UofL basketball fans know him as the “handstand man,” the guy who did handstands on the railings during games at Freedom Hall. He’s Sedat Acton, a native of Turkey, who is celebrating his 50th year in the United States.
As a child, Acton took up gymnastics as a way to cope with polio and his exploits as an adult have made him a legendary figure among UofL fans.
Acton’s first game as “handstand man” was in 1968. “Everybody remembers Sedat at the ball games” said Vince Tyra, UofL Athletics Director who gave Acton a pile of UofL gear to help celebrate his milestone.
Acton made Louisville his home and is a proud fan of both Trinity High School and the University of Louisville. He is an even bigger fan of the American Flag he brought with him to the U.S. at age 25.
“There is no place like this country” Acton said.
