Per multiple reports, a former Alabama football legend and Clemson Tigers head coach died at the age of 90. The death came weeks after a fall in March.
Former Alabama football legend Cecil “Hootie” Ingram died
Ncaa Football Sugar Bowl Coaches Press Conference
According to the Associated Press, Cecil “Hootie” Ingram died at a hospital in Birmingham. Ingram played for Alabama from 1952-54 as a defensive back, quarterback, and halfback. He earned first-team All-SEC honors for the 1952 season when he recorded ten interceptions. He signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1955 but never played in an NFL regular season game.
Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne posted a message on X following the news Ingram died:
“We will miss Hootie dearly. He was such a wonderful man and always greeted you with a big smile. Hootie left a lasting impact on The University of Alabama as both a student-athlete and administrator. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.”
We will miss Hootie dearly. He was such a wonderful man and always greeted you with a big smile. Hootie left a lasting impact on The University of Alabama as both a student-athlete and administrator. Our condolences go out to his family and friends. 🙏 https://t.co/XMVMxAo0ix
— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) May 6, 2024
Ingram played a major role in Clemson Tigers’ tradition
Ingram was hired as the head coach of the Clemson program before the 1970 season. He would record a 12-21 record in three seasons before he resigned from the position.
Per Clemson’s website, Ingram instituted two major traditions for the football program:
“Ingram’s tenure coincides with two iconic Clemson traditions. Prior to his first season in 1970, he called a meeting with Clemson administrators with the intent of refreshing Clemson’s image. That July, Clemson officially unveiled its now-omnipresent Tiger Paw logo that debuted on the Tigers’ helmets that fall.
For the final game of his tenure, Ingram also reinstated Clemson’s Running Down the Hill tradition that had stood dormant for several years following the construction of locker rooms in Clemson’s west end zone. Clemson won that game, a 7-6 victory against South Carolina, in a cold rain when Jimmy Williamson batted down a two-point conversion attempt in the fourth quarter.”
Following his coaching career, Ingram became the Athletic Director for Florida State from 1981-89.
Football fans remember Ingram
Many fans wished Ingram’s family the best and remembered the football icon.
He was a great man!
— Gary L. Harris (@garyharris_wvua) May 7, 2024
I remember him well. Great man.
— Brent Thomas (@brentthomas11) May 6, 2024
I have learned of the passing of a dear friend, Hootie Ingram, former AD at UA. As his pastor years ago, I knew him as a true Christian gentleman and fountain of wisdom. I enjoyed learning leadership principles from him. I join in mourning his passing and celebrating his life.
— Rick Lance (@ricklance) May 6, 2024
Started the Paw and reinstated running down The Hill. Strong legacy!
— Dianne McKenzie (@Tigrrrfan) May 6, 2024
Much love and respect. He was my original Athletic Director at Bama. I hope he rests in peace and blessings to his family. Thank you, sir.
— Uncanny Bama (@UncannyBama) May 7, 2024
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