The late Coach William Fred DeLay approached every endeavor with integrity and compassion, and this, more than any victories, was his lasting legacy. Born in Tennessee, DeLay graduated from Massy Military School at Pulaski in 1918 and Middle Tennessee State Teachers College in 1926. He was recognized as a great teacher, not only in the classroom, but of life and sports, as well. Delay’s first coaching job was at Postland High School from 1926 to 1928, and in just his second season there, the team was undefeated. Next stop was Carthage High School from 1931 until 1937, where his football teams had an awesome 54-5-1 record, and his basketball squads won four district tournaments and two regionals. DeLay then went to Union University in the Fall of 1937 to rebuild their ailing athletic program. Soon, his efforts began to pay off, and by 1941 the football team was the champion of the old S.I.A.A. Also part of his success at Union was coaching two-time Little-All-American Casey Jones. Delay moved to Nashville in 1949 after his coaching days were over, where he became a successful businessman and gave untold hours of devoted service to the Boy Scouts of America. Coach Fred DeLay will always be remembered not only for his great contribution to athletics, but also for his participation in worthwhile civic affairs. A natural leader, DeLay was recognized as a maker of men, a lover of youth, and a true gentleman.
