Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Ted Cruz met with former University of Alabama Head Football Coach Nick Saban, University of Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne, and Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Commissioner Charles McClelland in Washington, D.C., on September 12, 2024.

The meeting addressed current challenges impacting the future of collegiate athletics, particularly the inconsistent regulations governing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Senator Britt emphasized the importance of preserving collegiate sports for future generations. "We must take action to protect the integrity and sustainability of collegiate athletics so generations to come can continue to enjoy their favorite college sports and student-athletes can live their American Dreams," said Senator Britt.

The SWAC consists of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and is headquartered in Birmingham, which also hosts the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Among its members are Alabama State University and Alabama A&M.

This meeting followed an event in Tuscaloosa where Coach Nick Saban was honored with the newly named Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Senator Britt had advocated for naming the field after Saban following his retirement announcement.

Photos from the meeting can be viewed below.

###