HSSS - Tom Kreager

Tate Mathews and The Tennessean’s Tom Kreager examined the shifting landscape of Tennessee high school athletics. The discussion centered on a "changing of the guard" within the coaching ranks, highlighted by high-profile departures such as Matt Kriesky from Blackman and Ben Caudill from Stewarts Creek, as well as the return of Trent Dilfer to Lipscomb Academy. Kreager attributed this high turnover rate to the professionalization of the sport, noting that new TSSAA rules allowing one-time transfers and the emergence of NIL opportunities have transformed high school coaching into a grueling, 24/7 role focused on roster management. Concerns were also raised regarding a potential "coaching shortage" as experienced mentors step away due to the sport's evolving culture and the increasing influence of the transfer portal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.