Former Crimson Tide player Tyrone Prothro

February 20, 2010 - 02:00 PM

Former University of Alabama football Tyrone Prothro will be at Page & Palette to sign copies of

"Catch & Hold, Five Keys to Strength, Success, and Secure Happiness".

Tyrone Prothro grew up in poverty in rural Alabama. When he was ten, his family's home burned. Sports became central to Tyrone's life.

Tyrone was a small football player, but in the 2005 college football season, he was a big man for the Alabama Crimson Tide, playing wide receiver, deep back on punt return, and receiver on specialty teams. He was deeply loved by fans, one of the most beloved players in college sports history.

In its fifth game, the Crimson Tide was undefeated, and Tyrone made a catch so impossible, so phenomenal, that ESPN ranked it higher than any catch in the history of college football, and awarded Tyrone the coveted ESPY play of the year award-- over every player in every sport at every level. (See Youtube Video: Amazing Catch By Alabama's Tyrone Prothro)

Two weeks after making The Catch, Tyrone completely severed both major bones in his left leg between the ankle and kneecap in one of the most gruesome accidents in televized sports history. (See Youtube Video: Alabama Receiver Snaps Leg)

As Tyrone was wheeled off the field on a stretcher, he raised both arms in the air and cheered on his team. Millions of fans literally cried in the stands, in sports bars, and in their homes. (See Youtube Video: Tyrone Prothro bittersweet symphony)

After his first surgery, Tyrone's leg became infected. Repeated surgeries were required, and Tyrone struggled to be able to use his left leg again. The condition of his leg prevented him from returning to the game as a player. Tyrone lacked clear direction, but he stayed in school, finished his bachelor's degree.

Tyrone plans to pursue a career in coaching. He remains positive and encourages others through personal appearances and his book, Catch & Hold.

 

YouTube video of "The Catch"