by Nathan Anderson 

David Lee, OD, class of 1988 at the UAB School of Optometry (UABSO), will be inducted into the Alabama Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame this spring.

“I have always felt that the sport of wrestling helped shape who I am today,” said Lee. “It teaches you the importance of setting goals and working hard to achieve those goals.”

Lee grew to love wrestling as he competed in state and sectional tournaments throughout his high school years. However, he decided to give up wrestling after his sophomore year of college to focus on his veterinarian career goals. After transferring to Auburn University and receiving his bachelor’s degree in biology, he decided that dealing with animals wasn’t for him.

“After taking several large animal classes I changed my mind but still knew I wanted to be in the healthcare industry,” said Lee. “I worked in an optical lab owned by Bill Sullins, OD, and Ralph Winton, OD, and enjoyed not being in a hospital setting.”

Sullins graduated from UABSO in 1976 and has practiced optometry for over 40 years. He is part of the School's  Family Legacy Alumni group since five members of his family have followed in his academic footsteps..

After discovering his love for optometry, Lee transferred to UABSO and received his Doctor of Optometry degree. He then went on to help Sullins and Winton create one of the largest eyecare groups in the country, EyeCare Associates (ECA). He has since had an interest in vision rehabilitation and has coached wrestling for many years while working at their clinic in Huntsville. 

“I coached four wrestlers that went on to win one or more State Championships,” said Lee. “However, I stopped coaching in 2004 and moved into the role of coordinating all the volunteers for the four divisions of the State Wrestling Tournament.”

After 16 years of service to the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) State Wrestling Tournament, Lee was nominated for the National Wrestling Hall of Fame by two members. Although his induction is a great honor, his greatest accomplishment in wrestling has been watching those he mentored and coached over the years find success in their lives.

“I find it satisfying to see my kids and those I coached succeed in acquiring great jobs, become independent and passionate about raising their kids, and giving back to the sport,” said Lee. “Coaching, foremost, and now working with the State Tournament has been my way of giving back to a sport that has been so rewarding to me and my family.”