Craig Pritchett 

2025 Inductee

Ridgeland High School proudly inducts Craig Pritchett, class of 1999, into its Athletics Hall of Fame, recognizing his exceptional achievements and enduring impact both on and off the field. A four-year letterman in football and a two-year letterman in track, Craig’s dedication and talent were instrumental in the historic 1998 football season, where the team achieved their first-ever Region Co-championship and hosted their first-ever playoff game – milestones that remain etched in Ridgeland's athletic history.

Craig's individual accolades at Ridgeland were equally impressive. He earned All Tri-State and twice garnered All North Georgia honors, showcasing his dominance on the field. His leadership qualities were evident as Team Captain, guiding his teammates with passion and determination. Beyond his athletic prowess, Craig excelled academically, earning the Team Academic Award, Scholar Athlete of the Week recognition, and the prestigious Coca-Cola Scholar Athlete Award. His outstanding achievements were further acknowledged with the honor of having his jersey retired, a testament to his lasting legacy at Ridgeland High School.

Continuing his pursuit of excellence at the collegiate level, Craig left a lasting mark on Tusculum University's football program. He was a key contributor to the team's first-ever Conference Co-championship in 2003 and was deservedly inducted into their Sports Hall of Fame. His exceptional character and commitment to service were recognized with his selection to the prestigious AFCA Good Works Team. On the field, Craig earned numerous accolades, including D2football.com All-American honors, Daktronics All-South Region recognition, and twice being named an All-Conference Linebacker. He was also a three-time Pre-Season All-Conference selection and remarkably served as Team Captain for all four years of his collegiate career. His outstanding performances earned him recognition as the D2football.com National Defensive Player of the Week and the South Atlantic Conference Defensive Player of the Week.

Craig's commitment to academics at Tusculum was equally remarkable. He graduated Magna Cum Laude and received the President's Award, the highest honor bestowed by his university. He was a two-time South Atlantic Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year, a two-time Verizon Academic All-District selection, and was recognized as the South Atlantic Conference Defensive Freshman of the Year. His academic achievements also included being a National Football Hall of Fame Scholar Athlete Representative, an Eisenhower Scholar Society Nominee, and earning recognition with the Key Achievement in Visual Arts award. He consistently earned a place on the President's List, Dean's List, Charles Oliver Gray List, SAC Commissioner's Honor Roll, and Athletic Director's Honor Roll.

Craig Pritchett is an educator and a football coach.  He has been the head football coach at Brevard (NC) High School and at Ridgeland.  While at Brevard, he was a two time conference champion.  Craig is a loving husband to Susanne, and a proud father to Braylon and Chesney.  Craig Pritchett embodies the true spirit of a Ridgeland Panther. His exceptional athletic achievements, coupled with his outstanding academic record and unwavering leadership, serve as an inspiration to all. We are honored to welcome him into the Ridgeland High School Athletics Hall of Fame.