Ooltewah High School coach Benny Monroe directs the team as they warm up for a game at Ooltewah. Staff File PhotoWhether he’s playing golf, fishing or even just catching up on his “honey-do” list at home, Benny Monroe’s thoughts often drift back to the football field.
Even in retirement, after more than 30 years of stalking sidelines, one of the Chattanooga area’s most successful high school coaches can’t get away from the game.
“Jane and I would pick a different game to go to and just watch last year,” Monroe said, referring to weekly road trips with his wife. “There’s something about the atmosphere of being at a game on Friday nights, and when I’m not there I miss it.
“I still think about the game a lot and miss being on the sideline with the boys and the adrenaline rush you get during the game.”
Monroe guided three area programs to success that has been unmatched by the coaches who followed him at those schools. and he retired with a 259-65 overall record.