Tom Fann, born on January 9, 1930, is celebrated for his distinguished career as a dedicated teacher, coach, principal, and TSSAA Board of Control member, leading to his 1991 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame. Fann's journey in education and athletics began in 1954, touching the lives of many over the next thirty-six years until his retirement in 1990, two years before his death on March 23, 1993.

His career kicked off at Columbia Central High School, where he served from 1954 to 1957. He then moved to Jackson High School, where he spent a decade from 1957 to 1967. Here, Fann made a significant mark as a football coach from 1962 to 1967, achieving a remarkable record of 49 wins and only 5 losses. Under his coaching, the team secured four Big Ten Conference Titles and clinched three Mythical State Championships, showcasing his exceptional leadership and strategic skills.

Transitioning from coaching, Fann took on the role of principal, a capacity in which he served for twenty-three years. This part of his career started at Jackson High School from 1967 to 1970 before he became the principal of Jackson Central-Merry High School, where he remained until 1990. His leadership in academic administration distinguished him as a figure of authority and respect.

Beyond his school roles, Tom Fann's commitment to high school sports and its governance was evident through his service on the TSSAA Board of Control from 1981 to 1989. His contributions during this period were invaluable in shaping the policies and direction of high school sports in Tennessee.

Fann's legacy extends beyond his professional achievements, with his involvement in sports leading to several honors. These include being named Little All-American and serving as the Captain of the Tennessee Technological University football team in 1952, inductions into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, Tennessee Technological University Sports Hall of Fame, Warren County Sports Hall of Fame, and the Jackson-Madison County Sports Hall of Fame. His induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1991 was the culmination of a career dedicated to the development of youth through sports and education, marking him as a key figure in Tennessee's athletic history.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1991
Category: Administrator