Bear Bryant

Paul William 'Bear' Bryant (September 11, 1913 – January 26, 1983) was an American college football coach. Best known as the longtime head coach of the University of Alabama football team, he achieved an unparalleled legendary status in the sport, winning the national championship six times, and setting the record as the all-time (up to that time) most successful coach in NCAA Division I college football, with a record of 323-85-17.

Legacy

Bryant is buried in Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, Alabama. In February, 1983 President Ronald Reagan awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Related Topics:
Birmingham, Alabama - February - 1983 - Ronald Reagan - Presidential Medal of Freedom

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Bryant-Denny Stadium, a high school and a major street in Tuscaloosa are named for him. There is also a museum dedicated to him on Alabama's campus. A national "College Football Coach of the Year" award is named for him and he was honored with a U.S. postage stamp in 1996. After his death in 1983, the Associated Press named its college football national championship trophy after Bryant.

Related Topics:
Bryant-Denny Stadium - Tuscaloosa - Museum - 1996 - Associated Press

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Bryant is fondly remembered, even revered, in Alabama for his reputation as a wise, tough, dedicated leader with an indisputable record of successes. His trademark houndstooth hat is an instantly-recognizable icon and his deep, gravelly voice continues to reverberate in local folklore: "If you believe in yourself, have dedication and pride, and never quit, you'll be a winner. The price of victory is high but so are the rewards."

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Gary Busey portrayed Bryant in a 1984 biographical film, "The Bear". Tom Berenger played Bryant in the 2003 movie The Junction Boys depicting Bryant's first season as head coach at Texas A&M

Related Topics:
Gary Busey - Tom Berenger - 2003 movie - The Junction Boys

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Bear Bryant's son, Paul, Jr. is a 1966 graduate and current trustee of the University of Alabama.

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