News Summary

The town of Hartselle gathers to mourn the passing of David Norwood, a beloved football star and coach, who made a lasting impact on local sports. Known for his remarkable career as a nose tackle for the Hartselle Tigers and later as a dedicated coach, Norwood’s legacy will forever be remembered. A special celebration of his life is scheduled for March 9 at Arley First Baptist Church, allowing friends and family to honor his contributions to the community.

Hartselle Says Goodbye to Football Star David Norwood at 61

In a heartbreaking turn of events for the small town of Hartselle, community members are mourning the loss of local football legend, David Norwood, who has sadly passed away at the age of 61. Known for his notable contributions to high school sports, Norwood’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him and followed his career.

A Star on the Field

Norwood was a standout nose tackle for the Hartselle Tigers during his high school years, showcasing not just talent but also relentless dedication to the game. His hard-hitting style and teamwork helped propel the Tigers to great heights, most notably when they made it to the state championship in 1980. That season, the Tigers finished with an impressive regular-season ranking of No. 5 in their class, an achievement that exemplified the strength and skill of the roster.

In the semifinals of that memorable season, Hartselle faced off against Southside-Gadsden and emerged victorious with a solid score of 24-14. However, the state championship game proved to be a nail-biter. The Tigers battled hard against Charles Henderson of Troy but narrowly lost the match with a score of 14-7. Though it was a tough defeat, Norwood’s performance in the championship and the camaraderie he shared with his teammates left an indelible mark on the Hartselle football legacy.

A Journey from Player to Coach

After his playing days came to a close, David Norwood transitioned into coaching, sharing his passion and knowledge of the game with the next generation of athletes. He took the helm as head coach at Gardendale from 2002 to 2003 and later moved on to Austin High School, where he served as head coach from 2004 to 2009. His coaching career didn’t stop there—he also coached the football team at Meek High School from 2017 to 2019, making a significant impact wherever he went.

In addition to his head coaching roles, Norwood lent his expertise as an assistant coach at various schools, mentoring countless young players along the way. His enthusiasm for football, combined with his unwavering support for his players, made him a beloved figure in local sports.

Honoring a Legend

Arley First Baptist Church on March 9. Friends, family, and fans of all ages are invited to share their memories and commemorate the contributions he made to Hartselle football and the broader community.

Visitation for this heartfelt celebration of life will begin at 1 p.m., allowing everyone to come together and pay their respects. The service is set to start around 2 p.m., giving attendees the chance to reflect on the impact that David Norwood has made throughout his life, both on and off the field.

A Lasting Impact

While David Norwood may no longer be with us, his legacy as a football star, coach, and community member will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched. From his high school days to his coaching career, he inspired many with his knowledge, skills, and passion for the game. As Hartselle bids farewell to one of its own, it is clear that his spirit will continue to motivate young athletes and those who knew him for years to come.

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