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Alabama AD Mal Moore steps down, cites health as reason

Citing health reasons, Alabama athletic director Mal Moore stepped down Wednesday to become special assistant to Alabama president Judy Bonner, the school announced.

The move is effective immediately. Moore, 73, had been the school’s athletic director since 1999.

In that time, Alabama’s football program has become dominant in the sport, winning three of the last four national championships. Other sports have thrived under Moore’s tenure as well. The women’s golf, softball and gymnastics teams each won national championships in 2012. The school also raised more than $220 million for the construction or maintenance of athletic facilities in that time.

Moore was hospitalized last week because he had been experiencing pulmonary problems.

“Mal Moore is Crimson Tide sports,” said Bonner. “During his tenure as athletics director, our student athletes have experienced unprecedented success in every aspect of their careers at UA, on the field of play and in the classroom. His contributions to UA athletics on every level are unsurpassed. And, while he will no longer be in charge of day-to-day operations, I am so pleased that we will continue to be able to rely on his wisdom and expertise going forward.”

“As many of you may know, due to factors related to my health, I am at a point that I can no longer fulfill my duties as athletics director in the true championship manner the position requires,” said Moore. “While I have to focus on my health issue, I look forward to maintaining an ongoing working relationship with this great University as special assistant to Dr. Bonner. I know I can count on each of you to continue your unequaled support for me and The University of Alabama.”

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