Jimmy Lane

Class of 1992

Jimmy Lane: The Visionary Who Brought Pro Sports to Huntsville

Jimmy Lane’s life is a testament to ambition, community spirit, and a love for sports. Inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 1992, Lane’s impact on Huntsville’s sports and civic landscape remains unforgettable.

Born in Jackson, Alabama, in 1918 and raised in Evergreen after his father’s death in World War I, Lane excelled as a student-athlete. At Evergreen High School, he earned varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball, making the all-state football team in 1936-37. His athletic talents led him to sign a baseball contract with the Washington Senators in 1937, beginning a five-year minor league career that included standout seasons with the San Francisco Seals and the Alabama-Florida League, where he hit .356.

After serving in World War II, Lane turned his attention to civic and entrepreneurial endeavors. In 1967, he made Huntsville sports history by founding the Alabama Hawks, the city’s first professional football franchise. Competing in the Continental Football League, Lane’s Hawks quickly gained prominence, winning a championship in their inaugural year.

Although the Hawks folded after just three seasons, Lane viewed the endeavor with pride. “I don’t regret anything about it except that we had to fold,” he said. His vision of turning Huntsville into a football hub demonstrated his innovative thinking and commitment to the community.

Lane’s influence extended far beyond sports. He played an integral role in Huntsville’s civic life, serving as a leader in numerous organizations, including the Huntsville Boys Club and the American Legion, where he became the youngest-ever Alabama Department commander at age 26. A philanthropist at heart, he donated 70 acres of land in 1967 for a Madison County nature trail, showcasing his dedication to enriching the lives of others.

As a businessman, Lane left a significant mark on Huntsville’s development. He excelled as a real estate broker, developer, and hotel investor, and his leadership extended to serving on the athletic committee of Birmingham’s Samford University in the 1960s.

Lane’s legacy is one of action, vision, and generosity. His efforts brought professional sports to Huntsville, cultivated a stronger sense of community, and inspired countless others to dream big. Lane’s contributions, from the gridiron to civic endeavors, solidify his place as a Huntsville icon.

This content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, based on original stories written the year of the honoree's induction by Board members and other contributors. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that the information provided may not be entirely error-free or up-to-date. Please contact the Hall of Fame with corrections.