Heartbreaking -Bill Battle, former Tennessee co
ach and Alabama AD who founded licensing company, dies
Bill Battle, a beloved figure in college athletics, passed away at the age of 79. Battle made significant contributions to both the University of Tennessee and the University of Alabama, as well as to the business side of collegiate sports. He is perhaps best known for his time as the head football coach at Tennessee from 1970 to 1976. During his tenure, Battle guided the Volunteers to four bowl games and built a competitive program that laid the groundwork for future success.
After leaving Tennessee, Battle transitioned to a leadership role in Alabama’s athletic department. As the athletic director at Alabama from 1982 to 1986, he oversaw a period of great success for the Crimson Tide, a program already steeped in rich history. Under his leadership, Alabama continued to thrive in football, with the university’s athletic programs flourishing across the board.
However, Bill Battle’s influence extended beyond the field and court. In 1981, he founded the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC), which became a pioneering force in the commercialization of collegiate athletics. The company played a major role in the management of college sports merchandise, helping schools generate revenue through licensing deals and ensuring the protection of their brands. The CLC’s success revolutionized the way collegiate athletics was marketed and managed.
Known for his integrity, work ethic, and leadership, Bill Battle earned respect from peers, players, and fans alike. He made lasting impacts both as a coach and administrator, leaving a legacy that continues to influence the collegiate sports landscape. His passing marks the end of an era for those who admired his work both on and off the field.
Battle’s dedication to college athletics and his pioneering work with licensing have left an indelible mark on the sports industry. His contributions to both Tennessee and Alabama athletics, as well as his entrepreneurial spirit, will not be forgotten. As friends, family, and colleagues mourn his passing, they will undoubtedly remember his tireless efforts to improve the world of college sports and his deep commitment to the student-athletes and communities he served. Bill Battle’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched throughout his distinguished career.
