Nick Saban honors Cecil Hurt after passing

Alabama head coach Nick Saban honored longtime Alabama sports writer Cecil Hurt in a statement after he passed away Tuesday. Hurt was 62 years old.

Hurt covered Alabama athletics for the Tuscaloosa News since 1982 and passed away Tuesday at UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama from complications from pneumonia. Hurt served as the local newspaper’s sports editor and columnist and was a regular guest on local, regional and national sports programs.

“Cecil Hurt was a good friend and one of the best sports writers I have ever had the privilege of working with, not just at Alabama, but at all of our coaching stops,” Saban said. “he was a man of integrity and a fair-minded journalist blessed with wit, wisdom and an ability to paint a picture with his words that few have possessed. Cecil was loved throughout his community and state as an old-school journalist who covered the Alabama beat with class and professionalism. He was a role model for young writers and the most trusted source of news for Alabama fans everywhere. He leaves a wonderful legacy as one of sports journalism’s best. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as well as Alabama fans everywhere who loved Cecil as much as we did.”

Hurt graduated from the University of Alabama in 1981 with a degree in English and a minor in psychology. He was born in the Tuscaloosa area, where he established himself as the premier authority on Alabama football and basketball.

Cecil Hurt played a major role in the Tuscaloosa News’ 2011 Pulitzer Prize win, providing unique coverage of the tornado which ravaged the city and claimed the lives of several residents. In addition, Hurt received the 2019 Mel Allen Media Award from the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and was a two-time National Sports Media Association’s Alabama Sportswriter of the Year.

Statement from Cecil Hurt’s family

 Hurt’s Twitter page confirmed the news Tuesday afternoon, releasing the following statement.

“Dear friends, Cecil Hurt passed away this afternoon at UAB Medical Center in Birmingham. Has was being treated for pneumonia complicated by underlying issues. Cecil passed away peacefully while surrounded by family and a close friend.

“Please keep Cecil’s family in your prayers as they cope with his passing.

“His family sincerely appreciates the outpouring of love and support shown to Cecil throughout the process. They also would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at UAB ICU for the exemplary care and compassion they provided to Cecil and his family.

“Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.

“Rest In Peace Cecil.”