Edgar Allen's illustrious career was distinguished by a committed service to the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), leading to his rightful induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1993. Born on January 30, 1924, Allen's journey with TSSAA began early on as he took the role of a Sports Editor at East Nashville High School, notably covering the 1939 and 1942 TSSAA State Basketball Tournaments.

Allen's dedication to sports journalism continued at the Nashville Banner where he served for 37 years from 1942 to 1979, including 12 years as the Assistant Head Editor from 1967. During his tenure at the Banner, Edgar Allen emerged as a critical figure in high school sports across Tennessee. He chaired the All-State Football and Basketball Boards and served as the Tennessee Chairman of the All-Southern Football Panel. Furthermore, Allen's influence extended to direct involvement with high school sports, as he was the director of 10 TSSAA Golf Tournaments, showcasing his leadership and organizational capabilities.

Allen's contributions to the TSSAA were multifaceted. Besides his editorial work, he played a pivotal role in public relations, evident from his editorship of a TSSAA public relations brochure in 1960 and his participation as a speaker on Public Relations at the 1959 National Federation State High School Associations (NFHS) convention in Chattanooga. His efforts in promoting high school sports were recognized with an "Honorary Lifetime Member of TSSAA" award in 1961 by Executive Secretary A. F. Bridges.

Beyond his direct involvement with TSSAA, Allen's commitment to high school athletics was integral to launching a local program that sponsored team trophies, MVP awards, and All-Nashville medals for every sport TSSAA sanctioned. Even after leaving the Nashville Banner, his influence lingered through his work as the Director of Media Relations at Churchill Downs and his editorship of state basketball record booklets between 1949 and 1954.

Allen's career not only earned him three Tennessee Sportswriter of the Year awards but also solidified his legacy as a leader and advocate for high school sports in Tennessee. His induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1993 was a fitting tribute to a career deeply interwoven with the fabric of high school athletics in the state, highlighting his remarkable contribution to fostering sportsmanship and excellence among young athletes.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1993
Category: Contributor