Bill Battle, Key Figure in College Sports, Dies at 82

Bill Battle, a key figure in college athletics known for his contributions as a player, coach, and athletics director, has died at the age of 82. A Birmingham native, Battle played for Alabama under legendary coach Paul 'Bear' Bryant, contributing to the team's national championship in 1961. He became the youngest head coach in the Southeastern Conference at Tennessee, leading the Volunteers to a 59-22-2 record. In 1981, he founded the Collegiate Licensing Company, revolutionizing the business side of college athletics. Battle returned to Alabama as athletics director from 2013 to 2017, overseeing multiple national championships. His enduring legacy is remembered by colleagues and friends as a visionary who greatly impacted college sports.