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Carl "Doc" Williams, a revered figure in athletic training for Southern University, has been honored with the Roscoe Nance Lifetime Achievement Award by the Southwestern Athletic Conferences Alumni Association.
The award, set to be presented at the 21st annual Legends Awards and Roast on May 18 in Baton Rouge, celebrates Williams's 43 years of dedicated service, during which he served under seven athletic directors and 11 head football coaches.
Williams, a native of Houston, began his storied career at Yates High School before making a significant impact at Southern. Longtime coach Pete Richardson said:
"Doc played an outstanding role for us. Doc had the respect of not only the coaches but the players as well. He got injured players back on the field, and everybody appreciated that. He’s an outstanding individual, a true professional."
His commitment extended beyond football, ensuring equitable treatment for all teams, as highlighted by former volleyball coach Nathaniel Denu:
“Our teams ended practice about the same time, and it was Doc who vehemently insisted the volleyball team eat the same meals as the football team. The rest is history."
Back in 2014, Williams received the Louisiana Athletic Trainers Association's President's Award, acknowledging his lifelong dedication. Presented by LATA vice president Ray Castle in the SU athletic training room, the award recognized Williams's pivotal role in legislative advancements for athletic trainers in Louisiana.
"It's always an honor to get an award, wherever it comes from, because it means that those people have an admiration for what you've done and what you do."
Beyond his tenure at Southern, Williams had opportunities to join professional teams like the San Diego Chargers and worked with the Dallas Cowboys’ training staff.
His influence remains a beacon for current and future Athletic Trainers, underscoring his legacy as a cornerstone of athlete health care and professionalism.
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