– Dean Weber, trained Razorbacks for decades, dies at 78
– Dean Weber, Razorbacks trainer, passes away at 78.
University of Arkansas Athletics Mourns the Loss of Long-Serving Employee Dean Weber
FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Arkansas athletics community is grieving the loss of Dean Weber, a beloved and dedicated member of the team for over five decades. Weber, 78, passed away on Tuesday evening, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and service that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Remarkable Career
Dean Weber, originally from Chantilly, Va., joined the Razorbacks’ training staff in 1973 and quickly became an integral part of the team. After assuming the role of head athletic trainer, Weber worked tirelessly to support the athletes under his care. Over the next 35 years, he served under eight head football coaches, never missing a single game throughout his tenure.
In addition to his role as head athletic trainer, Weber also contributed to the Razorback Foundation, further demonstrating his dedication to the university and its athletic programs. In 2018, his remarkable 41 years of service earned him a well-deserved induction into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among the university’s most esteemed figures.
A True Legend
News of Weber’s passing has deeply saddened the Razorback community, eliciting heartfelt tributes from former players and coaches alike. Tim Horton, former Arkansas player and assistant coach, took to X to express his sorrow, calling Weber “the greatest ever” and emphasizing the profound impact he had on countless Razorbacks over the years.
Marvin Caston, former Arkansas fullback and Razorback Foundation senior associate director, also paid tribute to Weber, describing him as a “true legend.” The loss of a dear friend has left Caston and many others devastated.
Chris Mortensen, a long-time ESPN reporter, echoed the sentiment, expressing his heartbreak over Weber’s passing. Mortensen recognized the significant role Weber played within the UA athletic department, not only in terms of physical care but also in forming strong bonds with the athletes he served.
Enduring Friendships
One athlete who formed a particularly close bond with Weber was Darren McFadden, a two-time All-American and College Football Hall of Fame inductee. McFadden highlighted Weber’s sense of humor as a key factor in their friendship, emphasizing how it brought them closer together.
Weber’s impact went beyond his relationships with individual athletes. His contributions to the UA Sports Hall of Honor in 2000 and the creation of an endowed scholarship in his name demonstrated the profound respect and admiration he garnered from his peers.
Reflecting on his accomplishments, Weber expressed his pride in having a scholarship named after him, recognizing it as a significant honor.
Remembering Dean Weber
The loss of Dean Weber leaves a void within the University of Arkansas athletics community that will be difficult to fill. His unwavering dedication, caring nature, and deep connections with athletes have left an indelible mark on the Razorbacks’ history.
As we mourn the passing of this legendary figure, we encourage you to read more about Dean Weber in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and ArkansasOnline on Wednesday, where his impact and legacy will be further explored.
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Dean Weber, trained Razorbacks for decades, dies at 78 | The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, exclude numbers and the word.
