Alabama Football: Tragedy Puts Football into Perspective

Larry Burton (Syndicated Writer)

This was to be a week of joy for Alabama's current players.

Finals would be over and summer vacation was about to start. Many of their departing players were seeking employment through the NFL Draft, and as for me: my wife and I were getting to go to Key Largo to see my son, who moved there to work for Rainbow Reef Dive Center and relax with him and some good friends, do some diving, watch the NFL draft and party.

Then—instead of enjoying everything—came the tornadoes that killed so many Alabamians and changed the focus of the whole week. Suddenly, football news, the NFL draft and dreams of summer vacations all took a back seat to the tornadoes and the needs of those who endured its wrath.

Finals were canceled at the University of Alabama, students could take the grade they had or simply reschedule the final later, football players—who were looking forward to going home or hitting their favorite vacation spot—now looked for places to volunteer to help the injured along with many of the students and faculty of the University.

Those going through the NFL draft couldn't fully celebrate their day while worrying about the city that had become so beloved to them. Saban flew back from the Crimson Caravan to see if he could help in any way.

Each mentioned in their statements to the press, their love and concern for what was going on in their beloved adopted home town.

Suddenly, football, rivalries and boundaries meant little.

Help started arriving from all corners of the country including Alabama's in-state rival Auburn.

Volunteers were seen wearing Auburn caps and Alabama tee shirts, clearly showing support for both schools secondly, and the needs of the victims first.

Other schools, especially Penn State, wanted to do things to help the victims who had showed them such courtesy and sportsmanship this past year when they visited our campus.

All this reminded America that some things are more important than football; some things transcend rivalries, and when the chips are down, there are people in this much need—these things come first.

If made me proud not just to be from Alabama, but also, a part of the college football community.

If you would like to help with Tuscaloosa's recovery and rebuilding efforts, you may donate or volunteer with the local West Alabama relief agencies listed below, or contact the City of Tuscaloosa for more information on how to help.

American Red Cross - West Alabama Chapter

Or give blood to your local Red Cross Chapter

United Way of West Alabama