Outstanding Alabama Athlete Enjoying Retirement in Paris

Who knew that Paris resident Laurien “Goobie” Stapp was on Paul “Bear” Bryant’s first football team at Alabama? Alabama native Stapp had declined Bryant’s offer to play for him at Texas A&M, preferring to play at Alabama. By Stapp’s freshman year, Bryant had moved to Alabama. Stapp played outstanding varsity ball for Bryant in 1958, '59, and '60. Weighing in at 160 pounds, he played quarterback, kicker, and offensive and defensive positions usually played by larger men. After a short time with the Baltimore Colts in 1961, Bryant called Stapp back to Alabama to coach the freshman team. One of the players he coached (apparently successfully) was future football legend Joe Namath. Today, Laurien is an avid hunter, but he also enjoys quiet pursuits including the creation of pottery at Lee Academy for the Arts. Source – Laurien Stapp; submitted by Ray Harding.