Join us for “Rock Reflections,” a series celebrating Trinity alumni. From 48 states to countries worldwide, our graduates are making an impact, and we'll share their stories on Trinity's website and social media.
This week, we’re reflecting with Tim Phillips '09
Superman attended Trinity High School.
Tim Phillips, as he was also known, found his path to greatness at Trinity. His infectious confidence and smile inspired those around him to also achieve success. He was called Superman in the classroom and on the football field.
Tim was as member of the National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes and powerlifting team. He also played running back for three football state title teams (2006, 2007, 2008). After a championship game versus Simon Kenton, most of their players wanted a photo with him.
Tim finished his Trinity career as the school’s all-time leading rusher with 4,587 yards and ranked 18th in commonwealth history with 76 career rushing touchdowns. He also was an All-State first team selection and rushed for at least 100 yards in 10 consecutive playoff games over his final two seasons.
Tim earned a football scholarship to Central Michigan University. The Chippewas finished the 2009 season ranked No. 23 and as MAC and GMAC Bowl champions. Tim earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering the summer before his senior year. He had a year of eligibility remaining but probably would not have as much playing time as previous years. Tim transferred to Austin Peay State University. He was named captain after one semester.
After graduating, Tim went on to train for the NFL for two years. He trained twice a day for five days per week with Trinity alumni Corey Taylor ’95 and Brian Brohm ’04. He signed with an agent in 2015, but it did not pan out.
Tim contacted U C Synergetic, a hiring company doing contract work for AT&T. He worked there for a year and a half while training and attending football tryouts. AT&T offered Tim a job in the engineering department designing blueprints for fiber-optic cabling to provide for construction teams.
In 2024, Tim moved to Open Fiber Kentucky, which provided fiber-optic blueprints for 175 schools. He is currently a project engineer at Lumos, one of the world’s largest Fortune 500 telecommunications companies. Lumos signed a joint venture with T-Mobile to deploy T fiber, Tim covers the Southern Indiana and Indianapolis regions.
What follows is an interview with Tim.
Why did you choose Trinity for high school?
It was actually a decision made by my parents. After graduating from Noe Middle School, I applied to go to duPont Manual High School and Butler. I was unable to get into either school.
My father passed away while I was in eighth grade at Noe. He had said that if it was at all possible, he would like for me to go to Trinity. He was impressed with its academic reputation as well as its athletics.
When did you receive the “Superman” nickname?
My English teacher, Jennifer Solinger, nominated me to be interviewed by Candyce Clifft on the “WDRB in the Morning” news program. I was getting ready that morning and my mom grabbed a Superman tie and told me to wear it. The movie “Superman Returns” had just come out. I wore that tie every day after that, and the name stuck.
Do you have any family members who attend/attended Trinity?
Yes, many! Seth Graves ’20, Spincer Graves ’17, Ashton Taylor ’28, James Quick ’13, Maalik Little ’29, Corey Taylor ’95, Melvyn Little ’09, Caleb Hammon ’09, and Jordan Whiting ’09.
What’s your favorite memory from your time at Trinity?
My homeroom was with Coach Eddie Rudolph H’95. There was a guy I became friends with. One day, music was being played and he and I danced. Coach Rudolph remembers that story to this day. He needed a lift, so we danced in front of the whole class.
What do you remember about day-to-day life at Trinity?
I remember how much love that spread through this place. What I remember most isn’t a single class, event or tradition; it was the culture. There was an unmistakable sense that you were part of something larger than yourself. Every day reinforced the idea that excellence was expected, character mattered and every individual was accountable not only for their own actions but for contributing to our school.
The days were structured and demanding – in the best possible way. Whether it was beginning the morning with prayer, moving from class to class, interacting with teachers who genuinely cared, or spending time with teammates and classmates, there was a consistent emphasis on discipline, respect and personal responsibility. Those expectations were woven into everyday life rather than reserved for special occasions.
One of the things that stands out most in my memory is that the faculty and coaches knew us beyond our names or grades. They took a genuine interest in who we were becoming as young men. They challenged us when we fell short, encouraged us when we struggled and celebrated our successes. They always reminded us that our character mattered more than our accomplishments.
There was also a strong sense of brotherhood among the students. We came from different backgrounds and experiences, but Trinity created an environment where we learned from one another, pushed one another and developed friendships built on mutual respect.
Looking back, I realize that the routines of daily life at Trinity were quietly transformative. The habits that seemed ordinary at the time, like being on time, treating people well, taking pride in your work, persevering through challenges and holding yourself to a higher standard, became the principles that shaped my adult life. Those daily experiences formed a foundation that has remained with me long after graduation.
Who were some of your favorite teachers/coaches?
Bob Maddox H’07, James Torra H’12, Bob Beatty H’03, Bill Cubbage H’14, Mary Emrich H’09, Devian Logan ’91, Walter Mata, Rob Mullen ’77, Gary Owens ’88, William Leach Sr., Andrew Coverdale H’07, Lee Handel ’00, Eddie Rudolph H’95, Barry Swearingen, Chad Waggoner H’20, Dan Zoeller H’07, Roxanne Benson, Henry Jackson, Ken Ellenbrand H’07, Mike Magre ’83, Steve Furman, and Jennifer Solinger.
What effect did Trinity have on your life?
Trinity gave me an outstanding education and helped shape my identity during one of the most formative and fragile times of my life.
The loss of my father left a void. But Trinity provided something I needed: great role models. People invested in my potential. At a time when I needed guidance most, teachers and coaches recognized possibilities for me. Trinity is a community that believed in me. For those gifts, I remain profoundly grateful, and they continue to shape my life every day.
Why do you support Trinity years after graduating?
Supporting Trinity is my way of honoring the people who invested in me and ensuring that future generations have access to the same life-changing opportunities. I believe every young man deserves mentors who see potential in him before he sees it in himself,
If my support can help even one young man discover his purpose, develop his character and realize his potential, then it’s one of the most meaningful investments I can make.
Share an alumni story!
Do you know a Trinity alumnus with a compelling story? Please reach out to Travis Wagoner '90, Alumni Relations & Communications, at 502-736-2122 or wagoner@trinityrocks.com.
A History of Greatness
Since 1953, Trinity has benefitted from great teachers, resources, and activities to shape and guide promising boys into great men. The 106 students from our first graduating class have been followed by a legacy of academic, personal and cultural achievement. To learn more about our proud heritage, visit https://www.trinityrocks.com/o/trinityfoundation/page/about-us.
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