Ongoing health problems for Alabama athletic director Mal Moore have resulted in his decision to step down from his position, effective immediately.
Moore made the announcement on Wednesday, where he added that he will serve as a special assistant to President Judy Bonner.
“As many of you may know, due to factors related to my health, I am at a point that I can no longer fulfill my duties as athletics director in the true championship manner the position requires,” said Moore in a statement. “While I have to focus on my health issue, I look forward to maintaining an ongoing working relationship with this great University as special assistant to Dr. Bonner. I know I can count on each of you to continue your unequaled support for me and The University of Alabama.
“I cannot adequately express what the University means to me. It has been a part of my life for more than 50 years, and I feel honored to have served the Crimson Tide as a player, coach and administrator. I am so appreciative of the University administration, coaches, staff, student-athletes and fans who have made my tenure as director so very meaningful, memorable and special.”
Moore, 73, is currently at Duke University Medical Center for pulmonary issues. The AD for UA since 1999, Moore played for the Tide under Bear Bryant and later served as an assistant coach. In all, he’s been part of 10 national championship football teams in various capacities -- the last three have come under undoubtedly his best hire, Nick Saban.
There’s no denying how deep his ties to the program run.
“Mal Moore is Crimson Tide sports,” said Bonner. “During his tenure as athletics director, our student athletes have experienced unprecedented success in every aspect of their careers at UA, on the field of play and in the classroom. His contributions to UA athletics on every level are unsurpassed. And, while he will no longer be in charge of day-to-day operations, I am so pleased that we will continue to be able to rely on his wisdom and expertise going forward.”
A search for Moore’s replacement is currently underway.
Our best wishes to Moore going forward.