Bill Battle, a national champion as an Alabama football player and later the university’s athletics director following a successful business career, has passed away at the age of 82, UA announced on Thursday.
A native of Birmingham, Battle played under the legendary Paul “Bear” Bryant from 1960 to 1962, starting for three seasons. He was part of Alabama’s 1961 national championship team and earned a place on the UA All-Decade Team for the 1960s as a first-team tight end and second-team defensive end.
“Coach Battle was a top recruit in the South when he joined Alabama during a rebuilding period,” Paul Bryant Jr. said. “He was a three-year starter, winning a national championship, and later revolutionized collegiate athletics with the licensing industry, which continues to benefit universities nationwide. He also returned to serve as athletics director when we needed him most.”
In 2013, Battle stepped in as UA’s athletics director, a role he held for four years. During his tenure, Alabama won three national titles, 10 SEC championships across various sports, and saw 15 individual national champions. Former Alabama football coach Nick Saban praised Battle’s character and leadership, highlighting his impact on the university’s success and expressing condolences to his family.
Battle earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Alabama in 1963 and a master’s from Oklahoma in 1964. He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant under Bud Wilkinson at Oklahoma, followed by stints at Army and Tennessee, where he became head coach in 1970 at just 29 years old, one of the youngest in SEC history. Over seven seasons, he led the Vols to a 59-22-2 record and four bowl victories.
Reflecting on his relationship with Bryant, Battle described how it evolved from player to business associate, noting Bryant’s generosity and mentorship. “He spent so much time helping others, often without them even knowing,” Battle said, calling it the mark of a great man.
In 1981, Battle founded the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC), which became a powerhouse in collegiate sports licensing, securing deals with over 200 programs. He later succeeded Mal Moore as UA’s athletics director, serving until 2017.
Greg Byrne, UA’s current athletics director, praised Battle’s contributions, calling him a visionary who left a lasting impact on Alabama athletics. Battle’s numerous accolades include induction into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and the Alabama Business Hall of Fame. UA also honored him by naming the Bill Battle Athletic Performance Center in his honor.
“Bill Battle’s legacy at The University of Alabama is both profound and lasting,” UA president Stuart R. Bell said. “His leadership and generosity enriched our institution, and his influence will continue to inspire future generations.”
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