At 97, a longtime University of Alabama football referee continues supporting the Crimson Tide, remaining active and dedicated to the team after decades of service.
In the world of college football, few names carry as much tradition and pride as the University of Alabama. From national championships to legendary coaches and players, Alabama football has carved out a legacy of greatness. Yet, beyond the roaring crowds and thrilling touchdowns, there are figures who have contributed to the spirit and consistency of the game in quieter but equally meaningful ways. One such individual is a longtime referee who, at the remarkable age of 97, continues to be involved with Alabama football, showing a level of dedication and passion that is as inspiring as it is rare.
This referee, whose career spans multiple generations of athletes, coaches, and fans, began officiating games during an era when college football looked vastly different from the high-tech, media-saturated spectacle we see today. Back then, games were simpler, stadiums smaller, and television coverage minimal. Despite the passage of time and the evolution of the sport, this individual remained a constant presence—first on the field, calling plays with a sharp eye and steady hand, and now in other roles, still contributing to the Crimson Tide’s football legacy.
To remain active and connected to the sport at the age of 97 is nothing short of extraordinary. Most people at that age are well into retirement, enjoying quiet lives away from the demands of any professional responsibilities. But for this veteran referee, the game of football is more than just a pastime—it’s a lifelong calling. Whether he is mentoring younger referees, attending practices, participating in team events, or simply offering advice from the sidelines, his presence continues to make a difference.
His commitment serves as a reminder of what makes college football—and particularly Alabama football—so special. It’s not just about winning games or collecting trophies. It’s also about the people who give their time, energy, and heart to the sport year after year, even when the spotlight isn’t on them. While players and coaches often receive the bulk of public attention, it’s individuals like this referee who embody the enduring spirit of the game.
The University of Alabama has long been known for its emphasis on excellence, tradition, and loyalty. These values are reflected in the story of this referee’s ongoing involvement. His decades of service weren’t just about making correct calls on the field; they were about upholding the integrity of the game, ensuring fairness, and supporting the team and the broader football community in any way he could.
Even now, at nearly a century old, he remains sharp, alert, and enthusiastic about football. His longevity is a testament not only to his physical resilience but also to his mental and emotional strength. It’s no easy feat to stay involved in such a fast-paced, physically demanding sport, but his love for the game seems to defy the limitations of age. It is this love that keeps him coming back season after season, eager to lend his experience to the next generation.
Younger referees and players often look up to him as a mentor and role model. Having someone with nearly a century of life experience—and most of it tied in some way to football—is an invaluable asset to any team. His stories about how the game used to be, the legendary athletes he’s seen, and the countless challenges he’s faced over the years offer insights that can’t be found in any playbook. Through his wisdom, he teaches others that football is not just about athleticism, but also about character, dedication, and teamwork.
Off the field, his story is one of perseverance, discipline, and a deep sense of purpose. He has witnessed societal changes, technological revolutions, and shifts in sports culture, yet through it all, he has remained a steady figure in the Alabama football landscape. His long-standing commitment to officiating also highlights the importance of the “third team” on the field—referees, who often go unnoticed but are critical to the functioning and fairness of the game.
Over the years, he has seen Alabama football rise to incredible heights, including multiple national championships, Heisman Trophy winners, and legendary coaching tenures. And while his role may not have involved drawing up plays or scoring touchdowns, his contributions have been just as impactful. He represents a living bridge between the past and present, someone who has seen the program grow and evolve, and who continues to support it with unwavering loyalty.
As the Crimson Tide prepares for another season, fans and staff alike continue to take inspiration from this remarkable man. His story is shared in locker rooms and offices as a symbol of what it means to truly love and serve the game. It’s a narrative that speaks to commitment that doesn’t fade with age, to passion that continues even when the body slows, and to a spirit that refuses to retire.
In today’s fast-moving world, where attention spans are short and loyalty can be fleeting, the dedication shown by this 97-year-old is deeply moving. He reminds us that love for the game is not bound by age, fame, or physical ability. It’s a lifelong connection that continues to thrive in those who choose to keep giving, even when they’ve already given so much.
His continued involvement is not only a tribute to Alabama football, but also to the power of sports to inspire, unite, and uplift. He proves that age is just a number, and that purpose can fuel a person’s life far beyond what most think possible. While his days of running up and down the sidelines may be behind him, his impact runs deep—etched into the fabric of a program that prides itself on excellence, both on and off the field.
So as Alabama gears up for another run at glory, they do so with the quiet strength of one of their longest-serving members still by their side. At 97, he may not wear a whistle around his neck anymore, but his legacy is loud and clear—a testament to what it means to truly support a team through every era, every season, and every challenge.
And as long as he is able, there’s no doubt he’ll continue to help the Tide roll.
