Today, April 11, 2025, is the 100th anniversary of the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association. On this day, 100 years ago, several principals and superintendents adopted a constitution and bylaws at the Tennessee State Teachers Association meeting. This effort was led by G.C. Carney, principal of Nashville Central High School, and A.J. Smith, superintendent of the Clarksville School System. The organization aimed to agree upon principles for interscholastic competition that each administration would enforce to keep education-based athletics in its proper perspective while attempting to foster fair competition. Those fundamental principles are the organization's foundation and still ring true today.
As you would on any birthday, I encourage you to take some time and reflect. What are some of your fondest memories as a coach or administrator? What memories do you cherish from your days as a student athlete? When were you inspired by those that you lead? When were you inspired by those who have led you? What experiences and relationships have kept you coming back during difficult times? What is a story from your school community that could inspire those who wear the uniform and would still ring true in the hearts of those who cheer from the stands?
On this one-hundredth anniversary of the organization, please take some time to think about those who got you where you are today, the student athletes who have kept you there, and those you have yet to meet. Your influence is far-reaching. The ripple effect that you will have and already have had on the next generation is something to be proud of and to build on.
We also encourage you to review one of the country's most extensive collections of interscholastic athletics history.
Here, you can walk down memory lane for your school community and reflect on some moments you may remember. We want to build on the robust history of the schools that founded the organization. You can also contribute to this collection by submitting information from schools in your area using the link below.
Current and Former Member Schools
It may be a little cliché, but we all stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. Let’s be intentional in thanking those who have carved our path and purposeful in contributing to memorializing the history of your respected school community. While we’re at it, let’s be thankful for the influence that education-based athletics has had on our lives and committed to providing those same opportunities for future generations!
Happy Birthday TSSAA!
