The Power of Perseverance: The 12th Man Brotherhood

Alex Zettler’s story is one of quiet resilience and unwavering commitment. Over six years at Texas A&M, he played mostly special teams and on the practice squad—giving his body to the team, though never the star. When a scholarship that was promised was revoked after his junior year, he faced a difficult choice: walk away or continue contributing to a team he loved. He chose to stay, embracing his role and giving his all to his teammates and coaches. That selfless commitment led his teammates to honor him with the 12th Man Brotherhood Award.

This award is rooted in one of college football’s most legendary traditions. In the 1922 Dixie Classic, Texas A&M found itself battered and running out of players against the nation’s top-ranked team. E. King Gill, a former player and current basketball team member, was in the press box helping reporters when Coach Dana Bible called him down to suit up. Gill put on an injured player’s uniform and stood on the sideline, ready to step in if needed. Though he never entered the game, he remained standing until the final whistle, the last man left on the bench as Texas A&M pulled off an improbable 22-14 upset victory.

Since then, Texas A&M has embraced the 12th Man as a symbol of readiness, loyalty, and selfless service to the team. Though Alex never wore the official 12th Man jersey, his actions embodied the very spirit of the tradition—staying, serving, and making his teammates better. His perseverance also helped him transition into coaching at a young age, proving that those who commit fully to their roles often earn opportunities beyond what they imagined.