NASHVILLE, Tenn. –The Titans partnered with the Tennessee Football Coaches Association (TFCA) to host the inaugural Tennessee Titans High School Football Recruiting Fair Tuesday at LP Field.
The first of its kind for an NFL team, the event drew representatives from 80 high schools across the state and 43 colleges and universities across 13 states.
The goal of the recruiting fair was to provide additional exposure for high school student-athletes and increase the opportunity for those student-athletes to continue their football – and academic – careers at the collegiate level.
"I think now, with the way recruiting is going, it's all about accessibility and making sure that you continue to push and market these young men," said TFCA President Thomas McDaniel. "Every chance you get to get them seen or have their name put in somebody's rolodex is another opportunity for them. I think it's a win for everybody."
By hosting a large number of high schools – both public and private – in a central location, colleges and universities with limited recruiting budgets were able to evaluate players they otherwise might not have had access to.
High school coaches in attendance had the chance to show game film and speak with college and university representatives one-on-one in regards to the educational and personal backgrounds of all prospective recruits.
"I think it's something that we're going to build on in the future," McDaniel said. "When Josh [Corey] and I and the [TFCA] board began discussing the event, our goal was maybe 40 [high schools] and 20 [colleges and universities]. For us to be where we are, it shows that coaches understand how important it is for your athletes. If you're going to get them recruited, you've got to get their name out there."
In addition to the recruiting aspect, the event also led to a boost in TFCA membership.
The TFCA was established to help maintain the highest possible standards in football and in the profession of coaching football. The TFCA offers multiple coaching clinics, resources to assist coaches with purchasing necessary equipment and generally serves as the voice for high school football in Tennessee. The TFCA also awards All State Teams, Coach of the Year, Offensive Coordinator of the Year and Defensive Coordinator of the Year.
"We are thrilled to be a part of something like this that gives youth the opportunity to further pursue their education and their athletic careers," Titans Youth Football Coordinator Josh Corey said. "This recruiting fair, which is actually the largest of its kind in the state, is one of several new initiatives we have planned to support high school football programs throughout our community."
The Titans partnered with the Tennessee Football Coaches Association (TFCA) to host the inaugural Tennessee Titans High School Football Recruiting Fair Tuesday at LP Field. (Photos: Susanna Nickell)
