Ralph Stout's revered career in officiating began in 1946 and spanned an impressive 47 years, concluding in 1993. Born on April 14, 1921, Stout dedicated nearly half a century to the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), marking his name as a cornerstone in the realm of high school sports officiating in Tennessee. His unwavering dedication to the craft led to his well-deserved induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1984, underlining his significant contributions and service to high school athletics.

During his tenure with TSSAA, Stout officiated a myriad of football playoff games, TSSAA All-Star games, and was notably one of the officials at a TSSAA Boys State Basketball Tournament. His excellence on the field was not confined to the high school level alone. Stout also made significant contributions as an official in the collegiate sports world, where he officiated in the Ohio Valley Conference and the Southeastern Conference, showcasing his versatile officiating capabilities across various levels of athletic competition.

In addition to his on-field duties, Stout also served as the TSSAA Assigning Officer for the Region I Football Officials Association for eight years and held the position of TSSAA Supervisor for the Tri-Cities Basketball Officials Association for another eight years. These roles exemplified his leadership and commitment to ensuring the highest standards of sports officiating were met in TSSAA athletics.

Stout's officiating prowess extended beyond the borders of Tennessee and collegiate sports. In 1974, he was one of the officials selected for a series of basketball games between the United States and the Soviet Union—an honor that highlighted his exceptional skills and reputation on an international stage. Furthermore, he officiated NAIA Regional and National Tournament Games, as well as NCAA Invitational Games, further solidifying his legacy as a distinguished figure in sports officiating.

Ralph Stout's exceptional career, marked by decades of dedication, excellence, and influential roles within the TSSAA and beyond, rightfully earned him a place in the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1984, celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire future generations in the world of sports officiating.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1984
Category: Official