Randy Barnes, born on April 19, 1951, crafted a distinguished career as a teacher, coach, and athletic director before his induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2008. His journey began at Houston County High School from 1973 to 1975, where he undertook the roles of a football, boys’ basketball, and baseball coach. In 1975, Barnes transitioned to Union City High School, marking the start of an illustrious tenure that lasted until 2002.

At Union City High School, Barnes primarily made his mark as the head football coach, amassing an impressive record of 191 wins against only 58 losses, translating to a .767 winning percentage. Under his stewardship, the football team reached the playoffs twelve times, won 8 region championships, and was twice the Class AA state runner-up in 1987 and 2002. His teams also achieved three undefeated regular seasons (1991, 1997, 2000), reflecting Barnes' coaching prowess and dedication. Beyond football, Barnes contributed to the baseball and track & field programs, with his baseball teams twice finishing 3rd in the state tournament.

From 1999 to 2002, Randy Barnes expanded his influence by serving as the Athletic Director at Union City High School. During his coaching career, Barnes experienced only one losing season over twenty-one years and was named Coach of the Year in his district or region a remarkable twelve times. He embraced opportunities to share his knowledge, presenting at the TSSAA Athletic Directors Conference in 1995.

Randy Barnes' service to TSSAA and commitment to high school athletics were further recognized by his inclusion in Union City High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2003 and his contributions at the University of Tennessee at Martin as both an inductee into their Athletic Hall of Fame and as the Director of Football Operations.

His induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2008 celebrates a career dedicated to fostering athleticism, sportsmanship, and integrity among Tennessee's youth, illustrating his unwavering dedication to them and to TSSAA's mission.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2008
Category: Coach