E. B. "Red" Etter's remarkable career spanned over five decades, devoted to shaping young athletes and making indelible marks in the domain of high school sports. Born on November 4, 1913, Etter embarked on his coaching journey in 1934 at Fruitland Institute, Henderson, NC, and subsequently moved to Morgan School, Petersburg, TN, showcasing his early propensity for leadership and sports mentoring.

His significant tenure at Brainerd Junior High School began in 1936 and continued until 1942, laying the groundwork for a legacy that would flourish in the years that followed. The pinnacle of Etter's career unfolded at Chattanooga Central High School, where from 1943 to 1970, he distinguished himself as the football coach, amassing a record of 215 wins, 67 losses, and 13 ties. His leadership paved the way for nine mythical state championships, solidifying his standing as a coaching titan.

In 1970, Etter transitioned to Chattanooga Baylor School, where he further embellished his legacy until 1983. There, he not only compiled a winning record of 109-35 but also led the team to a Class AAA State Championship in 1973 and earned runner-up status in 1972 and 1977. Remarkably, over 40 years as a head coach, Etter experienced just one losing season, a testament to his enduring excellence and the profound impact he had on his teams.

Etter's contributions extended beyond the field, evidenced by his 1985 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame, an honor that celebrated not just his wins but his lasting influence on Tennessee high school athletics. His induction underscored his dedication to TSSAA and its mission, highlighting a career characterized by remarkable achievements and selfless service.

Moreover, Etter's accolades included inductions into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and the Baylor Sports Hall of Fame. Chattanooga Central Football Stadium partially bears his name, "Etter/Farmer Field," honoring his contributions. Ranked among the top 25 in the nation in wins with a total of 324, he also received numerous accolades including the Chattanooga Times WDEF Lifetime Achievement and was named National Coach of the Year by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA), further cementing his legacy as one of the most impactful coaches in TSSAA history.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1985
Category: Coach