Don Shula

Don Shula Speaker Biography

On January 5, 1996, Don Shula was named as Vice-Chairman of the Miami Dolphins, in addition to his status as a part owner of the team after serving as the team’s Head Coach since 1970. Shula’s record as head coach of the Dolphins (1970-1995) and before that as head coach of the Baltimore Colts (1963-1970) is unmatched in National Football League history. In 1995 he concluded his 33^rd season as an NFL head coach and his 26^th season as head coach of the Dolphins. He owns a career record of 347-173-6 (.665), and is the winningest coach in NFL history. On November 14, 1993 in Philadelphia, when the Dolphins defeated the Philadelphia Eagles (19-14), Shula won his 325^th career game, moving him past the immortal George Halas (324-151-31) and setting an NFL record for most career victories, a mark once thought to be unreachable.

In addition, Shula won Super Bowl titles in 1972 and 1973, one of only four coaches in NFL history to win consecutive Super Bowls, and his 1972 team went 17-0, recording the only undefeated season in NFL annals. He has appeared in more Super Bowls (six) than any other coach, and is one of only two coaches (along with Buffalo’s Marv Levy) to reach the Super Bowl three straight seasons (1971-1973). He also advanced to the Super Bowl with the Dolphins in 1982 and 1984, as well as in 1968 as head coach of the Colts.

In addition to football responsibilities, Shula always has given considerable time, plus financial and emotional support, to many charities. The Don Shula Foundation, formed primarily to assist breast cancer research, was established as a tribute to his late wife, Dorothy. Shula also has been active in the American Red Cross, the United Way and Catholic Charities.

Because of his success on the football field and his long-time civic and charitable service, Shula has received countless prestigious awards recognizing his contributions including the 1993 Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year Award, 1994 Horatio Alger Award, the Bert Bell Award, the Pete Rozelle Award and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio on July 26, 1997. In addition, along with Ken Blanchard, in 1995 Shula co-authored "Everyone’s A Coach," a highly acclaimed book that outlines the application of their managerial philosophies for business and personal success.

Today, Don’s business interests include a hotel and golf course in the Miami area and a chain of restaurants including Shula’s Steakhouse, Shula’s Steak 2 and Shula’s on the Beach.

Shula’s motivational keynote speech entitled, You Can Inspire Anyone To Be A Winner, emphasizes teamwork, consistency, and integrity.