Alabama AD Moore stepping down

Tuscaloosa, AL – Alabama athletics director Mal Moore announced Wednesday he will resign effective immediately due to recent health concerns.

Moore, who has served as the Crimson Tide's AD since 1999, was hospitalized for over a week earlier this month with heart-related issues. The 73-year-old will move into a special assistant's role to university president Judy Bonner.

"As many of you may know, due to factors related to my health, I am at a point that I can no longer fulfill my duties as athletics director in the true championship manner the position requires," said Moore. "While I have to focus on my health issue, I look forward to maintaining an ongoing working relationship with this great university as special assistant to Dr. Bonner. I know I can count on each of you to continue your unequaled support for me and the University of Alabama."

Moore has been associated with the Alabama football program for more than 53 years, having played under the legendary Bear Bryant from 1958-62 and later serving as an assistant to Bryant from 1964-82.

The Crimson Tide captured their 10th national championship with Moore either a player, coach or administrator with their victory over Notre Dame in January's BCS Championship Game.

"Mal Moore is Crimson Tide sports," said Bonner. "During his tenure as athletics director, our student athletes have experienced unprecedented success in every aspect of their careers at UA, on the field of play and in the classroom. His contributions to UA athletics on every level are unsurpassed. And, while he will no longer be in charge of day-to-day operations, I am so pleased that we will continue to be able to rely on his wisdom and expertise going forward."

Moore also received the John L. Toner Award, honoring the nation's best athletic director, from the National Football Foundation for the 2011-12 academic year.

Alabama said in a statement Wednesday that a search for Moore's successor will commence immediately.