Some days you just never know when a special moment will present itself. As UAB players took part in an offseason workout today in Legion Field, one of those special moments developed as players rushed to the aide of strength and conditioning coach Zac Woodfin to carry a special member of the program to the top.
Tim Alexander has been a special part of the UAB football program since 2006. One time a talented tight end prospect, Alexander was paralyzed in his lower body by a car accident in 2006, forcing him to move around in a wheelchair. His spirit and positive attitude continues to inspire the UAB football program, as explained in this feature story by Dennis Dodd of CBSSports.com last fall. Knowing he would never get the authentic football experience in college, Alexander committed himself to going through the motions as best he could with the UAB program. His dedication to the program has resulted in his own jersey and locker with the players. He is as much a part of the team as the first string wide receiver and incoming freshman.
Alexander attended the football workout in Legion Field, as he typically does even in the offseason. As his teammates jogged up the steps in Legion Field, Alexander was not to be left behind. Woodfin, a former UAB player, took it upon himself to begin carrying Alexander up the steps of Legion Field.
@footballscoop #UAB Fb S&C CoachWoodfin carrying paralyzed player Tim Alexander to top of stadium to be with his team pic.twitter.com/XhorV2jXMe
— Tyler Cook (@Tyler_Cook04) February 14, 2014
Seeing their strength and conditioning coach help Alexander up the stairs, UAB players quickly came to help out.
What a moment. Helping my strength coach and teammates carry Tim up the stairs @ Legion Field #UABFootball #Family pic.twitter.com/zowsaL2wHz
— Jake Ganus (@jakeganus_4) February 14, 2014
The parents and fans of these players should feel proud seeing these images. The university should be applauded for having such character. UAB may not win many football games, but when it counts the most they prove they really are winners.
Helmet sticker to AL.com.
Helmet sticker to each and every one of those players. Awesome. I just became a Blazers fan.
Nice story.
Some people have their head on straight. Wow!
Well done UAB Players!
Props to the UAB football program. 👍👍👍👍
Great story. Thank you for sharing!