By Thomas Sellers Jr.

The regular monthly meeting of the Millington Area Chamber of Commerce almost resembled a Memphis Tiger tailgate party with the sea of blue gathering in the ballroom of the VFW Post 7175 this afternoon.

The reason for the large crowd and all the Tiger gear worn by Millington leaders, educators, businessmen and dignitaries was native son Alan Cross. The Millington Chamber wanted to recognized Cross for his success after graduating from Millington Central High School in 2011.

Cross became a Tiger Football standout after walking onto the program under then Head Coach Larry Porter. Cross’ star grew under the guidance of Head Coach Justin Fuente and his staff.

The Millington product and 2011 Star Athlete of the Year blossomed into the best tight end in Memphis history. Meanwhile the Tigers won 10 games in 2014 and reached two bowl games winning the Miami Bowl.

Cross finished his Tiger career with 1,050 receiving yards on 90 catches and 14 touchdown receptions. Cross’ departure from Memphis Football as player coincides with Fuente taking the Virginia Tech job.

New Memphis Head Coach Mike Norvell made the trip to Millington today along side Assistant Head Coach Darrell Dickey to say thank you to Cross.

Dickey noted the hard work Cross put in from day one to overcome the odds and leave Memphis as the best tight end in school history.

For his accomplishments, Tennessee Representative Ron Lollar recognized Cross with Don Lowry presenting the award. Shelby County Commissioner Terry Roland presented Cross with a resolution for Alan Cross Day on February 2, 2016.

And Millington Mayor Terry Jones honored Cross with the key to the city. Cross took to the microphone to give his appreciation to all those who supported him through the years from his SYS Trojan days to him being an All-Region player and Liberty Bowl All-Star selection.

Cross reflected on his road toward becoming a Tiger and said his greatest motivator and inspiration was his father Brad.

The two Cross men fought back tears as Alan expressed his love and gratitude to the man who always believe in his abilities from day one.