Athletics News

Student athlete, Lucas Hammond poses with graduation cap and tennis racket on the the UWA Tennis Courts
Lucas Hammond can’t remember when tennis wasn’t part of his life. As a toddler, he would often sit in a basket on the court at the tennis club and hand his dad tennis balls. When he was old enough to hold a racket, he started playing. Now the exercise science major from Las Vegas, Nevada, has his sights set on playing the sport professionally after graduating from the University of West Alabama in May.
When completed, a construction project underway at the University of West Alabama will instantly transform the day-to-day operations for several of the Tigers’ athletics programs.
UWA cross-country runner Audrick Pyronneau

Speed comes naturally to Audrick Pyronneau, a former distance runner on the University of West Alabama’s track-and-field team. That he’s using that trait to pursue his academic goals shouldn’t be a surprise.

Kristen and Nick Woodruff

Young, recently married and rich only in aspirations, the Woodruffs once lived in Monticello, a college town about 40 miles west of the Mississippi River. Nick, a graduate assistant at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, had been promoted to assistant coach of the Boll Weevils’ men’s basketball team. Kristen had a job -- in Ohio -- but resigned to join her husband’s career dream.

UWA student Carlyn Rawls, who is studying in France.

By the time she enrolled at the University of West Alabama, Carlyn Rawls was already captivated by the notion of studying abroad. Reared in Millbrook just north of the state Capitol, she soon learned options were bountiful for curious students without fear of moving to the globe’s opposite side. It’s an experience she sought.

It’s understandable that Michele Graham Bradford unpacks memories of her late brother as if he were sitting beside her, smiling as she speaks. The recollections flow easily, sincere as the summer day is long. “He meant the world to us,” she said, “but every year we find out what he meant to other people, as well. He was just a great man.”
Her Foust Hall office is adorned with jerseys and balls autographed by Tiger athletes. She refers to UWA’s coaches as “my coaches.” Her boss, Director of Athletics Kent Partridge, admits she is his department’s sole constant. “And thank the Good Lord for that,” he said.
Illia Dehodiuk and Andrii Stratiienko.

Ilia Dehodiuk never stops checking his phone. Never. “Literally every minute,” he says. He checks it each morning. While walking to class. Before practice. After practice. Before bed. Next day, same thing. He has to check. He must.

Donald Smith

The University of West Alabama has announced the appointment of Donald Smith as coach of its cheerleading team. Smith assumed the graduate assistant position in August, having spent the last five years in coaching and game day strategy roles.

Life at UWA

Your UWA education is so much more than going to class. Learn more about the countless opportunities to be a part of something great, from service organizations and Greek Life to clubs and much more.

Homecoming Week is Here!

Get ready for a full week of exciting events for students, alumni, and friends of UWA! Homecoming is packed with traditions, fun, and activities for everyone. Be part of the celebration by exploring the schedule of events. Don’t miss out—check out the details now!

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