Coach Sparks Named 2013 Jefferson Countian of the Year

Throughout his 33-year career as Eagles Head Football Coach, Ken Sparks has accumulated many accolades. On January 26, he was presented another award: the 2013 Jefferson Countian of the Year.

The award was given at the conclusion of the annual Chamber of Commerce Banquet held at C-N’s Stokely Cafeteria.

Representatives from First Tennessee Bank presented Sparks with the recognition of his successful career and altruistic life.

Anyone following C-N football during the last 33 years knows how remarkable Sparks’ coaching career has been. However, it wasn’t the 308 wins, five NAIA football championships, or the three runner-up finishes in NCAA Division II that garnered Sparks the moniker “Jefferson Countian of the year.” Instead it is the daily role he plays in the lives of students, athletes, and fellow coaches.

Upon accepting the award from First Tennessee Regional Vice-President Jim Millsaps, Sparks said, “I’m glad there’s a place still in existence like Carson-Newman that has a vision of touching lives wanting to be a difference-maker and honoring the Lord — and lets a guy like me hang out all these years.”