Ezell-Harding Announces New Associate Athletic Director, Raising Athletic Excellence at EHCS.

Antioch, TN - July 6, 2026 – Ezell-Harding Christian School is excited to announce the hiring of Pernell Knox as the school's new Associate Athletic Director, bringing to the Eagles a proven leader with decades of experience in Christian education, athletics and sports administration.

Knox joins Ezell-Harding after serving for the past ten years as the Athletic Director at Columbia Academy, where he provided leadership for one of Tennessee's premier Christian school athletic programs.

During his tenure, Columbia Academy experienced significant success across multiple sports while emphasizing excellence, character, development and a Christ-centered approach to competition. Under his leadership, Bulldog teams earned numerous district, region, and state championships while expanding opportunities for student-athletes and strengthening the school's athletic culture.

A graduate of Columbia Academy, Knox enjoyed an outstanding athletic career as a four-sport athlete before continuing his baseball career at Freed-Hardeman University. As a standout first baseman for the Lions, he earned NAIA All-American honors in both 1997 and 1998 and was later inducted into the Freed-Hardeman University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012. He is also a member of the Columbia Academy Athletics Hall of Fame, recognized for his accomplishments in basketball and baseball, including helping lead the Bulldogs to the 1994 state baseball championship.

Following his collegiate career, Knox earned a graduate degree in physical therapy and served as Head Athletic Trainer at Freed-Hardeman University before transitioning into athletic administration. His unique background in sports medicine, coaching, and leadership has equipped him to mentor student-athletes while supporting coaches and athletic programs at every level.

"We are thrilled to welcome Pernell to the Ezell-Harding community," said Athletic Director, Corry Stewart. "Pernell's passion for Christian education, his commitment to developing young people, and his extensive experience leading successful athletic programs, which makes him an outstanding addition to our athletic department. We believe he will make a tremendous impact on our coaches, student-athletes and the future of Eagle athletics." As Associate Athletic Director, Knox will work to strengthen the school's athletic programs, enhance the student-athlete experience, support coaches, and further the mission of Ezell-Harding Christian School through athletics.

"I am honored to join the Ezell-Harding family," Knox said. "I have long admired the school's commitment to Christ-centered education and athletic excellence. I look forward to serving alongside the administration, coaches, and families as we continue building a culture that develops young people spiritually, academically and athletically."

Ezell-Harding Christian School looks forward to the leadership, experience and servant-hearted approach Knox brings as the Eagles continue pursuing excellence in every aspect of their athletic program.