SELMA — When Bobby Humphrey was in high school, his goal every year was to come to Selma for the high school track and field championships.

He won a championship here during those days and returned his $1,500 speaking fee to the Selma Quarterback Club on Monday to help provide the same opportunity to others.

“He told us that is what his going rate is, and that’s a little more than the Quarterback Club likes to pay,” captain Paul Alexander said. “He asked if there was anything he could do and I said it would nice if he would donate it back and said ‘done.’ We hope that’s always the case, but it seldom happens.”

Humphrey, a former two-time All-American running back from the University of Alabama said he wanted to help provide the four scholarship opportunities the  club awards each year.

During his speech, Humphrey joked he made the donation to make sure nobody would leave early, but soon revealed the real reason.

“I’m impressed with what they’re trying to do here,” Humphrey said. “I’m a firm believer in giving back.”

Humphrey talked at length about the importance of getting better every day. He said that was his goal as a player and now in the construction business.

He imparted that wisdom to his son, who is a wide receiver at the University of Arkansas.

“All we can ask for is an opportunity,” Humphrey said. “It’s up to us to get a little better every day.”

Norman Copeland, whose “Roll Tide” yells highlighted the meeting, said listening to Humphrey was a rewarding experience.

“I especially enjoyed the part about opportunities,” Copeland said. “That’s something we should all take advantage of as kids and adults.”