Alex Mortensen Statement
On Friday, I had a bittersweet meeting with Coach Nutt when I told him that I would be leaving the University of Arkansas and that I will transfer to Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, beginning this fall of 2006.
The competitor in me has been greatly conflicted in recent months. The competitor in me says to stay and grind it out. But the competitor in me is also compelling me to enter a situation where I have a better opportunity play football now. Quarterback is a unique position because in ideal conditions, only one plays. This decision comes after a lot of prayer, counsel from my parents, and people I respect in the football world.
Coach Nutt and I had a sad but wonderful conversation about my time at Arkansas and my future beyond this time. Even though I have been enrolled in school for only two years, I have been a Razorback at heart since September, 2003, the fall of my senior high school year – when I chose Arkansas over more than 20 Division I schools that offered me a scholarship to play football.
Likewise, numerous opportunities to continue at the Division I-A level have presented themselves, but Samford is the place I choose to play without having to sit out a season. Samford has a reputation as a great institution and I’m looking forward to joining their team. I want to thank Samford coach (Bill) Gray for giving me this opportunity to continue my career.
I know that I have given my all to Arkansas and wouldn‘t have it any other way. I told Coach Nutt how much I appreciate the opportunity he gave me to be a Razorback. I thank the entire football staff, and beyond, for those who devote their energies to making all the players here part of a special program. On that note, I also want to express my appreciation to Coach Broyles for building an athletic department that is second to none.
Most of all, I want to tell my teammates that I love them. Saying goodbye to my teammates has been gut wrenching and heartbreaking. But many of them have made this easier, offering their support and understanding and I‘m grateful to them. They are my brothers and I believe they will have a tremendous season that will make Hog fans proud. A chunk of my heart will always be a Razorback and I hope the Razorback family will always consider me one of its own.
With sadness and appreciation, I say thank you and may God bless you all abundantly.
Go Hogs!
