Frank Bradley

Frank Bradley was the first full time Director of the Maryville-Alcoa-Blount County Parks & Recreation. One of his most notable accomplishments was the Smoky Mountain Classic softball tournament which he started in 1969. The “Smoky” started out as a regional tournament the first few years with teams mainly from East Tennessee and a few teams from neighboring states competing. Bradley courted Richard Howard for a couple of years before finally convincing him to bring his team, Howards Furniture, to compete in the 1974 Smoky Mountain Classic. Howards Furniture won the 1974 Smoky, and the years that followed continue to bring nationally ranked teams from around the country. Nelson Painting, the other big name in softball at the time, arrived in 1975 and won the tournament. The following years seen the inclusion of Campbell Carpets from California, Pepsico from New York, and Ken Sanders Ford of Georgia. By the early 80’s the Smoky Mountain Classic was considered the Premier softball tournament in the country. The Smoky was in a class of its own due to the large crowds that attended the tournament each year. Although Frank left his position as Director of Parks & Recreation in the late 70”s, he continued to be the major player in organizing the tournament each year. His involvement continued until the late 80’s

Bradley had a knack for promoting and innovation. His vision to continuously improve the Smoky is why it is so successful today. He paid special attention to the little things, which contributed to the Smoky not only being a top notch softball tournament, but a county fair atmosphere that was enjoyed by all ages.