Ranking Rankin

Tornado coach nears state record with grace

Alcoa starters celebrate Friday’s first round playoff win over Johnson County. Photos by Jolanda Jansma

By Stefan Cooper
Editor
Blount Press Row

A kinder, gentler Gary Rankin just isn’t going to happen, but he smiles more now.

Alcoa coach Gary Rankin receives the game ball from Alcoa athletics director Josh Stephens after becoming the school’s all-time winningest coach last season. With three more wins, Rankin will own the state record as well. Photo by G.W. Meridith

It’s not so much some of the edge has worn off through the years. The Alcoa coach has simply become more selective. Take this exchange during the closing minutes of the top-ranked Tornadoes’ 62-14 win over Johnson County on Friday.