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COACHING BOOKS
Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by Joe Friel. By VeloPress.
The regular list price is $18.95.
Sells new for $10.69.
There are some available for $10.50.
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5 comments about Your First Triathlon.
- The info was way too basic. Hardly anything on swim stroke. Find something else unless you don't even know what a tri is.
- If you want to do a triathlon and were not sure, this book will give you the information you will need.
- I did my first triathlon (sprint distance) in September after three months training, and I was lucky enough to have found this book towards the beginning of my training. Needless to say I am hooked and can't wait to do another one!!! The book did an amazing job of preparing me by arming me with the information I needed to train properly, learn new sports (I had never biked or swam seriously before), eat right, and avoid injury, and yet avoided getting too "hard core" (when you do your first triathlon you keep wondering whether or not you're crazy). Joe keeps it manageable. There is a scary overwhelmed feeling you can get when you start reading about some of the crazy training schedules and techniques out there -- and he really clears through all that and gets to the essentials you need to know to make it through your training and cross the finish line. For example, his race day prep chapter really helped me visualize what to expect on the big day. Also, I really liked his approach to gear -- you can really get sucked into buying a bunch of stuff -- and he emphasizes ways to work with stuff you already have (ex: your old mountain bike) until you're more experienced and can better select the right gear to invest in. Overall, I really liked his fun-first emphasis, while providing what is clearly well-researched and high quality information. Two thumbs up!
- This book offers a good inital overview for those just starting in triathlons. Might be a bit basic for those who are already accomplished in the swimming, biking, and running. Liked the chapter that outlined what to expect in your first race - good pointers.
- I was a little hesitant to buy this book after reading some of the reviews saying it was "too basic." I found it very helpful, esp the nutritional info. The training plan seems a little unrealistic -- its a 12 week plan that starts out with only 15 minute workouts. All in all, the book included a lot of valuable information that has helped me progress in my training for my first tri, but I wouldn't follow it word for word.
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by John Wooden. By McGraw-Hill.
The regular list price is $18.95.
Sells new for $8.44.
There are some available for $5.49.
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5 comments about Wooden.
- Early in my coaching career, I was looking for a "style" and "philosophy" to call my own. I heard about "Wooden" from a friend - I read it and I instantly connected with Coach Wooden's words and lessons. His approach to coaching as "teaching," both on and off the court, resonated with me and the way I wanted to coach.
When I first read the book, I immediately incorporated Coach Wooden's quotes into all my talks with my teams. They affectionately referred to "Wooden" as the "bible" and many of them all went out and bought their own copies.
Now, I present my players with a copy of "Wooden" as soon as they make the team. The ones that read it all come back with a twinkle in their eyes - its a look of joy and understanding. I don't quote from Coach Wooden as much as I used to - I've found my own "philosophy" and "style" - but, if I ever hit a rough patch, the first person I go back to is Coach Wooden and his teachings.
- John Wooden has been blessed with such wisdom and he has used this blessing to build up and influence millions of people, young and old. I have many books by John Wooden and even though I usually buy them sight unseen I know I will never be disappointed...and I never have. This particular book is jammed packed with wonderful, thought provoking quotes and stories. I will treasure this book, along with all his others, forever.
- I have never heard of John Wooden until last Thursday. This book was recommended to me by two friends, as first I thought how is a retired basket coach going to give me some direction and clarity on life? WOW!!!!! Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down! I took to every word and read it in one evening (not a long read, but it makes you ponder over each sentence) and I was really sad that the book was coming to an end. It's an amazing book, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND it anyone no matter where you're at in life. This is a book that I will refer back to time and time again throughout my life (I just know it!).
- This is one of my favorite books of tidbits. Basically coach Wooden gives his ideas on life, hard work, sports and manners. Through different stories of his life and experiences.
It really was a pleasure reading this book and I feel that the philosophy of coach wooden, based on hard work, trust, learning and being a good person is straight forward and a throw back to simpler values.
- I bought this book for my student/athlete son. I had him read the book and find five things that he could immediately apply to his life. The book is written in such a manner that the parallels between sports and life are seamlessly interwoven. By using sports as a platform of relativity, I feel I am raising my son to be a confident and responsible man. This is a must-read for fathers and sons.
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by John Grisham. By Delta.
The regular list price is $12.00.
Sells new for $6.73.
There are some available for $5.23.
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5 comments about Bleachers.
- It's a good story; makes you want to know whats coming next. Majority of these reviews here have given out the plot, so I am not going to repeat it here.
John Grisham is my favorite writer. For anyone who is Grisham's fan you will love this novel. It's not what Grisham's story is about that makes you love his books but its rather the way he lay down his characters and the way he narrates the story.
Grisham tells a tale to which many of us can relate personally, no matter what it is it can be a small thing from a Christmas dinner to a street lawyer reading a news paper to a crack addict, but you will still love it.
Having listened this book on audio, it is very entertaining because it is read by the author himself with several actors who sounds very much like the radio sports broadcasters, e.t.c.
Loved it.
- It just wasn't my thing. It was recommended to me so I gave it a try.
- Grisham departs away from his normal lawyer dramas and this is what makes this book so refreshing. Having been a former football player myself, this book deeply hit those old memories. Walking upon the gridiron that we labored on since we were barely able to pull our shoulder pads on. This book's plot is pretty much figured a quarter way through, yet Grisham still compels the reader to continue along. Overall anyone who enjoys the sport of American football will enjoy this book, anyone else won't understand the importance of the way football brings together boys and makes them into men, forming a long lasting brotherhood.
- "Number 19 was a high school all-American, a highly recruited quarterback with a golden arm, fast feet, plenty of size, maybe the greatest Messina ever produced." Number 19 is Neely Crenshaw, former Messina Spartan quarterback. Neely has returned to his old hometown of Messina, where his former coach, Eddie Rake, is on the verge of death. Neely's number is the last retired Spartan number, and his return brings back memories of the good old days of Messina. Ultimately, he wonders if Rake loved him or hated him.
Neely meets many of his old teammates, who mostly have changed. Neely, through meeting them, strongly changes thruought the story. Neely and friends spend a lot of time reminicsing- of great games, good times, and friendships. Nate is his former punter, who has changed in an interesting way. Silo, the big goof, is still his same old self.
There are plenty more characters to keep the reader occupied.
This Friday Night Lights-ish story is a step in a new direction for Grisham. It uses vintage football lingo, so non football fans may have difficulty following it. The plot is stable enough to carry the story along, but it's nothing new. However, Grisham does a great job of keeping a reader hooked by adding new characters, who each add something unique to the story. this may be my first Grisham book, but I have heard that his other books are better. Overall, i give Bleachers a 4/5.
- I picked up this book being very skeptical, not knowing what I was diving into because I had heard and read some pretty bad reviews on this book. I love John Grisham and keeping in mind that he is famous for his legal thrillers I didn't really know if I was going to like this book or not. Boy I have never been so glad to be wrong in my life. I read this book in 3 days wishing it wouldn't end. I LOVED the story. I related to it a lot being from a small town myself and living somewhere where our high school football team has built a winning tradition. Not nearly as superb as the Messina Spartans in the book though I might add. I was very moved by the book and I really don't read a lot of this type of fiction. I was moved pretty close to tears towards the end. I can't belive this book doesn't have a high average rating than the one that is on amazon. I really recommend this book to anyone who loves high school football, or to anyone who lives in a small town that revolves around high school football during the fall. John Grisham proves the power of his story telling with this book and although I do love books like The Firm I think he shows us with this book that he can dive into other types of storytelling and keep us captivated just as much. Kudos Mr. Grisham! Kudos!
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
By Human Kinetics Publishers.
The regular list price is $21.95.
Sells new for $13.95.
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5 comments about Training for Speed, Agility, and Quickness: Special Book/DVD Package.
- Exactly what I was looking for.
Some brilliant drills in here.
I was hoping for more speed ladder stuff, but the amount of different stuff in here is great.
It's nicely organized with some good text.
A few descriptions were not so great.
Definitely recommended.
- I thought this book was great for coaching athletes and putting together specific groupings of exercises to work on specific skills. The challenge though was that I bought it for myself and thought it would help me design something to help my triathlon speed. I'm thinking it requires a higher degree of background knowledge than I have at this point.
- This is a great book and DVD set for plyometrics. Both the book and the DVD start with an "Athlete Fitness Assessment" so you can understand the athlete's performance at the beginning of training. This is lacking in many of the other plyometrics books and DVDs, which begin with instruction right away, without emphasis on assessing the athlete's ability prior to training. The materials are nicely organized into sections for Speed, Agility, Balance, Quickness, and Reaction Time. A "Purpose" is clearly defined for each set of drills, so readers at any level can understand the results which the exercises are intended to achieve. I am using this book to see where I am in my performance, and where I need to go. My only complaint is that the DVD plays the drills one at a time. It would be nice to have a "Play All" option in each section, so that I'm not using my remote every 30 seconds or so. The DVD is easy on the eyes and ears, though. Buy this set first, and save your time and money returning the other books and DVDs! Enjoy!
- This is a great book, it covers a wide range of training. I coach little league and have been able to take parts of this book and incorporate them into our conditioning and training at all levels. Have not used the DVD all that much but the book alone is worth it
- This book has lots of drills to improve athletic performance. Although I haven't had a chance to try them out yet (I'm currently injured and unable to train), they seem like they would definitely improve your athletic performance.
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by Ted Williams and John Underwood. By Fireside.
The regular list price is $16.00.
Sells new for $8.97.
There are some available for $7.61.
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5 comments about Science of Hitting.
- having been out of baseball for years, getting back into the game in a men's senior league, i have completely deconstructed my slowpitch softball swing, and can pick up pitches and hit the ball the way i want to. for a young player, this book could be invaluable. i pick it up and reinforce what ive learned by reading sections again and again. plus ted williams' anticdotes as both a player and a manager are a fun way to relive the game the way it was.
- - I think this should be the first book on hitting any baseball player reads.
- Should be "The ART of hitting." Very little, if any, science in this book. Mostly stories and tips from Ted Williams.
- Ted Williams makes a great point that 50% of hitting is from the neck up. Many players are physically capable of hitting a baseball but lack the confidence to do it in a game. Mr. Williams gives some very good information on developing game confidence.
- Nice read, talks about a ton of ideas for hitting better, have used some of them, and have noticed improved power to the opposite field.
Ted Williams was the second best player of all time, anytime he speaks or writes about baseball, it's in your best interest to soak up the info.
- I WAS FORTUNATE TO HAVE READ THIS WHEN I WAS LOANED A COPY FROM HIGH SCHOOL COACH - UNFORUNATELY I NEVER GAVE IT BACK, UNTIL NOW - BUT I DID SHARE IT WITH MY COUSINS AND THEN SONS AND DAUGHTERS - AND NEPHEWS - ALL TO FANTASTIC RESULTS...THIS IS THE HITTERS GUIDE BY THE GREATEST HITTER OF ALL TIME...THANK YOU TED WILLIAMS - AGAIN AND AGAIN...
- This book, along with "The Art of Hitting .300" by Charlie Lau, simply belongs on every ballplayer and coaches bookshelve. This book is rather simple in format, yet loaded with subtle tips and techniques.
Are there books that may be better? Absolutley.
However, these two books are the foundation on which all others are built.
If you dont own it, buy it!
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by Laura Whitworth and Karen Kimsey-House and Henry Kimsey-House and Phillip Sandahl. By Davies-Black Publishing.
The regular list price is $39.95.
Sells new for $24.73.
There are some available for $25.02.
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5 comments about Co-Active Coaching, 2nd Edition: New Skills for Coaching People Toward Success in Work and, Life.
- This may be a product of my incorrect expectations, but the title and subtitle of this book led me to believe it would provide comprehensive elements of the process of coaching and individual development. Instead, I found what I see all too often in training and human resource works: a presentation of a single methodology which the author has developed, which is not very flexible and focuses on the methodology more than the client's results. I think coaching involves processes which are to be flexibly applied depending on individual, environment, other performers, etc. So I'm not a fan on lock-step techniques which we superimpose on everyone as if we're trying to fix equipment. Perhaps with a different title and subtitle, I wouldn't have been expecting something else (and wouldn't have purchased the book). One final comment: I see no indication of validity of the approaches, merely the assertion that the author practices them.
- I'm an Agile coach at a software company and I got a reference to this book from a colleague specifically for 'Chapter 5 - Curiosity'. After reading that section and the toolkit on CD, I read other chapters and WOW!!! This book rocks. I work with teams more than individuals but a lot of the concepts can fall to Agile Scrum teams that are looking to move to self-organization instead of command and control. I look to share some nuggets with my team to help them improve.
- I found Co-Active Coaching to be an easy read and filled with useful information for anyone in the coaching world. The book came with a CD that contained very useful forms and additional information.
One of the things that really stuck out in my mind after reading this book is that everyone is creative, resourceful, and whole. Keeping this in mind when coaching clients will help to stay focused on the fact that people can make the changes necessary to better their lives and move forward. It is not the coach's job to dig into their client's past but rather to help their client focus on where they are today and where they would like to be in the future. The coach is then able to provide tools and insigts and to help pave the path to helping their clients achieve their goals.
I would definitely recommend this book to others, and feel it is a great addition to any coach training program.
Isabelle Zehnder
Certified Family Coach
[...]
- A good solid book on coaching. It is a "How To" guide, but works equally well as a reference. Lots of information broken up into short narrative sections each with own heading. You can thumb through the book and find what you want reasonably quickly.
- Co-Active Coaching, 2nd Edition: New Skills for Coaching People Toward Success in Work and, Life is an excellent resource and is being used as a text book in the class I am taking at Career Coach Academy. I highly recommend this book for the serious student of career coaching...
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by Jeffrey Marx. By Simon & Schuster.
The regular list price is $19.95.
Sells new for $6.19.
There are some available for $5.15.
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5 comments about Season of Life: A Football Star, a Boy, a Journey to Manhood.
- As a young football Coach this book provided a lot of wisdom and good advice. Season of Life is a book that takes the reader through the season of a football team. It takes you through the ups and downs, the glory and the heartache. This book has been endorsed and recommended by the FCA. This book is so real to those of us who know what coaching is like. Its honest, emotional and inspiring. I recommend it to those who have not read it. It should be a must read for all coaches.
- Do you have someone in your life that just inspires you? Are they a man built for others? In Season of Life, there is a true man, a man built for others. The book is an inspirational nonfiction book and Jeffrey Marx, the author of the book, is a ball boy for the Colts because he had a tennis camp across the street of the Colts stadium. He becomes friends with Colt Joe Ehrmann. 15 years later, in Baltimore, Maryland, around 2000, Joe is an activist for the needy, and Joe and Jeffrey meet again; much has changed about the two. I like this book because it is a useful book, because it is about friends, I say this because on page 83 Mike and Ambrose, two players on the team talk to each other after a loss, "'I'm proud of you, man' said Mike. `I'm so proud of you too." Said Ambrose". This is showing the friendship displayed. The book is being a man for others, meaning you must be caring towards others, which is the theme. The quote also supports that, because they are being men built for others by being true friends. That quote shows what inspirational value this book has, and why I like the book. This is a good book for 8th graders and older, and is useful for all.
- I purchased this book for my husband for Christmas. My husband does not read books normally, but he loves sports, so I felt this one was fitting. He read it within a week or two and passed it on to a co-worker. It is a book about life, and he actually was quoting from it after he read it. He loved it and wants our boys to read it too.
- It has been such a long time since anything I have read has spoken to me like this book did. The writing itself was run of the mill, usual sports cliches (some parts read like a sports illustrated piece) - but the message is its strength. After reading it, this book would not leave my consciousness. Days later I had to go back and read passages again, Joe Ehrman's "Building Men for Others" concepts invading my thoughts at all hours. Honestly, I do not even know how this book ended up on my bookshelf. One day I needed something to read and found it sitting there. Only hours later I am left dumbfounded, reflecting on who I am and ultimately determining that I could be doing much more with my life and perhaps finding satisfaction I never knew possible. Please read the book, you'll be glad you did.
- I had heard that this was an amazing book from so many people and I was definitely not disappointed - what a great story of what God can do through the life of one man wholly sold out to His glory! Marx is a journalist who grew up as the ball boy for the Baltimore Colts. One larger-than-life figure on that team of the 70s and 80s was Joe Ehrmann whose life took a radical turn when his younger brother passed away from cancer. After years had passed, Marx once again reunited with Ehrmann and was struck by what he found - the flamboyant football star was now a coach and mentor to young men using the game of football to teach about the necessities of life. Ehrmann's life was now invested in the lives of others teaching these young boys how to be men - Building Men for Others is the name of his program, but it's much more than a program or a set of principles, it's a way of life, a way to see others, a way to live that completely transforms others around you. The book was a great read and should be near the top of "must reads" for every father and coach.
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by Joe Friel. By VeloPress.
The regular list price is $22.95.
Sells new for $13.36.
There are some available for $10.82.
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5 comments about The Triathlete's Training Bible (2nd Edition).
- All triathletes should begin here. Even if you have lots of experience, you should own this book. Everything you need to know, every question you might have, this book will guide you in the right direction. Even after 6 years of racing, and 5 Ironmans, I still refer to it.
- I am an exercise scientist, and triathlete, and this is the best book on periodizing triathlon workouts that I have come across. It is very detailed, so is more geared toward intermediate to advanced athletes. If you are looking for good strength training workouts, though, this book does not have that. The strength training in here is very generic, not tri specific.
- Buy this book! If you are a Triathlete, novice or Elite, this book will help you to train smart and reach your goals! Period.
- it takes either a lot of hubris or some sort of confidence to put "bible" into the title of your book. joe friel doesn't do so without good reason. not only does this book come highly recommended from my collegiate triathlon friends, but in taking a triathlon "class" this semester to help with my pre-season training, this was our supplementary textbook. a great book through and through with advice for athletes on so many levels from a proprietor of the (tri)sport.
- This is a great book for both beginnners and intermediate triathletes. The book contains the basics, as well as advanced techniques, of training. The concept of "periodization" was especially helful for me. It is easy to read and the author fully explains everything. It is does not matter whether you train for sprint events or Iron Man level events, the concepts still apply.
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by Bill Pierce and Scott Murr and Ray Moss. By Rodale Books.
The regular list price is $16.95.
Sells new for $7.49.
There are some available for $7.25.
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5 comments about Runner's World Run Less, Run Faster: Become a Faster, Stronger Runner with the Revolutionary FIRST Training Program (Runners World).
- I've trained and ran 4 marathons. The program I followed was a basic 'run the miles' program. After reading this book, it gives me a new idea into a different training method. This book isn't a mileage book. It's a quality run book. There's information on different areas of running such as recovery, weight training, nutrition, etc. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a different, quality training program. It's worth a shot. And, the methods don't apply to marathons. The book shows you ideas for a better 5-K, 10-K, or Half-marathon.
- I have been on the program three weeks and I am a huge fan. The way the book is structured makes the program a no brainer to try and as you go you can feel your legs "building" rather than just being sore from running too much. Three guys with large brains who have been running for twenty something years and studying fitness for a living for just as long offer up a nice "short cut" on working smarter not harder.
- I am enjoying this program so far. In a nutshell you run 3X a week. One run is a Long run, one a Tempo, and one Interval. This covers the three areas you want to improve on. My goals are to improve my personal bests this year in the 5 & 10K. I also plan on doing my first mini Triathlon. I like the idea of running 3X a week and having more time to train in other areas. Most other running programs have you logging a lot more miles. The proof will be in the pudding in a few months when I go for my PR's.
- A month ago I finished training for a marathon using the FIRST program from the internet (the one with a goal "to finish"). While I didn't finish in my desired pace (5:30), I did feel great while training and was ready to start training again sooner than I ever have been before (1 previous marathon, 10 half marathons). Now I'd like to train for a 2:30 half marathon, and I bought this book hoping it would illuminate the paces (such as ST, MT, and LT - short, mid and long tempo) that are not spelled out in the online half marathon training program.
Instead, I found the slowest marathon time included in the pace tables is 4:51:56 (2:19:03 half). And formulas to derive the paces are not included. The rest of the book has some explanation of why the key runs are set up the way they are (which I read on Runner's World), and TONS of success story letters (which I could have done without).
While I highly recommend the FIRST training program, just get the information from Runner's World or off the FIRST website, set your tempo paces at 5K pace - 15s (ST), -30s (MT), and -45s (LT), and save yourself the cost of the book.
Note: On second thought, I wish I had only given one star, but it doesn't look possible to change it.
- The book describes a new approach to train long-distance running.
The key idea is to cut down to three days of intense running per week augmented by two days of cross training.
The authors provide complete instruction to execute their training approach along with scientific evidence that their approach actually works.
The approach sounds appealing as it can save busy people interested in running a lot of valuable time. The evidence presented sounds solid but I was not yet able to complete 16 weeks worth of training since buying the book.
The downside of the book is that it is a compilation of a series of articles that previously appeared in a magazine. Hence, it is full of repetitions and contains lots of testimonials from people that tried this approach. These testimonials are initially fun to read, but then they get boring.
Summary: the approach sounds cool and worth trying out (I will), but the book could be improved by compressing the essential information in about 40 pages and putting the rest on a website.
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Posted in Coaching (Wednesday, July 9, 2008)
Written by Tony Dungy and Nathan Whitaker. By Tyndale.
The regular list price is $26.99.
Sells new for $12.74.
There are some available for $7.75.
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5 comments about Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices, & Priorities of a Winning Life.
- Quiet Strength was a very enlightening story of Tony Dungy's career. Even through very harsh times, he seemed to discover the positive aspects of the situation. He always believed that god always had a reason for everything, and that every downward slump always meant that certain things would get better in the future.
Tony Dungy started his career as a Pittsburgh Steeler. He was originally drafted as a defensive back (he played quarterback in college). After realizing that the NFL did not give as much opportunities as he expected, the head coach of the Steelers (Coach Noll) gave him the opportunity to be the defensive backs coach. This was the turning point of his career.
From this point on Tony Dungy went to coach for the multiple other teams, until landing his head-coaching job at Tampa. When he took this position, he took in all the information from all of his former colleagues and coaches to help mold his team into a winning organization. He also realized that god played a major role in his success. He also took his fathers knowledge into consideration when he was creating a game plan for his team.
Tony Dungy believes that his second season with the Buccaneers was his most successful season as a head coach for the National Football League. He believes this because that season, he felt the greatest bond between everybody on the team. He thought that because they started the season with tremendous success. They were winning games as a "team", not just as players.
Once Tony Dungy moved on from the Buccaneers he continued to have great success with the Indianapolis Colts. They were even able to win Tony Dungy his first Super Bowl. But throughout Tony Dungy's life he will continue to live life with god in consideration.
- Loved the book, many lessons to be learned, a little too much football at times but if you can look by that it is a quick and enjoyable read
- The autobiography, "Quiet Strength," of Tony Dungy is appropriately subtitled "The Principles, Practices, and Priorities of a Winning Life." Dungy recounts his life from its beginnings to the present as the Coach of the world champion Indianapolis Colts. A man of proactive faith, Dungy has been able to climb many mountains, from being one of the first black quarterbacks in NCAA college football to one of the first black head coaches in the National Football League.
"Quiet Strength" details key formative relationships, those that helped him to become what he is today. They include his mother, The Most Athletic Dungy, who supported in him in a number of sports; his father who taught him what was most important - not the accolades and memories of success, but the way you respond when opportunities are denied; his high school assistant principal, Mr. Rockquemore, who took a great interest in him and Dungy claims things would have been different if he had not; and his first pro coach, Chuck Noll, who taught him how to win in the NFL and how to maintain family-career balance.
Dungy always viewed his work in football as a means to do something more as a servant of God. When he was fired as the head coach of Tampa Bay, the firing itself was not the cause of shock, but rather, the thought that God was allowing this great experiment of using him as a head coach in the NFL to end. He wondered, what's next? How will God use him, whether in the NFL or not.
I am grateful that Dungy went on from Tampa to win the Super Bowl as coach of Indianapolis. More than becoming the first African-American to win a Super Bowl, this extraordinary achievement provided an excellent platform from which to tell this great story.
Dungy's story is inspirational, challenging, and encouraging - reminding us about what really is important in a world driven by the love of material success. He shows that one can live their Christian faith in the workplace and succeed - even in the demanding fish bowl atmosphere of the NFL. He is a living testimony of one man's faith in God.
"Do you your best and let God do the rest."
- This book is fantastic - I couldn't put it down! I have been a big fan of Tony since he was the coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, because of his presence on the football field. This book is an honest and inspiring account of Tony's life and the trials and successes he has encountered. Thank you Tony for a great read.
- As a Steeler fan who is old enough to remember Dungy as a part of the Steel Curtain defense (but not as large as I remembered!), as a Christian husband and father, and as a Patriots hater who cheers for any team against New England, I had three reasons to look forward to this book, and it was even better than I expected.
Dungy's writing, with assistance by a co-author, reads as mild and humble as his (lets face it) nerdy appearance. Despite, or because of, this to-the-core character, Dungy has succeeded at the cutthroat business of professional football at the highest level. Remember, neither of the teams he has coached had any history of winning before his tenure, and he essentially won a Super Bowl with each team (Chucky Gruden won with Tony's players after Dungy was fired, and you can see what kind of success Chucky has had since!).
One of the amazing aspects of Dungy's book is how wide spread his deep-rooted Christianity was amongst the "nasty" 70s Steelers--Dungy, Dirt Winston, Mel Blount, and Donnie Shell not alone made for one of the hardest-hitting defensive backfields in NFL history, but apparently one of its most mature and consistent Bible studies as well. It is encouraging to read about NFL players and coaches who focus on family and faith, not contracts and crime sprees.
Dungy never sounds boastful or arrogant about his faith, usually demonstrating his life lessons from his own mistakes. My tears spotted the pages of the chapter when Dungy talked about his son's suicide and the rest of the way it was hard for me, and for Dungy as well, to focus on football. As he says in a later chapter, never confuse your goals (winning a Super Bowl) with your purpose (glorifying God).
I needed reminding. Thanks, Tony!
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