Alabama AD Mal Moore stepping down - WLOX.com - The News for South Mississippi

One of the biggest names in University of Alabama athletics is stepping aside.

Athletic Director Mal Moore is stepping down effective immediately, the school announced today.

Moore will become a special assistant to University President Judy Bonner.

"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.

"I cannot adequately express what the University means to me.  It has been a part of my life for more than 50 years, and I feel honored to have served the Crimson Tide as a player, coach and administrator. I am so appreciative of the University administration, coaches, staff, student-athletes and fans who have made my tenure as director so very meaningful, memorable and special."

Moore has been Alabama's Athletic Director since 1999.

He played football under legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, before joining his staff as an assistant coach.

Moore's successor as athletics director will be named as quickly as possible.