Cummings ‘resigns’ from Oak Ridge football post
Scott Cummings enjoyed the moment in the TSSAA football playoffs, and his ’Cats’ come-from-behind win over McMinn County. It would be his last win guiding the Wild- cats; he resigned last week. (photo:Ken Leinart )
The coach and the school parted ways Friday after he was informed that the administration wasn’t happy with the direction of the program.
Cummings, who previously served as coach at West, Cleveland, and Halls, resigned after a meeting with school administration.
ORHS principal Drayton Hawkins issued a press release explaining Cummings’ departure.
“Oak Ridge Schools can confirm that coach Scott Cummings is no longer employed as the head football coach at Oak Ridge High School,” Hawkins said in the release. “Because this involves a personnel matter, however, Oak Ridge Schools will have no further comment at this time, other than to wish coach Cummings the best moving forward.”
Under Cummings’ guidance, the Wildcats finished 7-6 in 2022 and made an appearance in the TSSAA Class 5A quarterfinals, where they lost to Powell 43-13. The postseason run followed a campaign in which Oak Ridge finished second to the Panthers in the regular-season standings.
Cummings, who departs Oak Ridge nearly one year after being hired, coached at West (his alma mater), where he won a Class 5A state championship in 2014.
He was on Sutherland Avenue for 12 seasons before coaching at Cleveland High School for four seasons and heading the Red Devils’ program.
He was disappointed as he posted on social media via Twitter.
He tweeted: “Dear Oak Ridge players, Staff and Community. This morning following a meeting with Oak Ridge School administration I was informed that the direction of the football program was not in the vision of Oak Ridge Schools so I am resigning. I am truly heartbroken.
“To my players, I in no way want to leave you. I love you all very much. Once my guys, always my guys.
“I was looking forward to our growth beginning after Christmas break for 2023. Please know I am still here for you. —Scott Cummings.”