Ellie was a four-time All-State wrestler

Mize is SHS male honoree

By Steve Williams

Ellie Underwood brought special achievements to Seymour High and the Sevier County School system during her high school career.

Her talent was in girls wrestling, the fastest growing sport on the prep level nationwide.

Since 2022, boys’ participation in wrestling is up 25 percent. But girls’ wrestling has gone further, having quintupled since 2013.

Underwood, the SHS female Student-Athlete of the Year, is the school’s first four-year All-State athlete and first four-time state medalist.

Ellie also was the first TSSAA female wrestling champion in Sevier County.

In February, she brought home the state title at the 107-pound weight class and her career record ended with 136 wins and 15 losses.

“So many young athletes are so afraid of failure they set easily attained goals – Not Ellie,” said Coach Darrell Lauderdale. “She never let adversity or failures break her. She simply is one of the most dedicated and hard working athletes I have ever had the honor to coach!”

Sam Mize, cross country and track runner, is Seymour’s male honoree. He set three individual school records (the 800 and 1,500-meter runs and the 2k steeplechase) plus ran on the record-setting Distance Medley Relay team.

“Sam is a rare athlete who comes around perhaps once in a coaching career,” said Jordan Donaldson. “Coaching Sam has been a privilege, and getting to know him has been even more rewarding. We will miss his constant positivity and leadership.”

Seymour Athletic Director Joel Hall also commended the two honorees. “Ellie Underwood and Sam Mize should give everyone a true look at Seymour High School Athletics – Great kids who work hard, represent their school, and achieve greatness! Seymour High has been blessed to have Ellie and Sam represent us! GO EAGLES!”