coach for the Varsity Baseball team. Coach Loyd is looking forward to continuing the tradition of excellence and helping lead Calvary Baseball into its next chapter.”
