Dee Foster Worley
Class of 2013
Dione Foster Worley’s journey from Huntsville’s Grissom High School to the national stage of collegiate gymnastics is one of exceptional talent and relentless determination. Known as “Dee Dee” in her early years, she made history in 1984 at just 13 years old as Alabama’s first Elite Gymnast. By the time she reached high school, she was already a member of the USA National Team, competing nationally and internationally at the highest levels. An untimely injury at 16 kept her from the 1988 Olympic Trials, but her resolve never wavered.
In 1989, Worley became the first African-American woman to sign an athletic scholarship with the University of Alabama gymnastics program. Under legendary coach Sarah Patterson, she quickly emerged as a dominant collegiate star. From 1989 to 1993, she earned 17 All-America honors, won four NCAA championships, and claimed nine regional titles. Her senior season was historic—she scored perfect 10s in five consecutive meets, set an NCAA record, and was ranked the nation’s No. 1 all-around gymnast. She was named SEC Female Athlete of the Year, SEC Freshman of the Year, NCAA Gymnast of the Year, and Alabama’s Amateur Athlete of the Year. She remains the only NCAA gymnast to place in the top three in the all-around for four straight years.
Beyond athletics, Worley credits her mother, Edie Foster, for her success, citing her sacrifices and unwavering support. Today, alongside her husband, former Georgia All-American running back Tim Worley, she co-leads Worley Global Enterprises, a Huntsville-based firm focused on business consulting, mentoring, and motivational speaking. Their children, Brandon and Taylor, are a part of their shared legacy of faith, hard work, and community impact.
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