Three VFLs Selected to Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame

Earlier this week, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame announced three Tennessee legends as selections to its ranks. According to a press release from Tennessee, Bill Bates, Todd Helton, and Reggie Johnson will be inductees in the 2021 class, as Bob Kesling announced on Monday during Vol Calls.

"We are excited to name this VFL trio to the 2021 Class of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame," Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Executive Director Brad Willis said. "Their accomplishments across three different sports, both collegiately and professionally, are great stories of dedication and perseverance."

Bates starred on the gridiron for Tennessee from 1979-82. He totaled 255 tackles throughout his career. Bates went on to win three Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys as a professional. He racked up 676 tackle tackles and 14 interceptions over his 15-year career.

Helton, a member of Tennessee's football and baseball program, made his name on the baseball diamond. After being named the 1995 Collegiate Player of the Year, Helton went on to set multiple franchise records during his 17-year professional career with the Colorado Rockies.

Johnson starred on the hardwood during his time in Knoxville. He was a two-time all-American and three-time all-SEC selection. In 1977, Johnson hit 64.5 percent of his shots from the field to lead the SEC in field goal percentage. Johnson was drafted 15th overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs and won a championship in 1983 as a member of the 76ers.

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