Larry Taft's illustrious career as a sportswriter and advocate for high school sports earned him a spot in the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2011. Born on January 6, 1950, Taft's journey in sports journalism began when he took up a role as a sportswriter with The Tennessean newspaper in Nashville. Over nearly four decades, his dedication to covering high school sports established him as a central figure in the Tennessee sports community.

Taft's commitment to high school athletics was evident early in his career when he reported on his first boys' state basketball tournament in 1973, followed by his first football championship coverage in 1974. Throughout his career, Taft expanded his portfolio while working for esteemed publications such as the Knoxville News-Sentinel and The Democrat-Union in Lawrenceburg, in addition to his long tenure at The Tennessean.

One pivotal moment in Taft's career was his 16-month stint as the Director of Media Relations at the TSSAA. This role showcased his ability to not only cover sports but to actively engage in the promotion and support of high school athletics at an institutional level. After this period, he returned to The Tennessean to continue his vocation as a sports journalist, later ascending to the role of Sports Editor.

Taft not only chronicled sports; he was an active participant in the history and recognition of high school athletics. His efforts to nominate numerous individuals for the TSSAA Hall of Fame underscored his passion and deep appreciation for the significance of high school sports in Tennessee. Additionally, Taft contributed to TSSAA State Basketball Tournament programs, honoring past championship teams with celebratory articles.

In the early 1980s, Taft introduced a weekly football wrap-up that included district standings. This endeavor provided valuable information for fans and contributed significantly to the local sports culture by enabling its incorporation into newspapers statewide.

Larry Taft's induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2011 was not merely a recognition of his contributions as a sportswriter but a celebration of his unwavering dedication to and impact on high school sports in Tennessee. Through his writings, leadership, and innovative ideas, Taft played a vital role in fostering a rich legacy of sportsmanship and athletic achievement across the state.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2011
Category: Contributor