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On Wednesday it was reported that Nick Saban was retiring as the head coach for the University of Alabama’s football program.
After taking the position in 2007, Saban led the Crimson Tide to 6 championships in 17 seasons. News of his retirement elicited reactions from many Alabamians including lawmakers and other public figures. Several politicos made statements thanking Saban for his tenure and impact on the state.
Here are several of those statements:
Gov. Kay Ivey – “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!”
Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth – “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.”
U.S. Sen. Katie Britt – “In a place Where Legends are Made, one legend now towers above the rest. Since 2007, Coach Saban has redefined not only the Alabama football program, but the entire college football landscape. I believe that what he accomplished on the field was the greatest coaching job in the history of athletics. But his incredible impact on the University of Alabama, the Tuscaloosa community, and the state of Alabama extends well beyond the boundaries of Bryant-Denny Stadium. Throughout his unmatched career, he has coached with inspiration, intelligence, and integrity, all while holding his players and coaching staff to that same standard of unrelenting, unassuming excellence. Coach Saban is also the first to say that his success is not his alone. I have no doubt that without his wife, the one-and-only ‘Miss Terry,’ Coach Saban would not have reached the pinnacle of achievement. The Sabans’ legacy will be defined by the countless number of lives they changed for the better. Always generous of their time, talent, and resources, consistently conducting themselves with class, character, and grace, Miss Terry and Coach Saban modeled the way for generations to follow—while bonding generations of Alabamians and Crimson Tide fans together across the daunting divides that define much of our day and age. We truly owe the Sabans an immeasurable amount of gratitude. My family and I extend our warmest wishes to the entire Saban family on this next season of life and congratulate Coach Saban on his remarkable career.”
U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville – “As a close friend and competitor for decades, I want to congratulate Nick Saban on a historic coaching career that achieved 7 national championships and 11 SEC championships – accomplishments that may never be equaled. I have always admired his focus and his dedication to the game of football, to his players, and to the state of Alabama. College football fans everywhere will miss Nick Saban on the sidelines every Saturday. I wish him well on his future endeavors and congratulate him on a well earned retirement.”
U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, – “This is the end of an era! Thank you, Coach Saban, for years of unforgettable [University of Alabama] Football. We will miss you!”
U.S. Rep. Dale Strong – “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!”
