The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Gene Bartow Sculpture Unveiled
March 2, 2001
By Gary Mans, UAB Media Relations
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Beginning Friday evening (Mar. 2), Gene Bartow will forever cast a watchful eye over the building that bears his name.
At a reception honoring UAB's founding father of athletics, UAB President W. Ann Reynolds unveiled a sculpture of Athletic Director Emeritus Bartow that will be displayed on the concourse at the main entrance to Bartow Arena. The cast bronze sculpture was created by Cordray Parker and was paid for through private gifts.
"This tribute is a small expression of the tremendous appreciation that all of us who have been, or will be, associated with UAB feel for Coach Bartow," Reynolds said. "He is a perfect example of what has made this university great - individuals with a big dream who then act to ensure that dream becomes a reality. Throughout his years at UAB, Coach Bartow has been able to impart that philosophy to thousands of young people. It truly is a legacy that makes us all proud."
Bartow reacted to the honor in his typical unassuming manner. "I was brought here to accomplish a task - bring quality, competitive athletics to Birmingham. I believe that through the hard work of a great number of people, we were able to reach our goal," Bartow said. "UAB has been wonderful to me and my family and I always will consider this my home."
In 1977, Bartow left one of the most prestigious jobs in college athletics - head basketball coach at UCLA - to build what would has become a thriving enterprise that includes 17 sports (six men's, 11 women's) and more than 400 student-athletes. Throughout his tenure, Bartow recognized the value of major conference affiliation and guided Blazer athletics through three conferences to its current status as a member of Conference USA.
He will forever be remembered for his development of UAB men's basketball into a high-profile, successful program. During almost two decades as head coach, Bartow's teams won 365 game, made nine NCAA Tournament appearances, including trips to the Sweet 16 in 1981 and the Elite 8 in 1982, and five trips to the NIT. However, one of his more visible contributions to UAB athletics may be his role in the development of UAB football from a club sport status in just 10 years.
