Volunteers Pave the TSSAA Road to Cookeville

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By Carolyn Swallows

Story Published: Nov 27, 2011 at 7:52 PM CDT

Story Updated: Nov 27, 2011 at 7:52 PM CDT

 


Blue Cross Bowl volunteers Susan and George Vandergriff, left, look over maps for the Dec. 1-3 games with Melinda Keifer, economic and community development coordinator for the city of Cookeville. More than 500 volunteers have a hand in virtually every aspect of the high school football championships, which are being held at Tennessee Tech. (Photo and text; Cumberland Business Journal)
 
It's time.  An army of over 500 volunteers begins intensive training this week in preparation for the eight game TSSAA playoffs.   Being awarded the opportunity to host the eight game event was a big deal for Cookeville.   The economic impact is said to be a $1 million boost to the regional economy.  
 
And, we have to admit, it's been kind of cool hearing "The Road to Cookeville" as a battle cry for teams around the southestern region. 
 
In our third year as hosts, the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association's championships will run from Thursday, Dec. 1 through Saturday, Dec. 3.   Players, coaches and a bevy of high school fans will add about 35,000 people to the Cookeville area population. 
 
But what makes it all possible are the volunteers --- all 500 of them.   The act of solidarity and volunteerism that compells 500 community leaders to take tickets, direct traffic, help with hospitality and trash and a myriad of tasks is what is perhaps even more impressive than the feats on the field.
 
TTU students have been heavily involved, taking long shifts, as have persons from virtually every corner of business or industry interest in the area.   Volunteers will be trained on Tuesday at a luncheon, where they will be reminded of the importance of this effort for our community. 

Those interested in helping in some way can still join the fun, calling the Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce at (931) 526-2211.

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steven farley said on Monday, Nov 28 at 10:06 AM

why do they need volunteers, they make a small fortune from this event and brag about it in the paper. pay some students that need work.

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