Behind the Stats: Tennessees Coaching Legends

As an author, I couldn't be happier with the previous notes about Carlton Flatt. I'm from the school of any publicity is good publicity. However, I'm going to step out on a limb and say that not everyone who chimed in has read "Behind the Stats." If you had read the book, you would know that there are eight other coaches included. Pat Summitt, Ed Temple, Rick Byrd and Ken Dugan come to mind immediately as people who personify the word coach.Yes, there is a chapter on Coach Flatt; a fair chapter on Coach Flatt. Even though I don't necessarily agree with everything that he has done in his career, one thing Flatt did was bring players to the spotlight who might not have been there otherwise. Several of his players went on to earn a scholarship to play in college. Some may have played in college without attending Brentwood Academy, but many might not have gotten that opportunity. Now, if you feel that high school football state titles are more important than a player receiving a chance to go to college, then so be it. Personally, I respect any high school coach who can help his/her student-athletes reach college.But again, remember there are other great coaches in this book. As it says above, there are a ton of legendary coaches in the state of Tennessee, but these are nine (eight if Flatt's not your favorite) perfect examples.

With all of the talk about Carlton Flatt, I felt I needed to read the book. Since reading it, I have a better understanding of Flatt and his program. I was never a fan of his until reading this book. He has definitely been mistaken. By the way, he even admits that he "recruited" players at Brentwood Academy. But then again, what private school doesn't! By the way, the rest of the book was very interesting, also, including the chapter on former Tennessee State track coach, Ed Temple.

Behind the Stats is a very informative look into what it takes to be a "legendary" coach in the eyes of fans, other coaches, and players. As the title indicates, Fulks goes beyond the wins and losses to give a unique insight to 9 of the top coaches from the state of Tennessee (7 college coaches and 2 high school coaches). Living in Tennessee, I thought I knew everything about all of these coaches. In an easy-to-read format, Fulks proved that I didn't know everything. My wife even read it and loved it (and she's not even a sports fan)! It looks like Matt Fulks has another book coming out soon...I can't wait!! If it's anything like Behind the Stats, it'll be a terrific book.

Fulks is simply 'Smooth as Silk.'