On Thursday, the University of Alabama announced with a heavy heart that former athletic director and player Bill Battle had died at the age of 82.
Forever Crimson Tide
— Alabama Athletics (@UA_Athletics) November 28, 2024
Former Alabama administrator and student-athlete, coach and licensing pioneer Bill Battle passes away at 82
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“It’s difficult to put into words just how much Coach Battle means to The University of Alabama and college athletics, as a whole,” athletic director Greg Byrne said. “He excelled in so many areas and was a true visionary.”
A native of Birmingham, Alabama, he started playing tight end for the Crimson Tide in 1960. He would spend three years as a student-athlete, compiling 23 receptions, 369 yards, and four touchdowns.
He was also a part of the team that won the National Championship in 1961.
In 2013, Battle became the athletic director of his alma mater, and during that time, the Crimson Tide won two National Championships.
His contributions to Alabama will always be a part of the school’s history.
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Bill Battle Also Had A Coaching Career
It’s also worth noting that Battle had a very successful coaching career for the Tennessee Volunteers.
He spent seven years in Knoxville, where he had a 59-22-2 record and never had a single losing season.
Battle is a rare case of someone succeeding at four different college football positions.
