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Football

Coaching Staff 
James " Hoot" Gibson - Head Football Coach/Assistant Athletic Director 
 
Assistants: 
Mark Proffitt - Offensive Coordinator
Boone Davidson
- QBs
Roger Mason - Offensive Line
Nick Beasley - DBs
Daniel Jeffers - Linebackers & RBs
Nick Crozier - Wide Receivers & Tightends
Josh Jackson - Defensive Line
Sam Pinner - Centers
Patrick Hughes - DFO

Wartburg Central High School Football Records & Achievements

Program Highlights

  • TSSAA Playoff Appearances: 8
  • County Champions: 30 titles
  • All-State Players: 14
  • College Signees: 25

State Records

  • All-Time Receiving Yards: #6 Most Receiving Yards in a Career (TSSAA): Landon Quinney – 3,580 yards (2021-2024)
  • All-Time Receptions: #2 Most Receptions in a Career (TSSAA): Landon Quinney – 238 receptions (2021-2024)
  • Longest Fumble Return: 99 yards – Mark Goodman vs. Oliver Springs (1993)
  • Longest Punt Return: 99 yards – Donnie Neal vs. Scott County (November 1, 1974)
  • Most Interceptions in a Game: 4 interceptions – Lawson Swint vs. Jellico (October 7, 2022)
  • Most Receiving Yards in a Game: 316 yards – Jeremy VanNorstran vs. Alcoa (October 29, 1999)
  • Most Touchdown Receptions in a Game:
    • 4 touchdowns – Adam Spence vs. Jellico (October 15, 2010)
    • 4 touchdowns – Adam Spence vs. Sunbright (October 29, 2010)

School Records

Passing:

  • Single-Season Passing Yards: Rusty Phillips – 2,221 yards, 25 TDs, plus 551 rushing yards and 6 TDs
  • Single-Game Passing Yards: Josh Melton – 475 yards vs. Alcoa (2000)

Rushing:

  • Single-Season Rushing Yards: Marty Cox – 1,196 yards (1996)

Receiving:

  • All-Time Receiving Yards: #6 Most Receiving Yards in a Career (TSSAA): Landon Quinney – 3,580 yards (2021-2024)
  • All-Time Receptions: #2 Most Receptions in a Career (TSSAA): Landon Quinney – 238 receptions (2021-2024)
  • Single-Season Receiving Yards: Adam Spence (2010) hauled in 17 touchdown passes and piled up 1,315 receiving yards.

Tackles:

  • Single-Season Tackle Record:
    • Adam Kilby – 160 tackles (2013)
    • Derek Sills – 153 tackles (2002)
  • Single-Game Tackle Record:
    • Brenton Griffith – 26 tackles (1995)
    • Adam Kilby – 24 tackles (2013)
  • Career Tackle Leader: Derek Sills – 385 tackles, 47 TFL (2002)

Sacks:

  • Career Sack Leader: Joey Wright – 44 sacks (2001)

  • Most Sacks in a Single Season: Brenton Griffith – 26 sacks (1993)

Scoring:

  • Most Points Scored in a Game: 61 points (October 11, 2019)

Additional Achievements

  • Most Shutouts: 94 all-time

Share Updated Information

If you have updated information, see a mistake or have additional records and stats, please contact Coach James ‘Hoot’ Gibson at [email protected].

Your contributions are invaluable in preserving and celebrating the proud history of Wartburg Central Football. Together, we honor the legacy of our program and the remarkable athletes who have built its foundation!

Wartburg Central High School Football: Honors and Achievements

All-State Players

Quarterbacks:

  • Rusty Phillips (2010)
  • John T. Armes (2003)
  • Damon Duncan (2023)
  • Joshua Moore (2018)

Running Backs:

  • Marty Cox (1996)

Wide Receivers:

  • Landon Quinney (2022, 2023)
  • Adam Spence (2010)

Offensive Linemen:

  • Austin Hensley (2010)
  • Bob Zumstein (1950)

Defensive Linemen:

  • Hunter Morgan (2022)
  • Brenton Griffith (1993)
  • Caleb Carrol (2024)

Linebackers:

  • Adam Kilby (2014)
  • Peron Cruize (2020)
  • Aaron Hutchison (2009, 2010)

Defensive Backs:

  • Saylor Jones (2019)

This list celebrates the outstanding achievements of our athletes who earned All-State honors, showcasing Wartburg Central's tradition of excellence in football.

 

College Football Signees

  • Bob Zumstein: University of Tennessee
  • Mouse Shadden: Miss State
  • Larry Davis: University of Memphis
  • Jay Moore: MTSU
  • Chad Sills: Maryville College
  • Andrew Kittreal: Union College
  • John T. Armes: Carson-Newman
  • Joey Wright: Carson-Newman
  • Damon Shadden: MTSU
  • Sean Phillips: MTSU
  • Eugene Pool: Cumberland University
  • Adam Kilby: Kentucky Christian University
  • Joshua Moore: Tusculum College
  • Michael Wilkie: Rainy River
  • Brenton Griffith: Carson-Newman
  • Adam Spence: Tennessee Tech
  • Cody Sexton: Bethel University
  • Dakota Smith: Lindenwood University
  • Michael Lowe: Carson-Newman
  • Tony Young: Austin Peay
  • Don Edwards: Tennessee Tech
  • Dwight Hamby: Tennessee Chattanooga
  • Steve Garrett: Tennessee Tech
  • Marty Cox: Tusculum College
  • Ryan Hamm: Tennessee Chattanooga
  • Landon Quinney: Eastern Kentucky Univeristy

Hall of Fame Coaches

Homer Rice

  • 1951 Wartburg Head Football Coach
  • Rice's tenure marked an era of athletic excellence, including a 1990 National Championship in football, NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four appearance, and 18 NBA draft picks. As Director of Athletics at Georgia Tech, he pioneered the Total Person Program, which became the NCAA Life Skills Program widely adopted across universities nationwide.
  • Coaching Career:
    • Wartburg Central High School (1951)
    • Spring City High School (1952–1953)
    • Ft. Thomas Highlands High School (1954–1961)
    • University of Kentucky (Assistant Coach) (1962–1965)
    • Oklahoma (Backs Coach) (1966)
    • Cincinnati (1967–1968)
    • Rice University (1976–1977)
    • Cincinnati Bengals (1978–1979)

 

Coach John 'Tex' Davis ​

Coach John 'Tex' Davis joined Wartburg Central High School in 1956, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for sports. ​ A former player under the legendary Coach Bob Neyland at the University of Tennessee, Davis was part of the 1951 national championship team. ​ Born in Bogata, Texas, he was known for his dedication and innovative coaching techniques. ​

At WCHS, Coach Davis significantly improved both the football and basketball teams. ​ He introduced a fast break single wing offense and full court zone press defense in basketball, which was revolutionary at the time. ​ His coaching style emphasized discipline, respect, and a sincere interest in the welfare of his players, coupled with a good sense of humor. ​

Former players remember him as a strict yet caring mentor who instilled life-long values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. ​ He ensured his players dressed neatly, stayed out of trouble, and always gave their best effort on the field and court.

After several successful years at WCHS, Coach Davis moved on to a larger high school in Jefferson City, Tennessee, where he eventually retired. ​ He was honored at the 50th anniversary of the 1951 championship team in 2001, shortly before his passing from cancer. ​

Coach John 'Tex' Davis's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, and he will always be remembered as a remarkable coach and mentor at Wartburg Central High School. ​The home side bleachers are named after him.

 

 

Larry "Polar Bear" Davis  

Larry Davis, a proud graduate of Wartburg Central High School, is celebrated as the winningest football coach in the school’s history. Serving as head coach from 1995 to 2006 and then 2015, and 2016. Davis led the Bulldogs to four playoff appearances in 1996, 2001, 2002, and 2004, including a historic victory over perennial powerhouse Alcoa, one of the most memorable achievements in Wartburg football history. His tenure was marked by success on the field and his remarkable ability to mentor standout athletes such as Joey Wright, John T. Armes, Brenton Griffith, Derek Sills, Damon Shadden, and Marty Cox, many of whom earned All-State honors or All-East Tennessee recognition. Beyond Wartburg, Davis’s coaching career included notable tenures at Rockwood High School, McMinn Central, and Cookeville High School, where he continued to develop young athletes. At the collegiate level, he served as an assistant coach at Ole Miss and the University of Memphis, further solidifying his reputation as a respected football mind. In addition to his coaching accomplishments, Davis also served as Principal of Wartburg Central Middle School and briefly as head volleyball coach, reflecting his commitment to education and the development of students both on and off the field.  Larry Davis’s legacy is defined by his exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to developing student-athletes. His profound impact on Wartburg Central High School, as well as the broader football community, has earned him a rightful place in the Hall of Fame. His contributions continue to inspire and shape future generations of athletes and coaches.
 
 
Dr. Dan Shoemaker
Dr. Dan Shoemaker, a dedicated educator and coach since 1993, has left a profound legacy on Wartburg Central High School football. Taking over as head coach in 2008, he inherited a program struggling with a 33-game losing streak. Through his exceptional leadership and commitment, he revitalized the team, culminating in a remarkable 9-3 season and a state quarterfinals appearance in 2010—the best finish in the school’s history. In 2009, Dr. Shoemaker also took on the role of Athletic Director, where he continued to mentor both athletes and coaches, fostering a culture of growth and excellence. Even after stepping down as head coach in 2011, he remained deeply involved in the program as an assistant coach and Athletic Director, further solidifying his influence on Wartburg athletics. Dr. Shoemaker’s impact extends beyond the football field. As the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director and Principal of the Morgan County Career and Technical Center, he plays a pivotal role in preparing students for successful futures. Through innovative educational programs and workforce development initiatives, he ensures students are equipped with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Dr. Shoemaker’s dedication to education and athletics continues to shape lives and inspire future generations.
 

 

Wartburg Central High School Football Hall of Fame

Our Hall of Fame honors the remarkable athletes and contributors who have built the foundation of Wartburg Central High School Football. These individuals represent the best of our program’s tradition of excellence and commitment, leaving legacies that inspire current and future Bulldogs.


Bob Zumstein

Bob Zumstein played an integral role in the 1951 National Championship team at the University of Tennessee.

  • High School Career: A graduate of Wartburg Central High School, Zumstein excelled as a player during his time with the Bulldogs, earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike.
  • Post-Football Accomplishments: He pursued a career in medicine, making significant contributions to his community. Throughout his life, Zumstein remained a passionate supporter of Tennessee Volunteers football and the Ariton Purple Cats' athletic programs.

Jack Moore

Jack Moore is one of Wartburg Central’s most versatile athletes, excelling across multiple positions during his five-year high school career, from 8th grade to graduation in 1992.

  • High School Accomplishments:
    • Played Defensive Line, Linebacker, Offensive Line, Kicker, and Punter.
    • Recorded over 20 sacks as a sophomore and averaged 19 tackles per game in his junior and senior years.
    • Served as a team leader, setting benchmarks for effort, toughness, and leadership.
  • College Career: Redshirted his freshman year before becoming a four-year starter at Middle Tennessee State University (Nose Guard).
    • Competed against powerhouse programs like Nebraska, Hawaii, Texas A&M, and Tulsa.
    • Helped MTSU secure an Ohio Valley Conference Championship and made two national playoff appearances.
  • Post-Football Career: Briefly pursued boxing and trained with heavyweight legend Tommy Morrison. Transitioned to coaching, leading Wartburg Middle School to two East Tennessee Championship appearances. For the past 24 years, he has coached at Webb School, earning 8 state championship appearances and 6 titles.

Donald H. "Mouse" Shadden

Donald “Mouse” Shadden is remembered as one of Wartburg Central’s most iconic athletes and a beloved figure in the community.

  • High School Accomplishments:
    • Played multiple positions: QB, RB, LB, DB, Kicker, and Punter.
    • Scored 54 career touchdowns, making him Wartburg Central’s all-time leading scorer.
    • Named Conference and County MVP, solidifying his reputation as one of Tennessee’s top high school players.
  • College Career: Signed with Mississippi State University to play in the SEC, a testament to his talent and dedication.
  • Community Impact: Owned and operated the Village Market and Deli (Mouse’s) for over 20 years, touching countless lives with his generosity and love for Wartburg.

Larry Davis

Larry Davis has left a lasting impact on Wartburg Central both as a player and a coach. He played Football and Basketball.

  • College Career: Played Offensive Tackle at the University of Memphis, where he became known for his agility and discipline on the line.
  • Coaching Career: Wartburg Central’s longest-tenured coach, Davis played a crucial role in shaping the program’s identity and developing countless young athletes during his time with the Bulldogs.

Josh Moore

Josh Moore’s electrifying senior season set records and elevated Wartburg Central football.

  • High School Accomplishments:
    • Dual-threat QB with 696 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 109 carries.
    • Passed for 1,413 yards, completing 92 of 160 attempts with 19 touchdowns.
    • Scored 31 total touchdowns, the most in a single season by any Wartburg player.
  • Legacy: Known for his athleticism, leadership, and ability to make big plays, Josh set a standard for future Bulldogs and remains one of the program’s most exciting players.

Brenton Griffith

Brenton Griffith was a dominant force on the field, recognized for his unparalleled performance and leadership, and he was also an assistant football coach in 2004 and 2005.

  • High School Honors:
    • First Team All-State (AA) Defensive Lineman and First Team All-East TN.
    • Region 2-2A MVP, 2x All-District, District Defensive Player of the Year, and 4x All-County selection.
  • Senior Year Stats:
    • 148 tackles, 26 sacks, 67 tackles for loss.
    • Single-game high of 26 tackles against Harriman.
  • College Career: Earned a scholarship to Carson-Newman University, continuing his football success at the collegiate level.

 

 

🏆 Honoring the 1951 Wartburg Central High School Football Team 🏆

We are proud to announce the induction of the legendary 1951 Wartburg Central High School Football Team into the Wartburg Football Players Hall of Fame!

This team stands as the greatest in program history, achieving an undefeated season and earning national recognition. Under the leadership of their extraordinary coach, Homer Rice, the Bulldogs posted six shutouts and defeated larger schools like Gibbs, Kingston, Oneida, and York. The 1951 team was celebrated at the halftime of the 2001 Tennessee-Syracuse football game, marking the 50th anniversary of their historic season.

Team Roster:
Players: Wayne Garrett, Calvin Davis, Kelly Redmon, Earl Sisson, Ekie Hatfield, Jimmy Massengill, Everett Kreis, Lynn West, James Dautel, Tommy Weiford, Franklin McCartt, Lloyd Basler, Ralph Goodman, Bill Davis, Alan Redmon, Billy Harris, Don Terry, Ray Bardill, Lloyd Lowe, Don Patrick, Laerence Rains, Paul Langley, Barney Hall, John Tidwell
Managers: Ronnie Jones, Billy Christopher
Coach: Homer Rice

Their legacy as pioneers of the triple-option offense and their determination to overcome challenges, such as playing on a field they prepared by hand, exemplify the spirit of Wartburg Football. Congratulations to the entire 1951 Team for this well-deserved honor. You paved the way for generations of Bulldogs to come, and your impact will forever be a part of Wartburg’s proud history.

💙🐾 Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog! 🐾💙

 

Wartburg Central High School Football celebrates the incredible achievements of these Hall of Fame inductees, whose dedication, talent, and impact on and off the field continue to inspire. Their legacies are a cornerstone of our program’s proud tradition. Together, we honor their contributions as we look toward a future built on the same values of excellence and commitment.

2024 Football Roster
Seniors
D. Yates #7
C. Scarbro #18
W. Potter #21
T. Hooks #24
D. Catalino #10
I. Beasley #5

Juniors
J. Duncan #19
A. Duncan #17
M. Beard #53
R. Barrett #74
H. Williams #2
 
Sophomores
A. Stafford #0
L. Redmon #50
J. Perez #75
C. Wilson #9
O. Collins #58
B. Shadden #66
J. Thomas #2
M. Stedam #13
R. Quinney #6
M. Jones #14
M. Francis #25