Marion Wilhoite's career in sports journalism began early and left a lasting legacy on the world of high school athletics in Tennessee, culminating in his 2020 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame. Born on June 9, 1941, Wilhoite demonstrated his dedication to sports reporting from a young age. Between the ages of 13 and 15, he was already reporting fast-pitch softball league results. His passion for sports extended into his early career, where he kept play-by-play sheets for the Herald Sports Editor, covering Columbia Central and Columbia Military Academy.

Wilhoite's professional journey was deeply intertwined with the Columbia Daily Herald, where he served as the Sports Editor for an impressive 54 years, from 1962 until 2016. His contributions to sports journalism were recognized in 1984 when he was voted the State Prep Sportswriter of the Year by the Lawrenceburg Quarterback Club. Not only did Wilhoite make significant impacts through his writing, but his service was also acknowledged by various halls of fame, including his charter membership in the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department Hall of Fame, his recognition in the Metro Region 6 Hall of Fame, and his induction into the TN Sportswriters Hall of Fame.

Wilhoite's unique service to the TSSAA was honored through the Distinguished Service Award as a Contributor. His work not only recorded the history and achievements of high school sports in Tennessee but also promoted the values and spirit of TSSAA across the state. Beyond his professional accolades, his dedication was showcased when the Press Box at Columbia Central High School was named in his honor, a lasting tribute to his unwavering support and coverage of local sports. Furthermore, his contributions were recognized beyond the local sphere, as evidenced by his feature in a 1989 column in Sports Illustrated and an honor for 50 years of service to the TN Press Association. Marion Wilhoite passed away on November 15, 2017, but his legacy lives on through his impactful career and the recognition he received, embodying a lifetime of dedication to sports journalism and high school athletics in Tennessee.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2020
Category: Contributor