Albert Ellison Jr., born on December 7, 1937, embarked on an impressive journey in high school athletics that spanned decades and crossed state lines, culminating in his prestigious induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2007. His career began in 1960 at Park City, KY, initiating a 47-year spree dedicated to teaching and coaching across various schools. His tenure included stints at Scottsville High School, KY (1964-1965), South Spencer, IN (1965-1968), Center Grove, IN (1968-1969), Lawrence Central (1969-1970), Perry Co. High School (1970-1975), Hardin Co. High School (1975-1982), Lafayette Co., MS (1982-1985), Lewis Co. High School (1985-1998), and finally at Frank Hughes High School from 1998 onwards.

Throughout his career, Ellison coached multiple sports, including basketball, football, baseball, and cross country, showcasing his versatility and commitment to student-athletes. His contributions to high school athletics, specifically within Tennessee and to the TSSAA, spanned over fifty years, emphasizing his enduring impact on youth sports in the region.

Ellison’s tenure was marked by significant achievements, including winning back-to-back TSSAA State Basketball Championships in 1955 and 1956 while at Linden High School when there was just one classification—a feat that elevated high school basketball to a new level in Tennessee. In addition to these championships, Ellison's teams amassed over 700 career victories under his guidance.

His college years saw him playing basketball at Western Kentucky University, further shaping his understanding and love for the game. Ellison’s legacy is intertwined with a special time in TSSAA history, remembered alongside Linden and Willie Hudson as figures who helped elevate high school sports within the state during the 1950s.

Albert Ellison Jr.’s induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2007 as a contributor was a testament to his influential career and lifelong dedication to nurturing young athletes across various sports disciplines, leaving an indelible mark on high school athletics in Tennessee.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2007
Category: Contributor