A lifelong educator, coach, and athletic administrator, Bill Bingham has dedicated 39 years to shaping the lives of students and athletes across three states. From his early days as a standout athlete to his tenure as an influential coach and athletic director, Mr. Bingham’s impact on the world of education and athletics is undeniable.

From 1956 to 1964, Mr. Bingham taught and coached both football and basketball before landing at Bristol High School in Tennessee, where he would spend the majority of his career. For 33 years, he dedicated himself to the success of the school’s academic and athletic programs. He began his tenure at Tennessee High as a science teacher and assistant coach for baseball and football, helping the school earn multiple conference and state championships in these sports.

In 1973, he took on the dual role of Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Tennessee High, where he would go on to leave a lasting legacy. Under his leadership, the school won six state championships and one national championship, with individual athletes excelling in various sports. He helped build a winning culture, guiding the football team to multiple Big Nine Conference championships, including a state title in 1971 and 1972. His coaching record was impressive, with a 36-14 mark as the head football coach.

As Athletic Director from 1973 to 1995, Mr. Bingham coordinated schedules, ticket sales, and budgets for all sports, ensuring Tennessee High maintained the highest standard for athletics. His contributions also led to the establishment of several sports programs, including boys and girls cross country, girls’ basketball, and volleyball.

Throughout his time as Athletic Director, Mr. Bingham’s work was recognized through numerous honors, including being named Athletic Director of the Year in 1990 and receiving the TSSAA Distinguished Service Award in 2013. In addition to his coaching and administrative success, he also served as the Director of the Arby’s Basketball Tournament from 1983 to 1995 and was an advocate for student-athletes through his involvement with organizations such as TIAAA, BTEA, TEA, NEA, and the TSSAA Board of Control.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2025
Category: Administrator