Tuscaloosa, Alabama – Nick Saban, the legendary coach who guided the University of Alabama football program to unparalleled success, has announced his retirement from coaching. This news was first reported by The Tuscaloosa News. Saban, 72, confirmed his retirement in a statement, expressing his gratitude for the 17 years he and his wife, Terry, spent at the university and within the Tuscaloosa community.
Reflecting on his career, Saban emphasized that his focus was not solely on victories, but on leaving a lasting legacy and guiding players to success both on and off the field. With an overall career record of 297-71-1, Saban’s coaching tenure included successful stints at Toledo, Michigan State, LSU, and, most prominently, at the University of Alabama.
During his time with the Crimson Tide, Saban crafted a football dynasty. Under his leadership, Alabama achieved a stellar record of 206-29 (.877) and claimed six national championships in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2019. His teams were so dominant that Saban became synonymous with college football, even making appearances in commercials and movies.
In light of Saban’s retirement, his wife, Terry, reassured fans that Alabama would always hold a special place in their family’s life. She expressed gratitude for the incredible memories created during their time at the university, while promising unwavering support by cheering on the Crimson Tide.
Although the final game of Saban’s career resulted in a loss, it should not overshadow his remarkable coaching achievements. The Alabama athletics director, Greg Byrne, lauded Saban as one of the greatest coaches of all time, in any sport. As of now, no successor to Saban has been announced.
Saban’s impact extended beyond the football field, as his contributions were recognized with numerous personal accolades. In 2013, he was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, and he was twice named Associated Press National Coach of the Year, first in 2003 during his tenure at LSU and again in 2008 at Alabama.
The end of Saban’s coaching era was met with mixed emotions across the state of Alabama. Auburn University, a rival of Alabama, acknowledged the significance of Saban’s career, stating, “End of an era.” The Auburn head coach, Hugh Freeze, conveyed his admiration for Saban, expressing gratitude for the standard he set within the profession.
Nick Saban, a native of Fairmont, West Virginia, played collegiate football at Kent State University in Ohio. He began his head coaching career at the University of Toledo before leading Michigan State and LSU. After a stint with the Miami Dolphins in the NFL, Saban arrived at Alabama in 2007 to cement his status as a coaching legend.
Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama praised Saban’s contributions to college football, emphasizing his lasting impact on Alabama’s culture.
In conclusion, Nick Saban’s retirement marks the end of a storied career that forever shaped the landscape of college football. With six national championships and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Saban’s legacy will be remembered for generations to come.