A. J. Wilson, born on June 3, 1923, in Maryville, TN, embarked on a distinguished coaching career spanning 24 years from 1956 to 1980. His journey in shaping young athletes' lives and contributing significantly to high school sports began at Walland High School in Blount County. Here, from 1956 to 1972, he not only coached football but also led the girls' basketball teams, both at the junior high and high school levels, to considerable success. His junior high girls' basketball team amassed an impressive record of 64 wins against merely 4 losses. The high school team under his guidance boasted a record of 482 wins and 83 losses, making 13 state tournament appearances, finishing as state runner-up twice, and securing third place once.

In 1972, Wilson took his coaching expertise to Maryville High School, continuing to coach football and girls' basketball until his retirement in 1980. His tenure at Maryville was marked by a historic achievement when his girls' basketball team earned a berth in the TSSAA state tournament in 1976, the first for the school in 53 years. By the end of his career, Wilson had compiled an overall coaching record of 656 wins and 121 losses across both sports, with none of his teams ever recording a losing season.

Wilson's contributions to high school sports were not limited to his coaching victories. He is credited with pioneering the team camp concept, significantly impacting athletic training and preparation. His legacy is permanently etched in the community with the Walland School Gymnasium carrying his name as a token of esteem and gratitude for his services.

In recognition of his outstanding service and contributions to high school sports and the TSSAA, A. J. Wilson was posthumously inducted into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2000. The year prior, in 1997, he had been inducted into the Blount County Hall of Fame, further solidifying his status as a beloved and respected figure in Tennessee's athletic community. Wilson passed away on June 24, 1998, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in coaching and dedication to the development of young athletes.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2000
Category: Coach