A Quiet Storm: The Leadership of Tony Dungy

A couple of months ago we all gathered around our televisions to watch one of the most highly anticipated games of the NFL season, Super Bowl XLI. But what is it about this event that attracts so many people to tune in. Sports has become an entertainment realm of America’s past time and has evolved into an atmosphere of friendly competition not only for the teams and players involved but the fans as well. Being a part of the sports industry these individuals are constantly under watch, and being evaluated on their potential. For this reason the opportunity and need for a leader to emerge within the rankings is ever so important. For players and coaches this is just one of the few times in which all eyes point to who can effectively lead there team to victory. This past February proved to be no different as everyone talked about the leadership capabilities of both head coaches, Lovie Smith and Tony Dungy. Remarkable for many reasons, the two were making history as the first African American Head Coaches to have the opportunity to win the Super Bowl.
In a previous post about a month ago I wrote about why I believe Tony Dungy represented the necessary characteristics of an outstanding leader on and off the football field, and mentioned the fact that Dungy has surpassed the expectations of many being an African American head coach, but also by his relentless effort and community involvement. Often recognized for his efforts to encourage his players and coaching staff both on and off the field, his quiet and humble demeanor, qualify him for such recognition. He truly understands the meaning of a team effort and has surpassed the goals of many in his eleven years as an NFL Coach for both Tampa Bay and Indianapolis alike. Like many before him he has expounded his leadership role and resume with the honor of being the first African American Coach to win the Super Bowl, but not only did he use this as an opportunity to expand his football greatness but also to promote his personal and spiritual mission as well. Amongst all the praise and support of winning Super Bowl XLI, there was a small group of people who felt that Dungy used the big game as a platform to display his Christian values.
“I did," Dungy said matter-of-factly. "The Super Bowl has been a big media outlet for the last 20 years and people are always asking players and coaches about things outside of the game. I knew if I ever got there, that would be a platform for me to minister and share my faith. I know it's not politically correct, (but) it's something that's important to me and I don't apologize for it." He may not be the most popular NFL coach, but Dungy has a remarkable spirit to win and persevere in the hardest of times, and the ability to inspire all of those around him. Having to deal with the suicide of his son in December 2005, Dungy was able to take everything in stride and still managed to complete a successful season. He's a man who's spiritual, reflective and even funny. Recognized as the man who changed the face of coaching, with his Christian values, quiet demeanor, and nice guy image. Dungy is a remarkable inspiration and leads by example. Being calm, cool and collected are all traits that Dungy says he tried really hard to maintain over the years, and credits his father as a source of inspiration. "My dad was that way and he always emphasized it's important to be under control, think about the next step in the process, and not over react to what's already happened, but instead try to plan ahead." For these reasons Dungy exemplifies the spirit of an exceptional leader and has a spirit of motivation that will even remind you of your own father.