Joel Pierce, born on June 16, 1937, embarked on a remarkable journey in the world of sports, dedicating his life to officiating and serving the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) for an impressive 48 years. His induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2016 is a testament to his unwavering commitment and significant contributions to high school sports within Tennessee.

Beginning his career as a registered TSSAA official, Pierce officiated various sports, including baseball, football, basketball, and softball. His expertise and fairness on the field were unmatched, earning him respect and admiration from players, coaches, and fellow officials alike. Notably, his role extended beyond just officiating games; starting in 1967, Pierce served as the Assigning Officer in Northeast Tennessee. In this capacity, he was responsible for assigning officials to games, ensuring that each match had qualified and competent referees, a role he excelled in and held for decades.

Pierce's exemplary officiating skills led him to work prestigious state-level competitions. He officiated at the 1991 TSSAA State Baseball tournament and the 1992 TSSAA State Football championships, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure situations with grace and professionalism.

His outstanding service and dedication to high school sports in Tennessee were recognized in 2010 when he was awarded the prestigious TSSAA A. F. Bridges Award. Prior to his induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame, Pierce was honored by his local community with an induction into the Carter Co. Hall of Fame in 2014, further solidifying his legacy in Tennessee sports.

Apart from his high school officiating career, Pierce also made significant contributions at the collegiate level, officiating women's basketball and baseball games. He even extended his expertise to a local semi-pro football league, demonstrating his versatility and passion for sports officiating.

As a member of the National Association of Sports Officials, Pierce's contribution to sports and officiating has left an indelible mark on the TSSAA and the wider sports community in Tennessee, making his 2016 Hall of Fame induction a well-deserved honor for a truly exemplary career.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2016
Category: Official