Liles, Grady

Graduate of Coffee High Scholl where he played football, but better known as an outstanding local boxer. He was Southeastern Gold Gloves champion in 1947 and North Alabama Lightweight champion three times. Joined U.S. Marines and became one of the top boxers in the service and later returned to Florence where he regularly fought the featured matches in regular boxing programs, compiling an impressive record against out-of-town competition that included opponents who would later fight for major boxing championships. Ringleader in bringing NCAA Division II National Championship football game to the Shoals, with 25th game scheduled for 2010. Inducted into the UNA Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998.