Grady Liles, longtime president of the UNA Sportsman’s Club, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 26, at the age of 81.

Liles was a long-time Lions fan and supporter and was well-known in the UNA sports community.

Liles served as president of the UNA Sportsman’s Club for more than 20 years and helped to build a strong support organization for the athletic department.

For his support, Liles was inducted into the UNA Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998.

Liles was instrumental in bringing the NCAA Division II Football National Championship Game to Braly Stadium in 1985 and served as chariman of the Shoals National Championship Committee for 25 years.

Liles was also the creator of the Harlon Hill Trophy (D-II football player of the year award), named for a former Lion. The award has been presented for the last 27 years as a part of the national championship.

In 1987, Liles was selected as the Shoals Citizen of the Year and was involved in numerous civic activities and organizations in the area.

Liles also holds membership in the Lauderdale County Sports Hall of Fame.

For a full-length story about Liles, pick up the March 14 issue of The Flor-Ala.