The Legacy of Austin Atwood: A Quarter-Century of Dedication to Johnson County Basketball
Published 1:38 pm Thursday, August 15, 2024
Johnson County basketball coach Austin Atwood
Basketball coach Austin Atwood with family
Johnson County basketball coach Austin Atwood tries to fire up his team during a game.
Johnson County basketball coach Austin Atwood tries to refocus his team during a timeout.
Johnson County basketball coach Austin Atwood works the sideline during a game.
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By C.Y. Peters
In Mountain City, where basketball is more than a game, a coach named Austin Atwood has become synonymous with Johnson County High School. For 25 years, Atwood has shaped the lives of young athletes, leaving an indelible mark on the community. His journey from a standout point guard to a celebrated coach is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the sport and the school he loves.
Early Years and Playing Career
Austin Atwood’s basketball journey began in the gyms of Johnson County. As a middle school student in the early 1980s, Atwood quickly demonstrated his potential on the court. By the time he graduated from Johnson County Middle School in 1985 and from high school in 1989, he had become a pivotal player for the Longhorns. Under the tutelage of the revered coach John Dyer, who would later make his mark at Sullivan East, Atwood honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the game. Atwood’s father, Joe Atwood, was a legendary figure in Johnson County sports, having set a record of 19 consecutive free throws in high school—a record that stood for over six decades. Joe Atwood’s influence on his son was profound, instilling in him the values of discipline, hard work, and an unyielding focus on every play. “Listen to the coach, do what he says, and pay attention to every detail,” Joe would often say, words that Austin carried with him throughout his career.
The Path to Coaching
After high school, Austin Atwood continued his basketball journey at Bluefield College, playing under former Johnson County coach Mark Blevins. This experience further solidified his love for the game and his desire to give back to the sport that had given him so much. Returning to Johnson County, Atwood began his coaching career, eager to impart the lessons he had learned to the next generation of players. His coaching style, characterized by a no-nonsense approach and a deep understanding of the game, quickly earned him respect and admiration. Atwood’s teams were known for their tenacity, discipline, and strategic prowess—traits that mirrored his own playing style.
A Quarter-Century of Excellence
As Atwood enters his 25th year as the head coach of the Johnson County Longhorns, his impact on the program is unmistakable. The gym floor now bears his name, a fitting tribute to a coach who has given so much to the school and its athletes. Atwood’s best friend and longtime assistant coach, David Arnold, has been by his side almost every step of the way. Arnold, who started his coaching career at Johnson County Middle School, has been instrumental in the team’s success, providing invaluable support and expertise. Together, Atwood and Arnold have built a program that is respected throughout the region. Their coaching philosophy, rooted in the teachings of legends like Charlie Bayless and Bobby Snyder, emphasizes the importance of fundamentals, discipline, and teamwork. Atwood’s approach to the game, often described as “hard-nosed,” reflects the values instilled in him by his father and Coach Dyer. He is a coach who believes in the power of preparation and the importance of every detail, qualities that have become the hallmark of Johnson County basketball.
A Special Bond with Rival Coach Charlie Bayless
“Every time we had a 1,000-point scorer in Mountain City, I waited until we had Happy Valley at home. It meant a lot for the kids to have Coach Charlie Bayless present them with the ball,” Atwood reminisced. Bayless, known for his sportsmanship and support for young athletes, would always say, “It was always an honor, Austin.” Those moments were special for everyone involved, highlighting a deep respect that transcended rivalry and united them in their shared dedication to nurturing young talent and celebrating achievements on the court.
Coaching His Sons
Austin Atwood has had the unique privilege of coaching his sons, Blake and Carter. In 2019, Blake was nominated as a TSSAA Mr. Basketball finalist, led the team to sub-state, and became the all-time leading scorer. This achievement underscored the bond between father and son, both on and off the court. Now, Austin looks forward to coaching his youngest son, Carter, who will be a freshman this year. The experience of guiding both his sons through their basketball journeys has been immensely rewarding, blending family and passion into a fulfilling coaching career.
Beyond the Court
Atwood’s influence extends far beyond the basketball court. As the youngest of Joe Atwood’s three children, Austin grew up in a family where sports were a way of life. His brother Mike Atwood also made his mark in Johnson County, serving as the head football coach and contributing to the school’s rich athletic tradition. Austin’s connection to the community is deep and personal. He understands that a great coach does more than teach the game; he shapes lives. “A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life,” Atwood often says, embodying this philosophy in his interactions with his players. He is known for his ability to connect with young athletes, providing guidance and mentorship that extends beyond basketball. His players respect him not just for his knowledge of the game but for his genuine care and commitment to their growth as individuals.
The Future
As Austin Atwood prepares for another season with the Longhorns, his dedication to the team and the community remains as strong as ever. The gym floor bearing his name serves as a constant reminder of his contributions and the legacy he continues to build. With David Arnold by his side and a new generation of players eager to learn, the future of Johnson County basketball looks bright.
Atwood’s journey from a young point guard to a revered coach is a story of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For 25 years, he has been the heart and soul of Johnson County basketball, a true testament to the power of sports to shape lives and build community. As the Longhorns take the court this season, they do so with the knowledge that they are part of a legacy that stretches back decades—a legacy built by a coach who has given his all for the game and the school he loves.
