Jets senior picked for 2024 Service Above Self Award
MADISON – Tim Coleman is regarded as one of the top high school football players in Alabama and has been ranked the No. 1 long snapper in the state and among the top 25 in the U.S. There are several organizations and those assisting those endeavors who know Coleman to be more than an athlete who plays a high caliber style of football. They know first-hand he is a giving teenager who thinks more of others than himself.
With several letters of recommendation, including those of Congressman Dale Strong and NFL Hall Of Fame player Walter Jones, Coleman was nominated for and received the recognition of the Bubba Trotman Service Above Self Award in a ceremony held in Montgomery. Presented by the Montgomery Rotary Club, the award is presented to a member of the Alabama All-Star Team in the annual Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic who has shown outstanding commitment to his community through service.
“The award is special for me as it shows my character as I want to be seen other than just a high school football player,” said Coleman, who just completed his last year of high school football and is amongst the recruiting war for his notable talent as a long snapper. The 5-foot-11, 225-pound offensive lineman is being recruited by numerous schools and was seen by many in the just completed Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Game held in Mobile in which Coleman handled all long snapper duties in Alabama’s 35-29 victory over their Mississippi counterparts.
Coleman won the 10th annual award which is given to an all-star player for excellence on the field and his community service. Coleman has volunteered to help many groups in his hometown area including Special Olympics, Manna House Ministry, Best Buddies, NICU- premature babies and Walk for Warriors.
“At the Manna House, I bring clothing there and hand out food,” said Coleman. “Me and some of my football teammates give out Christmas gifts to the needy as I’ve even bought a couple bicycles to give out. I also have helped at elementary schools in the Junior Leaders Program.”
Coleman has assisted Special Olympics for four years as his assistance has occurred in running stations among the football skills competition. His work stemmed from being selected by coaches at James Clemens.
For the 18-year old, his special love for Special Olympics comes from the fact he has stepsister, 24year old Addie Kate, with special needs. She suffered a stroke and needs special care. Coleman also assists with the premature baby program in honor of his stepsister, Madison Wood, 21, who was a premature baby.
Coleman is the second athlete from James Clemens to receive the special award from the Montgomery Rotary Club as Zach Taylor was selected for the award several years ago.