by Michael Seale
Hartsfield, who played Tight End for Ole Miss from 2000-2004, played on some of the best Ole Miss teams in the last few decades, with current NFL star QB Eli Manning under center. Hartsfield was a vital part of the Ole Miss offense during his time with the Rebels, and said his experiences in SEC football are priceless, although none of those memories could have been possible had it not been for the time he spent as an athlete in Mountain Brook.
"Mountain Brook Athletics provides a unique forum not only for athletic growth and education, but also for invaluable life lessons and friendships," Hartsfield said. "It’s an experience that provides a foundation from which all future athletic endeavors will be based. It provides its participants not only with the facilities and tools to become a better athlete, but also with experiences from which many friendships will cultivate."
Hartsfield said he feels participating in MBA leagues not only prepares young athletes for future athletic success, but it also provides much more. "Personally, I believe these friendships offer a much broader reward than any athletic achievement can provide, Hartsfield said. "It is these teammates and opponents within Mountain Brook Athletics that will one day comprise all of the Mountain Brook High School athletic teams. The more time spent within our own athletic association will lead to greater successes in the Jr. and Sr. high level."
Hartsfield said one main advantage of participating in MBA is the team-building aspects of playing with the same athletes for a sustained period of time. "When I look back on my days at MBHS, our football and basketball teams were comprised almost exclusively of boys I had played with and against in my days in MBA, and I firmly believe this leads to a more successful high school athletic program. Having been fortunate enough to compete in the Southeastern Conference and lined up with and against people from various walks of life, I know that not every community benefits from a strong system like Mountain Brook has. This is not something to be taken for granted."
Hartsfield said he wants young athletes in Mountain Brook today to be able to experience the same joy he had while in MBA leagues. "My time spent as a participant was so enjoyable, that I have now come back to coach in MBA. I believe our system is thriving and I urge every parent to allow their children the same wonderful experiences I had growing up playing sports in Mountain Brook Athletics."