Born on June 23, 1926, Paul Linden Ward's illustrious career in education and athletics spans several decades, marked by significant contributions to high school sports and the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA). Starting his career in 1950, he dedicated 16 years to teaching and coaching, initially serving in the Hollow Rock Bruceton Special School District until 1953. During this period, Ward was an assistant football coach and the girls’ basketball coach, laying the groundwork for a legacy of mentorship and sporting excellence. Following this, he moved to the Huntingdon Special School District, where he took on the role of head football coach until 1966.

Transitioning to administrative roles without leaving the coaching field, Ward spent nine years as a principal and coach from 1966 to 1975 within the same district. The depth of his commitment to fostering sports and education saw him ascend to the role of school superintendent, a position he held for 16 years until 1991, with one year also spent coaching. This era underscored his versatility and dedication to student athletes' growth both on and off the field.

Ward's tenure as a coach was decorated with numerous accolades, including eight Football Coach of the Year Awards between 1956 and 1975, six times as Volunteer Conference Coach of the Year, twice as West Tennessee Coach of the Year, and nine triumphs as Volunteer Champs. Notably, he coached eight undefeated teams, a testament to his skillful coaching and leadership.

In recognition of his exceptional dedication and service to high school athletics across Tennessee, particularly his influential role within the TSSAA community, Paul Ward was rightly inducted into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1995. This honor celebrates his enduring impact on sports education and his indelible legacy in shaping young athletes' lives and careers in Tennessee.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1995
Category: Administrator