The world of college sports was taken by complete surprise Wednesday evening after the shock announcement that Alabama’s Nick Saban, will be retiring after 17 seasons at the helm of the Crimson Tide.
Saban won a record seven national championships during his time coaching in the NCAA, one at LSU and six at Alabama. His overall record as a head coach was 297-71-1.
As news of the surprise retirement spread, Alabama’s legislative leaders paid their respects to arguably the greatest coach in college football’s history.
U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, former head coach of the Auburn Tigers from 1999-2008 — Alabama’s only elected official to actually square off against Saban on the field — said his accomplishments as a coach may never be equaled.
Congratulations Nick Saban on a historic career. pic.twitter.com/hk4dNE45ma
— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) January 11, 2024
U.S. Senator Katie Britt, a graduate of the University of Alabama, called Saban the greatest coach in the history of athletics.
Thank you, Coach Saban. The greatest of all time. pic.twitter.com/lRAX9LGMcM
— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) January 11, 2024
U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), also an Alabama grad, simply referred to Saban as the greatest of all time.
College football won’t be the same. You are the GOAT Coach Saban. Roll Tide. #rtr pic.twitter.com/B4fUtG6G8L
— Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt) January 10, 2024
U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Monrovia) wished Saban well and a happy retirement, along with his wife, Mrs. Terry Saban.
Congratulations to Coach Saban on a well deserved retirement. After 7 national titles and 11 SEC championships, Coach Saban has undoubtedly secured his place as one of the greatest coaches in college football history. Enjoy your retirement with Ms. Terry, Coach! pic.twitter.com/07ihAo5UyY
— Dale W. Strong (@RepDaleStrong) January 11, 2024
Governor Kay Ivey called Saban and his wife “tremendous Alabamians.”
Nick Saban will go down as one of the best in college football, and in Alabama, in our culture, that means something. He and Terry are also tremendous Alabamians who have given so much to the Tuscaloosa community and our entire state. For you, Coach, I’ll say: Roll Tide!
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) January 11, 2024
Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth thanked Saban on behalf of the entire state.
Nick Saban coached countless young men to be outstanding athletes and men of character. Congratulations, Coach Saban, on a legendary tenure at the University of Alabama. The entire state appreciates your contributions to the University and the Tuscaloosa community.
— Will Ainsworth (@willainsworthAL) January 10, 2024
Alabama Senate Pro Tem Greg Reed (R-Jasper) noted that during his time at Alabama, Saban was a model leader whose impact will be, “felt for generations.”
Nick Saban’s legacy and standard of excellence has been a model for every leader and an inspiration for players, coaches, and fans. His contributions to @UofAlabama, Tuscaloosa, and state of Alabama will be felt for generations. Thank you, Coach. 🐐https://t.co/STPjpMZVr1
— Senator Greg Reed (@SenatorGregReed) January 10, 2024
The University of Alabama announced Wednesday evening that it plans to have the head coaching position filled within 72 hours.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
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