Carl McCulley
Class of 2005
During the mid-1960s, a time many consider the golden era of high school football in Huntsville, Carl McCulley emerged as one of the city’s most exciting athletes. Though not physically imposing at 5-foot-8 and 160 pounds, McCulley combined speed, toughness and determination to become a standout performer for Lee High School.
McCulley was named All-City running back for the Generals in both 1965 and 1966 and earned All-Tennessee Valley Conference honors in football in 1967. His athletic ability extended beyond the gridiron. He was also an All-State wrestler in 1967 and demonstrated strong leadership in the classroom, serving as president of his senior class.
Following high school, McCulley continued his athletic career at Florence State College. At Florence State he developed into one of the program’s most productive offensive players. McCulley led the Lions in rushing during both his junior and senior seasons and was named Most Valuable Back in 1969. His senior year proved especially memorable. In 1970 he earned Most Valuable Player honors not only for the Lions but also for the entire Gulf South Conference. That same year, coaches from District 27 of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics selected him as their Most Valuable Player.
After college, McCulley continued his service to his country. From 1972 to 1975 he served as a U.S. Army officer with a Special Forces A-Team. He later served as an officer with a Special Forces battalion in the Alabama National Guard from 1975 to 1980 while also working professionally as an engineer.
McCulley credits much of his success to the encouragement and support of family members and mentors. He particularly acknowledges the influence of his mother, Olene McCulley; his brother George; and former Lee High football coach Keith Wilson, whose leadership helped shape McCulley’s character and determination.
Born November 19, 1948, in Carrollton, Alabama, McCulley later settled in Houston, Alabama. He and his wife Cheryl have one son, Jeff.
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