| When any Arkansan is asked to name the one person they most closely relate to sports in our state, there is no doubt Frank Broyles’ name will be at the top of every list.
As he prepares for retirement at the end of this year, it is impossible to think about Razorback athletics and imagine what it would be like without Coach Broyles.
His achievements on the field are numerous and distinctive. However, it is his battle off the field that inspires me even more.
In 1999, Coach Broyles’ wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and needless to say this battle changed his family forever.
Studying defenses on the football field for decades prepared Coach Broyles as he looked for a way to attack perhaps his greatest challenge yet.
After years of caring for his wife, and receiving calls and letters from supporters, he sat down and compiled his most impressive playbook ever: The “Coach Broyles' Playbook for Alzheimer's Caregivers: A Practical Tips Guide.”
His playbook has helped countless families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s – letting them know that their fights with this degenerative disease are not something they must face alone.
In 2004, Coach Broyles’ wife, Barbara Broyles, succumbed to the disease, which still has no cure.
While I wish to congratulate Coach Broyles for all of his success on the football field, I also believe that it is appropriate to honor him for his courage and strength in all he has done to combat Alzheimer’s disease.
His accomplishments in college football will never be forgotten, but the hope and faith he has given to families across this country coping with Alzheimer’s will leave a lasting impact on our society for generations to come
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PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 110th CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION 