Regardless of who wins the “best team” debate or the game, when it comes to Alabama and Auburn football, for Hoover resident Darla Hall it’s the smallest fans who matter most. In 2011, Darla created activity books to entertain kids who cheer for either team.
Though she is from Indiana and attended Indiana University, after more than half a decade around Birmingham, she has learned the significance the two teams play in the lives of many Alabama residents.
“I am a huge sports fan. I grew up loving professional football. But when I moved here, my eyes were opened to another world of college football,” Darla said.
The idea for the activity books began when Darla was seeking something special for Miles Waldrop, her friend’s young son, who was enduring a long hospital stay after suffering from two broken legs. She searched and searched for the perfect thing, but came up empty-handed.
“I knew he was a huge Alabama fan but I couldn’t find the right gift,” Darla said.

Find out more about Darla’s quest to make the perfect gifts for young fans in the December issue of H Life. Get your copy by visiting these locations.