Jabbo Hessey's career, culminating in his 2019 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame, began with a longstanding dedication to teaching and coaching in the Nashville area. Starting in 1970, Hessey embarked on his educational journey at Oak Hill School, where he initially served as both a teacher and coach and eventually took on the role of athletic director. This early period set the stage for a career deeply intertwined with school athletics across several institutions.

Hessey's commitment to sports extended to Brentwood Academy, where from 1986 to 1990 and again in 2006, he coached various sports including football, basketball, track, and golf. His versatility and dedication to student athletes were evident as he moved to Battle Ground Academy in Franklin in 1990. Here, he continued his dual role as an educator in Science and Physical Education and served as the middle school athletic director until 2005. During the 2005-2006 school year, Hessey added to his repertoire by coaching golf and track at Ensworth High School.

Parallel to his teaching and coaching career, Hessey's contribution to TSSAA found its most notable expression in his nearly five-decade-long service as a track official, starting in 1970. Over the years, he became a familiar face at TSSAA Track and Field events, officiating at state championships and serving as an assistant starter. His expertise and familiarity with the sport led him to the pivotal role of TSSAA tournament director for the state track and field championships, a position he held for eleven years. Hessey's tenure as an official and director showcased his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of fairness and competitiveness in high school sports.

By the time of his retirement after the 2016 state track meet, Hessey had left an indelible mark on TSSAA and the community of student athletes across Tennessee. His 2019 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame as a Contributor celebrated not just the years spent coaching and officiating but underscored his profound impact on fostering athletic excellence and sportsmanship among generations of students. Jabbo Hessey's career is a testament to a lifetime devoted to enhancing high school sports and supporting the aspirations of young athletes.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2019
Category: Contributor