A. D. Hancock, a prominent figure in the realm of Tennessee secondary education and athletics, paved an illustrious career that led to his induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1993. Born on April 23, 1926, Hancock embarked on his journey as an educator in 1950, initially dedicating five years to teaching. His early tenure was at Stratton Elementary from 1950 until 1953, followed by Madison High School until 1955.

Transitioning into administration, Hancock served as an Assistant Principal at Madison High School from 1955 to 1958. His administrative prowess was swiftly recognized, propelling him into the role of a principal, a position he held with distinction for 34 years across various high schools, including Cumberland High School, Isaac Litton High School, Hume-Fogg High School, Hillwood High School, and finally Hunters Lane High School until his retirement in 1992.

Parallel to his educational career, Hancock was deeply involved with the TSSAA. From 1952 to 1955, he was a TSSAA official, which marked the beginning of his long association with the organization. His most significant contributions, however, came from his service on the TSSAA Board of Control for 17 years, from 1975 to 1992. During his tenure, Hancock held the positions of Vice-President from 1987 to 1990 and President from 1990 to 1992. Under his guidance, the TSSAA saw profound changes that significantly shaped the landscape of high school athletics in Tennessee. Notable achievements included expansion of the football playoffs, integration of the football playoffs with the annual Clinic Bowl, the initiation of classification in various sports, the introduction of new sports like softball and soccer for girls and boys, a pivotal decision to transition girls' basketball from half-court to full-court play, the development of catastrophic insurance for schools, and enlarging the TSSAA staff.

In addition to his administrative and TSSAA commitments, Hancock's excellence in school leadership was recognized when he was named Tennessee High School Principal of the Year for 1990-1991. His unwavering dedication to enhancing high school sports and athletics administration secured his legacy and justified his esteemed position in the TSSAA Hall of Fame.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1993
Category: Administrator