Eddie Lowe (Canadian football) facts for kids

Eddie Lowe, born on January 1, 1960, is a former professional football player. He played as a linebacker for nine seasons. His team was the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Eddie Lowe also played college football at the University of Alabama. Today, he is the mayor of Phenix City, Alabama. He made history as the first African-American mayor of Phenix City.

Eddie Lowe's Football Journey

Eddie Lowe started playing American football in high school. He went to Central High School in Phenix City. After high school, he attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga for one year. Then, he moved to the University of Alabama.

Playing for the Alabama Crimson Tide

At the University of Alabama, Eddie joined the football team. He was a "walk-on," which means he tried out for the team without a scholarship. His older brother, Woodrow Lowe, was also a famous football player. Woodrow played at Central High and Alabama, then went on to play in the NFL.

Professional Football in Canada

Eddie Lowe was considered a bit too small for the NFL. But he was a great player. So, he was recruited to play Canadian football. He joined the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 1983. He played for them for nine seasons.

In 1989, Eddie and his team won the 77th Grey Cup. The Grey Cup is like the Super Bowl for Canadian football. That same year, he was named a CFL all-star. This means he was one of the best players in the league. Eddie retired from football after the 1991 season.

After his professional career, Eddie continued to help young players. From 1992 until at least 2012, he volunteered. He was an assistant coach at his old high school, Central High. He helped his brother Woodrow coach the football team there.

Eddie Lowe's Political Career

After finishing his football career, Eddie Lowe started a new path. He began working as a banker. He also got involved in his community.

Serving on the School Board

Before becoming mayor, Eddie Lowe served on the Phenix City Board of Education. He was the president of the board for ten years. This role meant he helped make important decisions for the schools in his city.

Becoming Mayor of Phenix City

In 2012, Eddie Lowe ran for mayor of Phenix City. He won the election with 64 percent of the votes. He beat three other people running for the job. His big win meant there was no need for a second election, called a "runoff election."

Eddie Lowe made history when he became mayor. He is the first African-American mayor of Phenix City.

Personal Life

Eddie Lowe is married and has three children. His family includes his famous brother, Woodrow Lowe. Woodrow is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. Eddie also has another brother, James Lowe, Jr.