Linebacker defies the odds

Few high school football players have the story that Mountain Brook linebacker Ward Webb has.

Webb lost his legs in an electrical incident with a power wire when he was 5. A friend lost his life in the incident. But being a double-amputee has never stopped Webb from doing the thing he loves most – playing football.

The Mountain Brook High School senior, who plays linebacker, dons his special prosthetic legs and plays on like everyone else.

Webb has not been reluctant to share his story. Last year, he spoke to kids with special needs at an event for The Exceptional Foundation.  

Although it’s not been an easy path, Webb said he has been grateful throughout his journey for the support of family, friends and his teammates. 

 “My teammates help me a lot, and my coaches have always been real good about it,” Webb said. “My coaches and pretty much the entire team [have influenced me],” Webb said. 

Mountain Brook head coach Chris Yeager knows what Webb means to his team.

 “[Ward] has been a great example of what a good attitude and perseverance can do,” Yeager said. “He is a source of inspiration to me.”

Yeager also noted the tight bond shared between Webb and his teammates. 

 “[Ward] told me, ‘I have a second family with these guys,”’ Yeager said.

As for the remainder of the season, Webb says his goals are simple, both for himself and the team. 

“We just want to have a good season and play as a team,” Webb said. “I just want to have a good season.”