Louis Thompson, who was born on April 9, 1945, meritoriously served as a teacher and coach over a span of 35 years, starting his illustrious career in 1969. His journey through the realms of high school sports began at Madison Academy in Huntsville, AL, where he worked as an assistant football coach during the 1969-1970 season. Thompson's commitment to fostering young talent was further illustrated during his tenure at Dadeville High School, AL, from 1970 to 1977, where he climbed the ranks from an assistant to the head football coach.

Lebanon High School benefited from Thompson’s expertise in 1978, marking the beginning of a series of head coaching positions, culminating at Lincoln County High School from 1989, where he delivered remarkable success, highlighted by leading his teams to TSSAA State Championships in 1990 and 1993. Alongside coaching, Thompson assumed the role of athletic director for 22 years and served as an assistant principal from 1989, both positions held at Unicoi County High School and then at Lincoln County High School, showing his versatility and dedication to athletic administration and education.

Thompson's contributions to high school sports extended beyond local boundaries. His intermediary role at Austin-Peay State University as an assistant coach further displayed his commitment to nurturing talent at various levels. Celebrated as the Region Coach of the Year multiple times and earning the Tennessee State Coach of the Year award in 1990 and 1993, Thompson's coaching philosophy garnered widespread acclaim. His leadership skills were recognized by his peers, leading to his presidency of the Tennessee Coaches Association in 1991.

Beyond his coaching acumen, Thompson's service to the TSSAA embodied his commitment to high school athletics in Tennessee. Notably, he was an influential member of the National Federation of State High Schools Football Rules Committee from 1990 to 1994. His coaching achievements, inclusive of securing top rankings in USA Today and coaching six "Mr. Football" winners, underscored his knack for developing student-athletes into exceptional talents.

In 2005, Thompson's enduring contribution to high school sports and service to TSSAA was rightfully acknowledged through his induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame. This honor not only celebrated his coaching prowess and administrative roles but also his significant impact on fostering sportsmanship and athletic excellence within the TSSAA framework.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2005
Category: Coach