Bryant-Denny Stadium Press Box Honors Cecil Hurt

Alabama Athletics announced its newest tribute to the late Cecil Hurt on Friday afternoon, a plaque in the Bryant-Denny Stadium press box to honor the legacy of a local legend.

"One of the preeminent sports writers of his time, Cecil Hurt is a name that will be forever intertwined with The University of Alabama and its athletics department. However, Cecil was more," reads the plaque. "He was a friend and mentor to many journalists who sought his wisdom and counsel. He was also a trusted confidant to coaches and administrators. Cecil possessed the rare ability of building and growing professional relationships, while still holding those he covered accountable- a trait that helped him become one of the most respected scribes in the nation."

The University of Alabama alumnus started at the Tuscaloosa News as a sports writer in 1982 and worked there until his passing on November 23, 2021, at the age of 62 from pneumonia complications.

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Some of his career accolades mentioned include being inducted into the Alabama Sports Writers Hall of Fame this year, winning the Mel Allen Award from the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2019, and being a part of the Tuscaloosa News staff that won a Pulitzer Prize in 2012 for its coverage of the April 27, 2011, tornado outbreak.

"His voice and opinion mattered to many. Most importantly, his friendship and his wisdom mattered to all- not only to those who knew him personally, but those who religiously read his work and considered him a friend. Cecil built a lasting legacy, and he will be forever missed," reads the plaque.

A seat was left open with a credential pass as a tribute to Hurt at Jordan-Hare Stadium for the 2021 Iron Bowl and in Atlanta, Ga., for the 2021 SEC Championship.

The Alabama men's basketball team also left a seat open at the media table in Coleman Coliseum for the second-half of the 2021-22 season.

Bryant-Denny Stadium adds to the long list of tributes for a pivotal figure in the Tuscaloosa community who will never be forgotten.