Fred Sorrells' storied career in education and athletics, spanning four decades from 1959 to 1999, culminated in his well-deserved induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2007. Beginning his journey at Greeneville Junior High School, Sorrells dedicated himself to shaping young minds and bodies in various sports, including football, track, and basketball from 1959 to 1967. His passion for nurturing talent saw him move to Greeneville High School in 1967, where until 1969, he continued to coach track and assist in football.

His career further diversified as he moved to West Henderson High School in 1969, assuming the role of a football coach for a year before stepping into collegiate coaching at Carson Newman College from 1970 to 1972. Here, he made significant contributions as the defensive coordinator for football and the track coach. Returning to high school coaching, Sorrells led Jefferson High School’s football program from 1972 to 1975 before moving to Jefferson County High School where he served as an assistant football coach until 1977.

Sorrells' most enduring tenure was at Greeneville High School from 1977 to 1999, where as a football coach, he achieved a commendable record of 151 wins and 82 losses, boasting 17 winning seasons. Beyond coaching, he played a critical role as an athletic director for 24 years, a potion he held at Jefferson County High School and then at Greeneville High School.

His service extended beyond the field into administrative roles within the TSSAA, where Sorrells made his mark as an Athletic Director Regional Representative for four years and was honored as the TSSAA Athletic Director of the Year in 1991-1992.

During his illustrious career, Sorrells' contributions were recognized with multiple awards, including the Julian Crocker Influence Award in 1992 and the prestigious Rex Dockery State Prep Coach of the Year in 1998. Particularly notable was his involvement in the Tennessee/Kentucky All-Star Football Classic, where he served as both head and assistant coach.

Fred Sorrells' induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2007 was a fitting tribute to a career defined by dedication to student-athletes, a commitment to excellence in coaching, and unwavering service to high school athletics in Tennessee.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2007
Category: Coach