Clint E. Parnell, whose illustrious career spanned 56 years as an educator, coach, and administrator in Middle Tennessee, was rightfully honored with his induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2020. Parnell's journey in education and athletics began at Maplewood High School, where he dedicated 21 years to teaching and coaching football, basketball, and track, nurturing the physical and intellectual growth of countless youth. His leadership skills and passion for student development led him to administrative roles, serving as an Assistant Principal at Whites Creek High School for five years before moving on to a four-year tenure at Ewing Park Middle School.

In 1992, Parnell retired from the Metro-Nashville Public Schools, only to continue his monumental contributions to youth athletics and education at Goodpasture Christian School. There, he was named Principal and Athletic Director, roles he filled until 2005, before focusing solely on athletic administration for nearly three decades. Remarkably, Parnell's service extended beyond his school duties; in the 1970s, he also made his mark as a TSSAA basketball official, further solidifying his commitment to Tennessee high school sports.

Throughout these years, Parnell’s achievements did not go unnoticed. In 2006, he was honored with a TSSAA Distinguished Service Award as an administrator, and in 2009, he was named the TSSAA Athletic Director of the Year in his region. His legacy is permanently etched into the fabric of Goodpasture Christian School, with the newly constructed Parnell Athletic Center standing as a testament to his enduring impact. Clint Parnell's career is a beacon of dedication, leadership, and service to TSSAA and the broader community of student-athletes and educators in Tennessee.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2020
Category: Administrator