The University of North Alabama's Pride Rock tradition began in 1994, with the rock making its first appearance at a Lion football game on Sept. 10 at Braly Stadium against Alabama A&M.  Pride Rock is a 60-pound, engraved granite stone with the actual paw print from Leo, UNA's live lion mascot.  

The rock is used as a motivational tool for the Lion players.  It is placed just behind the north end zone at all Lion home games and the players file past and touch the rock on their way on to the field.  It serves as a reminder to the current Lion players of the proud tradition that has been established at the school, and of all the former players who have played a part in building that tradition.  It also symbolizes the pride and unity of  the team and the university.  Pride Rock is also carried to all away football games.  UNA Sports Information Director Jeff Hodges originated the idea of the Pride Rock after the home of the Pride of Lions in the movie "The Lion King". 

Leo's trustee, Joe Wallace, designed the rock, and it was crafted and donated to the university by Richard Beckman of Florence Marble Works.  Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary defines pride as, 1: The quality or state of being proud; a: delight or elation rising from some act, possession, or relationship; 2: a source of pride; the best in a group or class; 3:  a company of lions.

Proud Member of the
Gulf South Conference &
National Collegiate Athletic Association