Alabama Football Hosts Asher Daws for Special Visit
The six-year-old student toured facilities and joined the team for pregame activities in Tuscaloosa.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football
Asher Daws, a six-year-old student from Hartselle battling hypoplastic left heart syndrome, experienced a day with the Alabama football team. The visit, facilitated by Make-A-Wish Alabama, included a tour of team facilities and participation in the pregame coin toss.
Why it matters
The event highlights the team's ongoing community engagement efforts to support children facing life-threatening medical conditions. It provided a memorable experience for Daws, who has already undergone three open-heart surgeries.
Asher Daws is six years old and has undergone three open-heart surgeries, the first of which occurred when he was just nine days old. He currently manages hypoplastic left heart syndrome as he prepares for potential future cardiac procedures.
The players
Asher Daws
A six-year-old student at Crestline Elementary School who lives with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
Make-A-Wish Alabama
The local chapter of the nonprofit organization dedicated to granting wishes for children with critical illnesses.
Kalen DeBoer
The current head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
Keelon Russell
A member of the Alabama football team who interacted with Daws during the facility visit.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
A former professional football player who serves as a director of player development for the Crimson Tide.
The details
During his visit to Tuscaloosa, Daws met head coach Kalen DeBoer and received a signed football and gloves from the players. Quarterback Keelon Russell also participated in the day by throwing a pass to Daws at the Alabama football facilities.
Timeline
The tour of Alabama football facilities occurred on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
Asher Daws participated in the pregame coin toss on October 24, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This visit reflects the broader trend of college football programs deepening their community outreach through established partnerships with charitable organizations. Such efforts align with the program's commitment to mentorship and player development roles like those managed by Ha Ha Clinton-Dix.
While the focus remains on the charitable visit, the event took place during the lead-up to the Alabama versus Texas A&M football game at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Fans attending the game were present as Daws participated in the pregame coin toss.
The takeaway
Programs like this demonstrate the significant impact that collegiate sports can have on the lives of children in the local community. Supporting such initiatives provides meaningful opportunities for families managing complex medical journeys.
Further reading
Read more about the team and program updates on our Football page.
