“Throughout my life I’ve been a competitor… and I’ve loved every minute of it.” These words from Elma Roane, the backbone of women’s athletics at Memphis State University for more than four decades, exemplify her spirit and devotion to sports. A star basketball center and softball player for Memphis Messick in the 1930s, Roane graduated from MSU (then called West Tennessee State Teacher’s College) in 1940. After graduating, Roane became a determining force at her alma mater, first as the director of the women’s division of physical education and then as women’s athletic director. “I’ve seen Memphis State grow and prosper in women’s athletics,” Roane said. Elma began her teaching career in the Memphis Public School System while earning an M.S. degree from the University of Tennessee in 1943. In 1946 she returned to Memphis State as an instructor in physical education. From 1955 to 1970, Roane coached basketball, volleyball, and badminton at MSU. An all-round athlete herself, her forte was badminton. As a competitor, she won many titles and achieved national ranking in the sport. In 1973 Roane received the Honor Award from the Southern District American Association of Health, Physical Education and Recreation “for her outstanding efforts in promoting opportunities for women in athletics and physical education.” An upstanding citizen in her community, as well, Elma Roane served with the Tennessee-Arkansas Girl Scout Council and the Memphis Park Commission. A true legend, Elma Roane holds a seat of high regard in the annals of MSU sports history.
