This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Getting the sad news that former Utah assistant Aaron Alford died today of a heart attack. A defensive back for Colorado State, Alford served as an assistant coach at Utah from 2007-2010 and also worked in administration as Utah's director of high school relations. In addition to assisting the Park City Miners this year, Alford was helping run the New Beginnings Behavioral Treatment Agency in West Jordan. Alford told the Park Record working at the center for youths with troubled home lives was just a new form of coaching. "It's my God-given talent," he said. Normally a quiet, soft-spoken man off the field, Alford will be remembered for his easy-going attitude and friendly smiles, certainly "one of the good guys." Several former players expressed their condolences on Twitter, with Tevita Finau saying "RIP Coach Alford. One of the most positive influences in my life. Dont think I would of made it through college without you." Brice McCain said, "Rest in peace coach Alford. Great friend. Great coach. Father figure while I was all the way in salt lake. You will be missed. Great man." John Cullen said, "So sad to hear about coach Alford just saw him last week, always had a smile on his face always positive RIP coach." _ Lya Wodraska