Hooper Eblen was associated with Tech from 1941-1974, much of that time as the guiding force to the athletic department. Acting as the Athletic Director from 1949-74, he led the University into prominence in the OVC. He was first an assistant football coach, then head coach for three seasons from 1947-49. During his tenure, Tech won or shared 21 OVC titles, including eight in football, three each in basketball, baseball, track, and golf, and one in tennis. He helped plan Overall Field and Tucker Stadium, the tennis courts, and the convocation center which bears his name.