Curtis Wells 

2025 Inductee

Ridgeland High School proudly inducts Curtis Wells into its Athletics Hall of Fame, recognizing his profound and lasting impact on the school's athletic programs from their very inception. A lifelong resident of Rossville, Curtis embodied the spirit of community and dedicated countless hours to supporting the youth of Rossville and, later, Ridgeland.

After graduating from Rossville High School in 1963, Curtis served his country in the United States Air Force before embarking on a distinguished 37-year career with Norfolk Southern Railroad. Even with his professional commitments, Curtis remained deeply invested in his community. He was an active member of the Rossville Jaycees, where his dedication shone brightly through his tireless work with their annual Christmas Toy Drive, ensuring countless children experienced the joy of the holiday season.

Curtis's commitment to local youth extended to the athletic fields of Rossville Recreation, where he volunteered as a coach for over a decade. He mentored hundreds of young athletes in baseball and football, instilling in them not only the fundamentals of the games but also the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. His dedication went beyond the field, as it was common to see Curtis transporting players to and from practice, a testament to his unwavering support.

As the Rossville and Chattanooga Valley High School communities came together to form Ridgeland High School, Curtis played a pivotal role in establishing its athletic foundation. He was instrumental in creating the Ridgeland High School Athletic Booster Club and proudly served as its first president for over ten years. Under his leadership, the Booster Club became a vital fundraising arm for all sports teams. Curtis tirelessly sold thousands of hats, T-shirts, and programs, ensuring each team had the necessary supplies and equipment to succeed. His passion for unity was evident as he reached out to previous supporters from Rossville and Chattanooga Valley High Schools, fostering a sense of shared pride and encouraging their continued support for the new Panther teams.

Curtis's contributions extended beyond fundraising. He was hands-on in the development of every athletic field at Ridgeland High School, dedicating his time and energy to laying sod, installing sprinkler systems, and grading the grounds. His vision and determination were crucial in the construction of the current football stadium. Recognizing the future potential of the Panther football program, Curtis advocated for a larger stadium than initially planned, confidently stating that Ridgeland would win and would need a venue capable of hosting home playoff games – a foresight that has proven true.

Beyond his organizational and physical contributions, Curtis possessed a remarkable ability to connect with young people. He had a special empathy for those who needed extra support and always had a ready joke to bring a smile to their faces. His genuine care and unwavering encouragement left a lasting impact on countless student-athletes.

Curtis Wells was more than just a booster club president; he was a foundational pillar of Ridgeland High School Athletics. His tireless dedication, his vision for the future, and his profound commitment to the well-being of young athletes have created a legacy that continues to benefit the Panther community today. We are honored to enshrine Curtis Wells in the Ridgeland High School Athletics Hall of Fame.