Legendary NFL coach Mike Ditka dies at 86
Mike Ditka, a Super Bowl-winning coach and devout Catholic, has passed away at 86. Explore the lesser-known aspects of his faith and philanthropy.
TL;DR
- Mike Ditka, a Hall of Fame NFL player and coach, died at the age of 86.
- He led the Chicago Bears to a Super Bowl XX victory in 1986.
- Ditka was a devout Catholic and credited his faith with guiding him.
- He was known for his explosive temper on and off the field.
- Ditka was a dedicated philanthropist, supporting charities for children with special needs.
- He played tight end for the Pittsburgh Panthers and in the NFL for the Bears, Eagles, and Cowboys.
- After his playing career, he became an assistant coach and then head coach of the Bears, later coaching the New Orleans Saints.
- Ditka was also a cultural phenomenon, inspiring "Saturday Night Live" skits and becoming a motivational speaker.
- He acknowledged struggling with his faith in the past but found deeper understanding through a Bible study.