Dale Kelley's illustrious career in sports, culminating in his 1998 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame, showcases his significant contributions to athletics in Tennessee. Born on October 19, 1939, Kelley began his association with the TSSAA as an official, serving from 1965 to 1986. During this period, he was entrusted with officiating at two girls' TSSAA state basketball tournaments and one boys' TSSAA state basketball tournament, highlighting his competence and the trust placed in him by the association.

Beyond his direct officiating roles, Kelley also significantly contributed to the organization and management of sports officials. From 1974 to 1983, he served as the Commissioner of the Northwest Tennessee Basketball Officials’ Association, underscoring his leadership within the officiating community and his commitment to ensuring the highest standards were maintained.

Kelley's dedication to sports and education extended to his involvement with local education boards. He was a member of the Huntingdon Special School District Board of Education and the Carroll County Vocational Education School Board for nine years each, from 1974 to 1983. These positions allowed him to influence the direction of sports and educational opportunities in Carroll County positively.

In addition to his TSSAA roles, Kelley achieved notable success in collegiate basketball officiating. His experience included 14 years in the Southeastern Conference, nine consecutive NCAA basketball tournaments, and three NCAA Final Four Basketball Tournaments. His broad impact on the sport was further acknowledged through numerous hall of fame inductions, including the Bethel College Hall of Fame in 1981, the Carroll County Sports Hall of Fame in 2002, and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 2003.

Kelley's 1998 TSSAA Hall of Fame induction celebrated not just his direct contributions to high school sports in Tennessee but also his broader influence on athletics and sportsmanship at various levels. His legacy includes not only his achievements as an official and commissioner but also his enduring commitment to developing and improving sports officials' training, exemplified by his assistance at TSSAA officials’ camps. Dale Kelley's career truly embodies a lifelong dedication to sports excellence and education in Tennessee.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1998
Category: Official