Stratford High School has a new leader on the gridiron, announcing the hiring of Jerald Cook as its head football coach on May 15. Cook, a seasoned veteran of West Tennessee coaching circles, steps in to replace Anthony Law, who was dismissed after three seasons at the helm.

Cook most recently served as a volunteer assistant at Melrose in 2024, but his resume is built on a strong foundation. From 2015 to 2022, he was the athletics director and head coach at Freedom Prep Academy, where he posted a 32-25 record and guided the team to four Class 2A playoff appearances. It's a track record of building programs from the ground up—experience that Stratford hopes will translate into a winning tradition.

Law's tenure ended after a 3-7 campaign in 2025, which included a Class 3A state playoff appearance that ended with a 42-21 loss to Fairview. Over three seasons, Law finished with a 13-21 overall record, leaving the Spartans in search of a fresh start.

Stratford principal Dr. Michael Pratt expressed confidence in the hire, stating in a school release: "Coach Cook understands greatness begins with character, hard work, and academic excellence. Through intentional mentorship, he will ensure the Spartan Football Program has the discipline to not just compete but dominate—winning in the classroom and on the field."

Cook is the fourth new football coach in Metro Nashville Public Schools over the past two months, joining Montario Hardesty (James Lawson), Jamaal Stewart (Hillsboro), and Nicholas Haddock (McGavock). It's a wave of fresh energy across the district, and Cook is eager to make his mark.

"When I started the program at Freedom Prep, there were a lot of challenges that went along with that," Cook told The Tennessean. "But here at Stratford, this program is well established. The school is vibrant and passionate. They just need someone to come in and establish a new culture."

Cook's connection to Nashville runs deep. A former college football player at Tennessee State University from 2004 to 2009, he already understands the community fabric. He also highlighted Stratford's STEM program—with its emphasis on math and science—as a major draw. "I understand Nashville and the community," Cook said. "I also did my research on Stratford, so I know how much they take pride on the academic side. Those are all the things I want to instill into this team, going into the 2026 season."

As the Spartans gear up for a new era, Cook's blend of experience, local ties, and focus on character development could be just the playbook they need to turn the tide.