Posted: Apr 21, 2026

Hometown Edge: Richmond Native Tia Byrd Tapped to Lead Women’s Basketball Program

SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA — A bold new chapter is underway as Tia Byrd has been named Head Women's Basketball Coach, bringing with her a dynamic blend of energy, experience, and a proven commitment to student-athlete development both on and off the court.

Byrd arrives after serving as an Assistant Coach at Bridgewater College since August 2024, where she quickly established herself as a cornerstone of the program's daily operations. Her impact spanned every facet of the program—from designing and implementing high-level practice plans to delivering position-specific instruction that elevated individual and team performance. Byrd played an integral role in game preparation, developing strategic game plans, breaking down film, and producing detailed scouting reports that gave her teams a competitive edge.

A tireless worker and relationship-builder, Byrd was deeply involved in player development, working closely with student-athletes to refine their skills and maximize their potential. She also contributed to recruiting efforts, team travel coordination, equipment management, and the program's growing social media presence, while helping organize camps and clinics that strengthened community engagement.

Prior to her time at Bridgewater, Byrd served as an Assistant Coach at Randolph College during the 2023–24 season. There, she took on significant leadership responsibilities, including serving as the program's recruiting coordinator while ensuring compliance with NCAA regulations. Byrd managed team travel logistics, oversaw equipment and apparel inventory, and spearheaded community service initiatives. She also handled all social media content creation, assisted with film breakdown and opponent scouting through Synergy, and served as the guards' skills coach, further sharpening her reputation as a developer of talent.

"Tia embodies everything we value in a leader—passion, preparation, and a relentless commitment to student-athlete success. Her ability to connect, develop, and inspire stood out immediately. With deep ties to the Richmond community and a proven track record across every level of the game, we are confident she will elevate our program and build something truly special," says Director of Athletics, Scott Newton.

Her coaching journey also includes impactful stops at TPLS Christian Academy in Richmond, where she contributed to practice planning, scouting, and game-day coaching, and with the FBC CE Havoc AAU program, where she emphasized player development, conditioning, and exposure opportunities for athletes aspiring to compete at the collegiate level.

Byrd's leadership foundation is rooted in her own playing career. A former student-athlete at Eastern Mennonite University and Frederick Community College, she understands firsthand the demands and rewards of competing at the collegiate level. She later served as the head varsity girls' basketball coach at King & Queen Central High School from 2019 to 2021, gaining valuable experience leading a program and mentoring young athletes.

Known for her relentless work ethic, attention to detail, and passion for empowering student-athletes, Byrd steps into the head coaching role poised to elevate the program's competitive standard while fostering a culture of accountability, growth, and excellence.