CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Ted Young, who began his basketball coaching career at Clarksville High School in 1994 as an assistant before becoming head coach in 1998, is retiring after a legendary 32-year career with the Wildcats.
He confirmed the decision to Clarksville Now Sunday afternoon.
Young was inspired to go into coaching after spending years as a professional basketball player, and learning along the way what good coaching looks like. “Got the opportunity to play on five different continents while being a professional player. That’s when I was taught how the game should be coached,” Young said.
Young played at CHS from 1977-79, with his No. 54 hanging in the rafters at William Workman Gymnasium. He then became a four-year starter at Vanderbilt University, where he was an All-Freshman selection, and a two-time all SEC selection. After his collegiate career, he played professionally in Japan from 1983-91 for the Isuzu Motors, winning three emperor cups, the Japanese version of the national championship.
Tournament Teddy led way in championships
During his tenure as coach at CHS, Young won 14 Coach of the Year awards. His teams won 10 district titles, eight region titles, and made eight state tournaments.
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As a coach, Young said, he misses “the old mid-state rivalries we used to have with surrounding counties. You had to be a mid-state powerhouse to advance to State. To win Region you had to be better than 18 other teams. That’s when coaches nicknamed me ‘Tournament Teddy.’ The postseason is when we really turned it on. “
“Just four years ago we made our last State Tournament run. It is time for the third part of my life adventure. Won’t be making any more history for CHS basketball. Still lean, mean, healthy and adventurous – ready to enjoy this third phase of life with my wife Marydith, family, and all our friends.”
Learning to give back
Recalling his professional basketball days, Young said he once did a cigar commercial with Red Auerbach. He said Auerbach told him, “Ted, the mark of a great man is one who gives back to the things that made him.”
“Still trying to do more of that as I transition to the next phase,” Young said. “As we celebrate retiring, big thanks to my assistant coaches, especially Mike Head, and all my former players that became my assistants. Big shout out to all my ex-players. Thank you for the years we invested together.”
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