Autauga County, Alabama – Antonio "Bam" Richards, a beloved coach at Autauga Academy, was injured during a football game against Maplesville on Friday night. Coach Richards sustained a broken foot when a play spilled off the field and onto the sidelines, striking him.
He was immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment. Despite the injury, Coach Richards was reported to be in good spirits, even smiling as he was taken from the field. Autauga Academy has called for the community to keep him in their prayers during his recovery.
The school posted, "He was smiling as he left, but we know he would appreciate your prayers." Coach Richards was airlifted to ensure he received prompt medical attention.
The news of his injury has sparked an outpouring of support on social media, with many expressing their well-wishes for his swift recovery.
Theresa Nolette Keith shared on Facebook, "Please join me in prayer tonight for our Coach Antonio Bam Richards who was injured on the sidelines at an Autauga Academy football game tonight. He was taken by ambulance to the hospital—many prayers for quick healing in Jesus’ name! We love you, Coach!"
Other community members added their prayers:
- Erin Turner Freberg: "Sending prayers."
- Chris O’Connor Essary: "Oh no! Praying!!"
- Kacey Webb Powell: "Praying now."
- Linze Whitney Rodgers: "Prayers."
- Melissa McCord Amos: "Oh no!!!!!! Praying so hard!!!!!"
- Emily Lobenstein: "Praying for Bam!"
- Tracey Manzo Meyer: "Lifting Bam up in prayer!"
- Mary Alison Williams: "No!! Big prayers for Bam."
- Tais Paganini Swinning: "Oh no! Praying now."
The Autauga Academy community remains hopeful for Coach Richards’ recovery, with ongoing prayers and support for his well-being.