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Former Bama coach speaks at UM event Gene Stallings says his biggest loss didn't take place on the field By RENEÉ BUSBY
Photo by Mike Kittrell, Mobile Register Former University of Alabama football coach Gene Stallings speaks Thursday at the Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center, during the University of Mobile's inaugural leadership luncheon. Former University of Alabama football coach Gene Stallings talked about his biggest loss Thursday. It didn't happen on a football field. "My heart's a little heavy," said Stallings, his voice trailing off as he spoke at the University of Mobile's inaugural leadership luncheon at the Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center. Stallings told the crowd of more than 270 that the saddest day of his life came in August, when his son, John Mark Stallings, who had Down syndrome, died at 46. "I don't think I'll ever complain again," Stallings said. The coach said he's been surprised at the impact his son had on others. Since August, schools have named sports complexes after John Mark, and Abilene Christian University in Texas tapped his son as one of the most influential people in America. Next week, a street in Tuscaloosa will be named in John Mark's honor. Amid "tough times" when teen suicide and drug use are prevalent, Stallings encouraged parents to stay involved in their children's' lives. "I have never known a successful person who had a bad relationship with his children," said Stallings, who lives in Paris, Texas. He stressed the importance of keeping children in school and furthering their education. "There is no substitute for knowledge," said Stallings, who both played and coached under Paul "Bear" Bryant. The coach, who won national coach of the year honors in leading Alabama to a national championship in 1992, also told the crowd that leadership is based on integrity and being able to make decisions. "Indecision will kill you," said Stallings, whose National Football League résumé includes head coach of the St. Louis Cardinals and assistant to coach Tom Landry with the Dallas Cowboys. Officials at the 1,562-student University of Mobile have said the luncheon series is not a fundraiser, but a chance to increase the university's visibility in the community.
Last modified :
Monday, March 23, 2009 11:49 PM
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