UA Athletics Announces Plans to Honor Luke Ratliff

The University of Alabama revealed their plans to honor late ‘Bama superfan Luke Ratliff, Thursday. Included in the announcement is the creation of the “Luke ‘Fluffopotamus’ Ratliff Memorial Gift Fund,” a fund that UA Athletics describes as a fund to ”assist the future presidents of Crimson Chaos, specifically the leader of the men's basketball student section, with travel expenses to road events as well as merchandise for students and promotional giveaways.”

In addition to the creation of the gift fund, the university noted that they will begin to present each new president of ”Crimson Chaos,” the official student section fan group, with a plaid jacket, similar to what Ratliff wore, during a preseason basketball game.

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As for UA’s contribution to Coleman Coliseum, the athletics program will affix a plaque to the seat where Ratliff usually sat, near the front of the student section.

This contribution by Alabama comes several weeks after Ratliff tragically passed away, due to complications from COVID-19.

Reagan Starner, owner of R&R Cigars and close friend of Ratliff, praised the university for their gesture.

"Nobody has had a bigger impact on the fan side of the program than he has. I'm really happy about it, and I think it is a great way to honor him," Starner said. "His impact to that program can't be understated."

If you wish to donate to the “Luke ‘Fluffopotamus’ Ratliff Memorial Gift Fund,” you can visit uactf.org/fluff.