Charlie Harper's induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2015 marked a significant milestone in a career dedicated to nurturing young athletes in track and field and cross country throughout Middle Tennessee. Born on August 17, 1944, Harper embarked on his coaching journey in 1970 in Murfreesboro, TN, laying down the foundations of what would become a stellar 40-year career. He initially coached at Murfreesboro Central for three years before moving to Murfreesboro Oakland, where he continued to impart his knowledge for another nine years.

In 1983, Harper took his coaching prowess to Brentwood Academy, where he nurtured young athletes till 2011. His tenure there was marked by unparalleled success, overseeing the acquisition of fourteen boys' track and field state championships, three boys' cross country state championships, and one girls' cross country state championship. His expertise and dedication did not just stop at team accolades; Harper was instrumental in coaching several individuals to TSSAA state championships, further cementing his legacy in the annals of Tennessee's secondary school sports.

Beyond the track and the cross country courses, Harper's excellence garnered widespread recognition. He was named the Tennessean Coach of the Year in both track and field and cross country, underlining his influence across different athletics domains. Furthermore, the Tennessee Athletic Coaches Association (TACA) acknowledged his contributions by bestowing upon him the Coach of the Year award in both track and field and cross country. Nationally, he was selected as the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) State Coach of the Year and was a regional nominee, evidencing his prestige and impact beyond state boundaries.

Charlie Harper's remarkable journey through decades of coaching, characterized by his profound impact on students, peers, and the broader community, rightly earned him a place in the TSSAA Hall of Fame.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2015
Category: Coach