Re: Coach Nick Saban—“Protect College Sports” really?

Dear Editor,

In 1974, as a University of Alabama undergraduate student majoring in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, I was thrilled at attending home football games. At the time, I gave little thought to the late “Bear” Bryant—who shares my September 11 birthday—smoking cigarettes on the sidelines. Today, at age 74, my perspective has evolved. It is hypocritical for the Alabama football team to continue its tradition of lighting victory cigars after defeating Tennessee, especially in a state where tobacco use claims more than 8,600 lives annually. Even Coach Nick Saban has routinely joined in despite recently starring in a “Built on Tradition” commercial aimed at protecting college sports. If we truly want to safeguard the tradition and health of college athletics—and protect the innocent children who look up to these figures—lawmakers and sports authorities must implement comprehensive, highly visible no-tobacco policies for all athletes and staff in the public eye.

(In 1974, the University of Alabama School of Public Health stated that my undergraduate grades were not sufficient to enter their graduate program.) 

With compassion,

Mike Sawyer, Master of Divinity, former Mayor of Midland City, AL (1984-88)

2024 Humanitarian of the Year award at my favorite “high needs” middle school

Youth advocate & activist since 1983

Denver, CO

Text: 205-515-1560

Email: msawyer911@gmail.com