Tommy Owen, born on February 17, 1924, and passing away on August 24, 1993, dedicated 38 years of his life to education and coaching before his significant contributions were recognized by his 1998 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame. His career began remarkably at Amory High School in Mississippi, where he taught and coached from 1948 until 1953, demonstrating early on the dedication and passion that would define his career.

In 1953, Owen shifted his attention and commitment to Montgomery Bell Academy in Tennessee, where he stayed until 1986. During his tenure, he made a profound impact on the school's football program. Owen's teams accumulated an outstanding record of 276 wins, 112 losses, and 12 draws, a testament to his coaching prowess and ability to inspire young athletes. His leadership on the football field earned his teams mythical state championships in the years 1955, 1967, and 1968, highlighting his successful strategy and coaching methods that placed him and his teams in the spotlight.

Owen's connection to football extended beyond the high school playing field. He played the sport at Vanderbilt University, where he later returned to serve as an assistant football coach for a period. This experience broadened his understanding and approach to the game, enriching his coaching techniques. Beyond coaching, Owen contributed to the sports community through media, offering insightful football game analyses on the radio and in newspapers, primarily focusing on Vanderbilt football games.

His induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame was not only a recognition of these accomplishments but also an acknowledgment of his service and contributions to high school sports within Tennessee. Tommy Owen's legacy as a teacher, coach, and mentor continues to inspire those in TSSAA and the larger sports community, commemorated through his Hall of Fame recognition.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1998
Category: Coach