Jordan Makes Business Decision on Fisk Athletics Hires

NASHVILLE (July 22, 2024)– With a bright smile, Fisk University Athletic Director Valencia Jordan told a crowd of over 100 people that her new vision for Fisk University Athletics is "Standing on Bulldog Business." Her first line of business was to introduce Jeremiah Crutcher as the men's head basketball coach and Marcelle "Mardy" Scales as the men's and women's track & field coach. It was a long process, but she felt she got it right.

"Consistency is the key to any program, and these two are the blueprint," said Jordan. "They are stressing education first and structure in their programs. That's music to my ears. Fisk Athletics just got a lot better with these hirings. The process to get the best hires was long but rewarding. We looked for individuals who would be great co-workers to their fellow coaches, represent the university well, and inspire student-athletes. I am excited for them to get to work."

Both hires bring strong local ties and proven track records to the Fisk University Athletics Department. Crutcher, a lifelong native of Nashville, attended Hunters Lane High School, where he starred and eventually went on to play his final two collegiate seasons at Tennessee State University.

Crutcher joins Fisk from Whites Creek High School in Nashville, where he made significant strides in transforming the basketball program. He took over the Whites Creek team in 2021 when it had logged no wins the prior season. Under his leadership, the team reached the Tennessee State Scholastics Athletic Association's Class AA semi-finals this past season.

"We will be in the community, and we will win," said Crutcher. "We will bring an exciting brand of basketball to Fisk. We will pack the gym for sure every night. I am excited to get started."

Scales is a former track star from Middle Tennessee State University. Scales has proven his ability to build successful programs from the ground up, most notably at Cumberland University. His achievements as a "program architect" made him a highly attractive hire for Fisk.

"I want to first thank The Man Upstairs for this opportunity. Track is a gateway sport, meaning that everyone wants to run faster, jump higher, and throw further. I am willing to help all the athletes on campus get better. We will be in the community for sure. Nashville and the surrounding communities will learn what Fisk Track & Field is about."

The press conference had members of the Fisk community, including Hall of Famers Renee Spencer and Jeff Groves. From the sports community, two-time high school football state championship head coach Maurice Fitzgerald and former NBA first-round draft pick Dontae Jones were in attendance. The enthusiastic crowd signaled what the new era in Fisk Athletics is all about.

"I know "Crutch" personally, and I have known of Mardy Scales for a very long time," said Fitzgerald. "What AD Jordan and Scott (Wallace) are doing over here now, we will reap some benefits soon. These hires are the seeds, and I am ready to watch this grow. Fisk is open for business."