Venerable Football Referee at University of Alabama, aged 97, continues to aid the Tide in their victories
In a remarkable career spanning over six decades, Eddie Conyers, a 97-year-old football legend, has transitioned from his on-field role as a referee to an off-field position. Known for his jovial spirit and unwavering dedication, Conyers will now oversee the scheduling for practice officials and mentor them, ensuring the tradition of excellence continues.
Conyers' journey with the University of Alabama's football team began in 1962, when Coach Paul 'Bear' Bryant recruited him to become a practice referee. Since then, he has been an integral part of the Crimson Tide's practices, helping to pioneer the role of Bama practice ref.
Throughout his career, Conyers has worked under two iconic coaches - Bear Bryant and Nick Saban. During this tenure, he was present during Coach Bryant's plan to transition the Crimson Tide to a wishbone offense in the early 1970s, and witnessed the evolution of the team under Saban's meticulous coaching style.
Coach Bryant's coaching style emphasized giving more than 100% in every play, a philosophy that Conyers embodied throughout his career. Meanwhile, Saban focused on doing everything right, including the little details, a principle that Conyers carried forward in his role as a practice referee.
Conyers' impact extends beyond the field. He has thrown flags at notable players including Joe Namath, Kenny 'Snake' Stabler, Jalen Hurts, and Derrick Henry, but his influence reaches far beyond these moments. Jeff Allen, senior associate athletic director for sports medicine, values Conyers as a link to the history and tradition of Alabama football.
Eddie Conyers and his wife Peggy have become a familiar sight at every away game, waving off the team with a big 'Roll Tide' sendoff before each game. Off the field, Conyers and Allen travel together to speak to civic groups and athletic booster clubs, sharing their experiences and insights about the storied history of Alabama football.
The school's slogan for its football team is 'Where Legends Are Made', and Conyers' contributions certainly fit that bill. He has been involved with 12 of Alabama's 18 college football national championships, a testament to his enduring impact on the team.
As Conyers steps away from his on-field duties, the person who will no longer supervise him as a practice referee on the field at Alabama Crimson Tide's home games starting this year has not been publicly disclosed. However, Conyers' legacy will continue to live on, as he leaves behind a rich history of football, mentorship, and tradition at the University of Alabama.
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