A Different kind of Homecoming
BY PATRICK PEBLEY

Campbell County’s football homecoming is a chance for former students and players to enjoy their alma mater again. This year it will be a little different for one Cougar alumni.
Rodney Ellison is returning and his new team is looking to spoil the big game for the Cougars.
Ellison now coaches at Bearden, the opponent for this Cougars in this year’s homecoming game.
Ellison is in his first year at Bearden and is coaching under the legendary Bill Wilson. The Bulldogs have a renewed sense of life under the man that Knox West’s field is named after.
Ellison’s coaching journey began in 1997 at Jacksboro Middle School under another coaching legend, Johnny Bruce. He started out as the junior varsity’s offensive coordinator and coached wide receivers and defensive backs. He later became the offensive coordinator for the Eagles and switched to coaching running backs and quarterbacks. His last season with the Eagles was his finest. He was the head coach who led them to a 7-2 season and their first appearance in the TMSAA playoffs. He also is responsible for creating the Egg Bowl traveling trophy in the Jacksboro/LaFollette rivalry.
After a few years out of coaching he returned at Bearden as a member of their freshman team’s coaching staff. He is currently coaching running backs and defensive backs. On Friday night’s he is part of the Bulldog’s press box staff along with former University of Tennessee star Billy Ratliff.
When asked how it felt to be coming home as a rival Ellison said, “It’s strange. After three years of playing for the Cougars and another four years of covering them on WQLA with Victor Jennings. This time I will be on the other side.”
“I’m a Cougar deep down but I am a Bulldog now. So I hope for a big win, “ Ellison concluded.

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