DS

Don Shula

113quotes

Don Shula: A Legacy of Leadership on and off the Field


==============================================

Full Name and Common Aliases


-----------------------------

Don Shula was born Donald William Shula Jr. on January 4, 1930, in Canton, Ohio. He is often referred to as "The Coach" or simply "Shula."

Birth and Death Dates


-------------------------

January 4, 1930 – May 4, 2020

Nationality and Profession(s)


-------------------------------

American football player, coach, and executive.

Early Life and Background


---------------------------

Don Shula grew up in a family of modest means. His father, Jack Shula, was a Greek immigrant who played semi-pro football. Don's older brother, David, also played football at the University of Maryland. Shula's early life was marked by a strong interest in sports, particularly football.

Shula attended John Carroll University (now John Carroll University) on a scholarship and played defensive back for the school's football team. After graduating with a degree in business administration in 1951, he went on to play professional football for three seasons, including time with the Baltimore Colts and Detroit Lions.

Major Accomplishments


-------------------------

Don Shula is best known for his coaching career, which spanned over four decades. He coached five different teams: the Cleveland Browns (1963–1964), Baltimore Colts (1963), Miami Dolphins (1970–1995), San Diego Chargers (2006–2008), and Washington Redskins (not officially). However, his most notable and successful tenure was with the Miami Dolphins.

Under Shula's leadership, the 1972 Dolphins became the only team in NFL history to complete a perfect season, winning all 14 regular-season games and three postseason contests. This achievement earned him the Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year award.

Shula's coaching career is also marked by his impressive record: 347 wins, 173 losses, and one tie. He won six Super Bowl appearances, with two victories (Super Bowls VII and VIII).

Notable Works or Actions


---------------------------

In addition to his coaching accomplishments, Shula was an accomplished author. His book, "Everyone's a Winner in Coach Shula's World," was published in 1995.

Shula also made headlines for his commitment to charitable work. He was involved with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and supported several other organizations throughout his life.

Impact and Legacy


----------------------

Don Shula's influence on American football extends far beyond his own achievements as a coach. His innovative defensive strategies, which emphasized speed and aggressiveness, have been studied by coaches for decades.

Shula was also known for his dedication to his players and staff. He often credited his assistants and players with helping him achieve success. His commitment to teamwork and leadership has inspired countless individuals both in and out of the sports world.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


-------------------------------------------

Don Shula's quotes are still widely referenced today, often for their insight into leadership, motivation, and perseverance. One notable quote from Shula is: "Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence."

This emphasis on striving for excellence has resonated with fans and coaches alike, cementing Don Shula's place as one of the greatest coaches in American football history.

Shula's legacy extends beyond his coaching career. He remains an iconic figure in the world of sports, remembered for his commitment to teamwork, leadership, and excellence.

Quotes by Don Shula

Don Shula's insights on:

He wants to be his own man and be recognized for what he’s done. He’s not asking for anything because of his name. That was a tough situation to go into at Alabama, but he probably wouldn’t have been given the job if the situation would have been different.
"
He wants to be his own man and be recognized for what he’s done. He’s not asking for anything because of his name. That was a tough situation to go into at Alabama, but he probably wouldn’t have been given the job if the situation would have been different.
DS
When you’re there, it’s not good enough to be there.
"
When you’re there, it’s not good enough to be there.
DS
Work isnt work unless you would rather be doing something else.
"
Work isnt work unless you would rather be doing something else.
DS
What I learned from that loss, and also another loss that I’m going to talk about later, was that when you’re there, it’s not good enough to be there, when you’re there, you better walk away with that ring.
"
What I learned from that loss, and also another loss that I’m going to talk about later, was that when you’re there, it’s not good enough to be there, when you’re there, you better walk away with that ring.
DS
And then to end up with a total of 347 wins, averaging 10 regular season wins for 33 years and the best winning percentage, and I’m very proud of this, of any professional team from 1970 to 1996.
"
And then to end up with a total of 347 wins, averaging 10 regular season wins for 33 years and the best winning percentage, and I’m very proud of this, of any professional team from 1970 to 1996.
DS
Anybody that’s a Dolphins fan feels they’re headed in the right direction.
"
Anybody that’s a Dolphins fan feels they’re headed in the right direction.
DS
Because, they’re only thinking about one team when that game’s over. Before the game, they’re talking about two football teams. When the game’s over, there’s only one winner.
"
Because, they’re only thinking about one team when that game’s over. Before the game, they’re talking about two football teams. When the game’s over, there’s only one winner.
DS
I’m just a guy who rolls up his sleeves and goes to work!
"
I’m just a guy who rolls up his sleeves and goes to work!
DS
If you’re going to take gambles, you must have one thing: self-confidence.
"
If you’re going to take gambles, you must have one thing: self-confidence.
DS
You know it’s only 50 miles from Grand River to Canton, but it took me 67 years to travel that distance.
"
You know it’s only 50 miles from Grand River to Canton, but it took me 67 years to travel that distance.
DS
Showing 1 to 10 of 113 results