La Tain McGhee's illustrious career as a dedicated official in high school athletics, spanning over several decades, culminated in his well-deserved induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2004. Born on October 12, 1925, McGhee began his journey with the TSSAA as an official in 1958, a role he passionately embraced for 27 years until 1985. During this period, he made significant contributions to high school sports across different associations. He started with the Big Ten Football Conference and basketball from 1958 to 1966, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to fostering young athletes' talents.

McGhee's dedication saw him transition to the Tri-State Football and Basketball Association from 1967 to 1970 before finally serving as a Knoxville official from 1971 to 1985. His extensive experience on the field was matched by his leadership abilities off it. From 1975 to 1983, he led as the President of the Knoxville Football Officials’ Association for eight years, showcasing his leadership and commitment to improving the standard of officiating in Tennessee.

After retiring from active officiating, McGhee did not step away from his love for the game or his service to the TSSAA. Instead, he took on the role of TSSAA Supervisor for Knoxville Football from 1986, continuing to influence and mentor upcoming officials.

Throughout his career, McGhee's contributions were recognized with several awards, including the Ed Harris Memorial Award in 1980 for his officiating achievements in Knoxville, and notably, he was a recipient of the TSSAA Distinguished Service Recognition Award. His legacy was further cemented with inductions into multiple halls of fame, including the Knoxville Football Officials’ Association Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Greater Knoxville Sports Corporation Hall of Fame in 1995.

La Tain McGhee's journey through the world of high school athletics, marked by dedication, leadership, and recognition, underscores the remarkable impact he had on the sporting community in Tennessee. His 2004 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame thus not only honors his service as an official but celebrates a lifelong commitment to the betterment of high school sports.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2004
Category: Official