AL SJR9

Senate Joint Resolution mourning the death of Robert Andrew "Drew" Ferguson, who died on October 1, 2024, at age 73.

Ferguson earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Exercise Physiology from the University of Georgia in 1974 and a Master of Education in Sports Medicine and Exercise Physiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1975.

Founded the Sports Medicine Institute of Alabama in 1975 with Dr. Kurt Niemann (now Children's of Alabama Sports Medicine) and served as director for over 30 years; also served as head athletic trainer for UAB Blazers basketball and USA Basketball.

Instrumental in passage of the 1993 Athletic Trainers Licensure Act, 2011 Sports Concussion Act, and 2018 Coach Safely Act; initiated efforts to install automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in Birmingham and Jefferson County Schools.

Resolution directs the Senate to adjourn as a gesture of respect and orders an enrolled copy be presented to Ferguson's family; survived by his wife of 46 years, Diane, and other family members.