Former Alabama Crimson Tide standout Justin Thomas is making headlines with a massive donation of $1 million to the Crimson Standard — UA’s athletics facilities improvement fund — which will be used towards the new men and women’s golf facility known as the Crimson Reserve.
The donation was announced in an official release by the athletic department as Thomas detailed what the program means to him.
“It’s hard to put into words the love and feelings I have for The University of Alabama,” said Thomas. “I was so lucky to be able to spend two incredible years playing under Coach Seawell. He and his wife, Stephanie, were, and still are, like family to me. This dream of making the Crimson Reserve couldn’t be done without Coach Seawell and Coach Potter and what they’ve done with the programs. I’m honored to have a very small part in it.”
“Alabama Athletics is incredibly grateful to Justin for his commitment and support of the Crimson Reserve and our golf programs,” Greg Byrne said. “We are proud to have one of our finest student-athletes give back to his sport, both financially and with his input on designing our world-class facility.”
Alabama men’s golf coach Jay Seawell and women’s coach Mic Potter each thanked Thomas as well and talked about their gratitude for his presence.
“I am so proud of Justin and thankful for what he’s meant to our program and The University of Alabama,” said Seawell. “He is a big part of the legacy of Alabama golf. It means so much that he would be willing to give back to the golf programs. His impact while at the Capstone and his success on the PGA Tour continues to inspire our current players and his gift will impact young men and women who choose Alabama golf for years to come. This gift reflects the kindness and character of Justin and his family and their commitment to the future success of Alabama golf. We could not be more grateful for his generosity and love of The University of Alabama.”
“Alabama women’s golf is extremely grateful for Justin’s commitment to not only the Crimson Reserve, but also his investment in our student-athletes,” said Potter “Justin Thomas’ impact on Alabama Golf goes beyond the course, and we are thankful that he is giving back to the sport that he excelled in during his time at Alabama and currently in the PGA.”
Thomas has won 16 times on the PGA Tour including two Majors, a PLAYERS Championship, and a FedEx Cup Championship. He reached a ranking of No. 1 in the world in 2018 and continues to compete for victories week after week, all while representing Alabama as he does it.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.
