Willie M. Hudson, born on September 17, 1914, embarked on an illustrious teaching and coaching career that spanned over two decades before his untimely passing on February 28, 1963. His induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1983 was a testament to his significant contributions to high school sports in Tennessee. Hudson began his career in education and coaching at Pineview Elementary in 1937, quickly establishing his capacity for leadership and his passion for sports. The following year, he moved to Linden High School, where he remained until 1943 and then resumed after World War II from 1946 until his death in 1963.

At Linden High School, Hudson made an indelible mark, particularly as the boys’ basketball coach, a position he held for 22 years. Under his guidance, the basketball team flourished, achieving remarkable success that included three consecutive state titles before the advent of classification in 1955, 1956, and 1957. Beyond these championships, his team maintained a staggering 48-game winning streak from January 1954 to February 1956. Hudson also led his teams to six district titles, four region championships, and seven state tournament appearances, showcasing his adeptness at developing winning strategies and fostering team cooperation.

Remarkably, this level of achievement was accomplished with a school enrollment of less than 200 students, further highlighting Hudson's exceptional coaching abilities. His legacy was cemented in the local community when the Perry County Football Stadium was named "Willie Hudson Field" in his honor, a tribute to his enduring impact on student-athletes and high school sports in Tennessee.

In recognition of his incredible service to TSSAA and his remarkable career, Willie Hudson's 1983 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame stands as a celebration of a man who was not only a coach but also a mentor and role model to many young athletes across the state. His affiliation with Freed-Hardeman College in Henderson, Tennessee, where he played football and basketball, laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication to youth sports and education.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1983
Category: Coach