The Stone Memorial boys soccer program is continuing to shape its identity under head coach Micah Grenz, who is working to build both immediate competitiveness and a long-term culture he believes can elevate the Panthers into one of Tennessee’s top programs.
Grenz, now in his third year with Stone Memorial and his second as head coach after serving one season as an assistant, said the foundation of his approach comes from a phrase he once heard that has stuck with him ever since.
“There’s two things that don’t graduate: tradition and passion.” Grenz said. “And if nothing else the people in Crossville have a huge passion for both our schools in our town.”
Grenz said that sense of community pride has been one of the defining strengths of working in Crossville and something he believes can help fuel growth across all Stone Memorial athletics and activities.
Grenz said one of his primary goals extends beyond community support and into competitive aspirations on the field.
“I want our program to be one of the elite teams in the state. That’s like our long term goal.” Grenz said.
Grenz said growing off-field support is an encouraging sign for the future of the program. Grenz said he has seen increased financial and community backing from people both inside and outside the Crossville area.
“That’s where it’s big.” Grenz said. “It’s one thing for someone to support a student while they’re in school and think they’re done but then when they graduate, they stop. Now we have people who have no association to us at all and it’s not just soccer, it’s basketball, it’s football, it’s, it’s all of our fine arts programs and stuff like that so as a coach, that’s where it’s been awesome to see that kind of fruition.”
Despite the challenges of building a program in a competitive district, Grenz said his commitment to Stone Memorial is personal.
“I wouldn’t do it for any other place other than Stone Memorial.” Grenz said.
As the Panthers continue to develop on the field, Grenz’s message remains centered on culture, consistency, and belief, with the long-term goal of turning that foundation into sustained success for years to come.
