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Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices & Priorities of a Winning Life
Tony Dungy's words and example have intrigued millions of people, particularly following his victory in Super Bowl XLI, the first for an African American coach. How is it possible for a coach--especially a football coach--to win the respect of his players and lead them to the Super Bowl without the screaming histrionics, the profanities, the demand that the sport come before anything else? How is it possible for anyone to be successful without compromising faith and family? In this inspiring and reflective memoir, Coach Dungy tells the story of a life lived for God and family--and challenges us all to redefine our ideas of what it means to succeed. Includes a foreword by Denzel Washington and a 16-page color photo insert.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2007
About the author
Tony Dungy
101 books174 followersTony Dungy is a #1 New York Times bestselling author whose books include Quiet Strength, Uncommon,The Mentor Leader and Uncommon Marriage. He led the Indianapolis Colts to Super Bowl victory on February 4, 2007, the first such win for an African American head coach. Dungy established another NFL first by becoming the first head coach to lead his teams to the playoffs for ten consecutive years.
Dungy joined the Colts in 2002 after serving as the most successful head coach in Tampa Bay Buccaneers' history. He has also held assistant coaching positions with the University of Minnesota, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Minnesota Vikings. Before becoming a coach, Dungy played three seasons in the NFL.
Dungy has been involved in a wide variety of charitable organizations, including All Pro Dad, Abe Brown Ministries, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Athletes in Action, Mentors for Life, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Boys & Girls Clubs. He also works with Basket of Hope, Impact for Living, the Black Coaches Association National Convention, Indiana Black Expo, the United Way of Central Indiana, and the American Diabetes Association.
He retired from coaching in 2009 and now serves as a studio analyst for NBC's Football Night in America. He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of ten children.
Connect with Tony at his website (www.coachdungy.com, his blog,Facebook, and Twitter,
Dungy joined the Colts in 2002 after serving as the most successful head coach in Tampa Bay Buccaneers' history. He has also held assistant coaching positions with the University of Minnesota, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Minnesota Vikings. Before becoming a coach, Dungy played three seasons in the NFL.
Dungy has been involved in a wide variety of charitable organizations, including All Pro Dad, Abe Brown Ministries, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Athletes in Action, Mentors for Life, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Boys & Girls Clubs. He also works with Basket of Hope, Impact for Living, the Black Coaches Association National Convention, Indiana Black Expo, the United Way of Central Indiana, and the American Diabetes Association.
He retired from coaching in 2009 and now serves as a studio analyst for NBC's Football Night in America. He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of ten children.
Connect with Tony at his website (www.coachdungy.com, his blog,Facebook, and Twitter,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 829 reviews
May 19, 2022
Review originally published June 2010
Quiet Strength is a book about faith, Tony Dungy's faith. Tony is most famously known as a professional football coach. In his book, he encourages us to find our gifts and use them to serve others.
He writes about growing up in a Christian home and why family values are firmly rooted in him. He repeatedly gives testimonials on his belief in God’s will in all situations. He relied on faithful guidance when deciding which college to attend, where to play football, where to coach and in choosing his life mate, Lauren.
Throughout his life, Tony surrounded himself with faithful people. While coaching professional teams, he was seeking positive role models in a plan to develop winning atmospheres. His belief was to do the ordinary things better than everyone else.
He frequently uses Bible passages and refers to Bible stories when facing obstacles both on and off the football field. When the media would make him the underdog in a game, Tony would use the David and Goliath story to motivate his team.
When the media said his team couldn’t possibly beat another big team, he compared the match up to hurricanes and tornadoes with the predictable big team being the predictable big hurricane. Tornadoes were smaller, more furious, and unpredictable.
Another of Tony's biblical examples came from 1 Peter: that we should obey the authority over us, even when we disagree. He explained this verse when he needed to make staff changes against his better judgment and went on to say that we are human, and there isn't a guarantee that we'll always make the right decisions, but that we should always pray for guidance.
The events surrounding September 11, 2001 turned into a reflective measure about the things in life that are really important. For Tony, eternity is most important; his career, even as a pro football coach, is not.
After being fired from Tampa Bay in 2001, Tony again questioned God's purposes for him; being a head coach had given him a platform to speak from on matters that were important to him. He put his faith into practice by co-founding All Pro Dads and becoming involved in jail ministry.
Then in 2002, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, Jim Irsay, called. Jim presented his mission for the team which placed emphasis on character, values, family, and community. He wanted Tony as his next head coach. Tony prayerfully accepted.
Shortly after the move to Indianapolis, Tony's eldest son Jamie died. Tony writes about the outpouring of love and support they received. His thoughts through the grieving process are that we live in a lost and hurting world.
God wants us to get beyond ourselves. We should reach out to others, help hurting kids, grieving parents, inmates, struggling fathers and mothers, and anyone who is hurting. God doesn't call us to be successful in the world's eyes; He calls us to be faithful to Him.
Tony finishes his book with his Super Bowl win.
Again, he knew he was placed on a platform in the spotlight to glorify God. In closing, he sums up everything by writing that we should not let our pursuit of goals cause us to lose sight of our purpose.
We can build a legacy by touching others' lives. We just need to do the ordinary things under God's direction to the best of our abilities. Quiet Strength is well done by a faithful servant.
Find this book and other titles within our catalog.
Quiet Strength is a book about faith, Tony Dungy's faith. Tony is most famously known as a professional football coach. In his book, he encourages us to find our gifts and use them to serve others.
He writes about growing up in a Christian home and why family values are firmly rooted in him. He repeatedly gives testimonials on his belief in God’s will in all situations. He relied on faithful guidance when deciding which college to attend, where to play football, where to coach and in choosing his life mate, Lauren.
Throughout his life, Tony surrounded himself with faithful people. While coaching professional teams, he was seeking positive role models in a plan to develop winning atmospheres. His belief was to do the ordinary things better than everyone else.
He frequently uses Bible passages and refers to Bible stories when facing obstacles both on and off the football field. When the media would make him the underdog in a game, Tony would use the David and Goliath story to motivate his team.
When the media said his team couldn’t possibly beat another big team, he compared the match up to hurricanes and tornadoes with the predictable big team being the predictable big hurricane. Tornadoes were smaller, more furious, and unpredictable.
Another of Tony's biblical examples came from 1 Peter: that we should obey the authority over us, even when we disagree. He explained this verse when he needed to make staff changes against his better judgment and went on to say that we are human, and there isn't a guarantee that we'll always make the right decisions, but that we should always pray for guidance.
The events surrounding September 11, 2001 turned into a reflective measure about the things in life that are really important. For Tony, eternity is most important; his career, even as a pro football coach, is not.
After being fired from Tampa Bay in 2001, Tony again questioned God's purposes for him; being a head coach had given him a platform to speak from on matters that were important to him. He put his faith into practice by co-founding All Pro Dads and becoming involved in jail ministry.
Then in 2002, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, Jim Irsay, called. Jim presented his mission for the team which placed emphasis on character, values, family, and community. He wanted Tony as his next head coach. Tony prayerfully accepted.
Shortly after the move to Indianapolis, Tony's eldest son Jamie died. Tony writes about the outpouring of love and support they received. His thoughts through the grieving process are that we live in a lost and hurting world.
God wants us to get beyond ourselves. We should reach out to others, help hurting kids, grieving parents, inmates, struggling fathers and mothers, and anyone who is hurting. God doesn't call us to be successful in the world's eyes; He calls us to be faithful to Him.
Tony finishes his book with his Super Bowl win.
Again, he knew he was placed on a platform in the spotlight to glorify God. In closing, he sums up everything by writing that we should not let our pursuit of goals cause us to lose sight of our purpose.
We can build a legacy by touching others' lives. We just need to do the ordinary things under God's direction to the best of our abilities. Quiet Strength is well done by a faithful servant.
Find this book and other titles within our catalog.
May 11, 2015
Prior to my switching of genres I was primarily a reader of non fiction books. I still throw them in here and there. A couple weeks ago during the Rose Bowl we had some friends over for the game. Our house bleeds GREEN & YELLOW and one of my favorite players is Marcus Mariota (this year's Heisman trophy winner). I was discussing how I really respect him on and off the field when my friend suggested I read Tony Dungy’s books. I knew who Mr. Dungy is because his son played football for Ducks. Whenever Mr. Dungy attended the games he was always put on the jumbotron. My friend told me if I liked Marcus’s attitude than I would like Mr. Dungy's too because they were similar.
Since I read this one and Uncommon: Finding Your Path to Significance back to back I decide to do the same review for both of them. Even though they are different books with related topics they both are a Christian’s perspective on life and football. This book is more about Mr. Dungy's football career.
Here is a video of Tony Dungy talking about Marcus Mariota:
http://youtu.be/1p4PziSPB6o?t=6m33s
Since I read this one and Uncommon: Finding Your Path to Significance back to back I decide to do the same review for both of them. Even though they are different books with related topics they both are a Christian’s perspective on life and football. This book is more about Mr. Dungy's football career.
Here is a video of Tony Dungy talking about Marcus Mariota:
http://youtu.be/1p4PziSPB6o?t=6m33s
February 3, 2012
As a coach and a former Tampa Bay area resident, Quiet Strength has been on my ‘to read’ list for a while. It was well worth the read.
I enjoyed learning more about Tony Dungy—both as a coach and as a man of God. Dungy is a man of integrity, character, persistence and faith. He lead his teams well, on and off the field. I was struck by his persistence and optimism as a coach, year after year.
Dungy is a man of faith. He integrated his faith seamlessly with his coaching style and the example he set with his players. He modeled faith and integrity amidst the challenges of tough seasons, getting fired (in Tampa), and particularly in the tragic death of his son.
I had forgotten about the tragedy that Dungy and his family endured in the suicide of their son James in 2005. His NFL accomplishments in the years to follow are all the more significant in the wake of that tragedy.
As a coach myself, I greatly respect Dungy’s calm and controlled approach to coaching and the respect he garnered from his players despite his demeanor. His atypical style is such a breath of fresh air amidst a league where hotheaded coaches appear to be the norm. Dungy’s accomplishments are a testament to his unique approach.
Dungy was head coach of the Tampa Bay Bucs when my family and I moved to the Tampa area in 2001. It was sad to see him fired from the Bucs the following season, and sadder still to see the Bucs win the Super Bowl without Tongy the following season. Thankfully, many credit Dungy for building the Bucs team into Super Bowl champions.
I “read” the audio format of this book and enjoyed listening to Dungy himself do the reading. This book is a quick “read” (especially on 2x playback speed on my iPod).
I highly recommend Quiet Strength—whether you’re a coach, football fan, athlete or sports buff, or just like a good listen.
I enjoyed learning more about Tony Dungy—both as a coach and as a man of God. Dungy is a man of integrity, character, persistence and faith. He lead his teams well, on and off the field. I was struck by his persistence and optimism as a coach, year after year.
Dungy is a man of faith. He integrated his faith seamlessly with his coaching style and the example he set with his players. He modeled faith and integrity amidst the challenges of tough seasons, getting fired (in Tampa), and particularly in the tragic death of his son.
I had forgotten about the tragedy that Dungy and his family endured in the suicide of their son James in 2005. His NFL accomplishments in the years to follow are all the more significant in the wake of that tragedy.
As a coach myself, I greatly respect Dungy’s calm and controlled approach to coaching and the respect he garnered from his players despite his demeanor. His atypical style is such a breath of fresh air amidst a league where hotheaded coaches appear to be the norm. Dungy’s accomplishments are a testament to his unique approach.
Dungy was head coach of the Tampa Bay Bucs when my family and I moved to the Tampa area in 2001. It was sad to see him fired from the Bucs the following season, and sadder still to see the Bucs win the Super Bowl without Tongy the following season. Thankfully, many credit Dungy for building the Bucs team into Super Bowl champions.
I “read” the audio format of this book and enjoyed listening to Dungy himself do the reading. This book is a quick “read” (especially on 2x playback speed on my iPod).
I highly recommend Quiet Strength—whether you’re a coach, football fan, athlete or sports buff, or just like a good listen.
March 6, 2014
When viewing him on CBS’s “NFL Today,” the first impression one may have of ex-Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy is one of a stiff, mannered, slightly humorless albeit kind man. This is the same impression one will likely have while reading the lion’s share of his memoir. However, on the Colts’ run to the Super Bowl, Dungy experiences a shocking loss to his family, and it is here that the reader begins to feel an unexpected closeness to the coach. In the final quarter of the book, all of Dungy’s mantras bear fruit, and his life becomes a testimony to the solidity of his beliefs. It is in this final section that this memoir becomes a moving work and one that leaves the reader feeling rewarded. One of Dungy’s repeated mottos to his teams was not to deviate from who they were or the plan they had and just to “do what we do,” letting the results follow. This is Mr. Dungy’s approach to the writing of this book, and, in the end, it turns out he was right.
December 4, 2008
This book is all about football and faith. I don't know a thing about football and my faith is questionable so I would not have chosen this book to read. However, it was selected by my book club so I had to give it a shot.
I wanted to give the book 2 stars because the first 100 pages were very boring, but overall, the book has some valuable lessons about faith, family and building a team, so I'm giving it 3 stars.
If you love football, you might find it interesting.
I wanted to give the book 2 stars because the first 100 pages were very boring, but overall, the book has some valuable lessons about faith, family and building a team, so I'm giving it 3 stars.
If you love football, you might find it interesting.
November 29, 2019
How to review this book...
I don’t know if it is more that I don’t like autobiographies or that I don’t like *this* autobiography.
But for a sport and a subject that I love to death (football), it is honestly impressive that the authors were able to make this book seem boring to me.
It did have an uplifting message, many good quotes from the Bible, and good examples of leadership. Tony Dungy is an excellent leader and a good man. Overall, I probably gained something from reading it and it was a positive experience. It makes me want to dig into the Bible more.
But as a book itself, it really couldn’t captivate me or build much interest. Therefore, I can’t give it 3 stars.
I don’t know if it is more that I don’t like autobiographies or that I don’t like *this* autobiography.
But for a sport and a subject that I love to death (football), it is honestly impressive that the authors were able to make this book seem boring to me.
It did have an uplifting message, many good quotes from the Bible, and good examples of leadership. Tony Dungy is an excellent leader and a good man. Overall, I probably gained something from reading it and it was a positive experience. It makes me want to dig into the Bible more.
But as a book itself, it really couldn’t captivate me or build much interest. Therefore, I can’t give it 3 stars.
March 16, 2024
Audiobook.
August 13, 2017
This is a spectacular book. On fatherhood, leadership, personal growth, fathering, perseverance, friendship, love, and faith. On hard work, ethics, honesty, understanding, encouragement, and belief. I have read many biographies, and Tony Dungy is the most humble person I have ever read about. I have so much respect for him from this read and the wee little bit I saw of him as a coach on the sidelines and the even less I've seen of him as an analyst (I don't have/watch channels he's been on.) I would be honored to meet him, thrilled to sit down and listen to him.
Coach Dungy takes claim for nothing, other than his mistakes and misperceptions. He attributes every thing he's learned, every good he's done, every positive decision, impact, or influence he's had to his father, his mother, his wife, his children, his peers, his coaches, his teachers, and ultimately and repeatedly to God. Outstanding example of a firm foundation grounded in his faith and his father's truisms. He shares much of himself throughout the book, a brave and candid thing. He is transparent in his frustrations and failures, grateful and sharing in his blessings and benefits.
This is a good biography told by a good man about many good traits and truths that should be much more prevalent then they currently are. Prevalent, expected, demanded - of ourselves and each other. All of society would be much improved. Thanks for being who you are Coach, and for sharing your heart.
Coach Dungy takes claim for nothing, other than his mistakes and misperceptions. He attributes every thing he's learned, every good he's done, every positive decision, impact, or influence he's had to his father, his mother, his wife, his children, his peers, his coaches, his teachers, and ultimately and repeatedly to God. Outstanding example of a firm foundation grounded in his faith and his father's truisms. He shares much of himself throughout the book, a brave and candid thing. He is transparent in his frustrations and failures, grateful and sharing in his blessings and benefits.
This is a good biography told by a good man about many good traits and truths that should be much more prevalent then they currently are. Prevalent, expected, demanded - of ourselves and each other. All of society would be much improved. Thanks for being who you are Coach, and for sharing your heart.
February 7, 2015
Another one read over a period of time. My step-father gave me this one some 4 1/2 years ago when I left to go overseas to teach, and I have finally finished it.
Student papers and things get in the way, too.
Super Bowl-winning coach Tony Dungy and Nathan Whitaker weave the football and Dungy's strong religious belief together very nicely. It takes a pro to be able to do that effectively.
The content flows better than a fine-tuned offense in its finest game. I got various things out of it, and did sign up for Dungy's online All Pro Dads Internet feed. A few extra words of knowledge and experience can never hurt.
Dungy's coaching strikes me as similar to some of the best coaches I have covered in my sports writing days. Just do correctly what you are supposed to do.
A lot like "simplify, execute, and win."
I think it is inescapable to miss the part from 2005 when Dungy lost his oldest son to suicide. It is a very deep section, and one that might help others deal with close personal loss. This book supersedes football there, and might be worth keeping on the bookshelf for a long time for whenever such events happen.
I am glad I read it, and with it had not taken me so long.
The last lines are thought-provoking.
"We are all role models to someone in the world, and we can all have an impact -- for good."
Student papers and things get in the way, too.
Super Bowl-winning coach Tony Dungy and Nathan Whitaker weave the football and Dungy's strong religious belief together very nicely. It takes a pro to be able to do that effectively.
The content flows better than a fine-tuned offense in its finest game. I got various things out of it, and did sign up for Dungy's online All Pro Dads Internet feed. A few extra words of knowledge and experience can never hurt.
Dungy's coaching strikes me as similar to some of the best coaches I have covered in my sports writing days. Just do correctly what you are supposed to do.
A lot like "simplify, execute, and win."
I think it is inescapable to miss the part from 2005 when Dungy lost his oldest son to suicide. It is a very deep section, and one that might help others deal with close personal loss. This book supersedes football there, and might be worth keeping on the bookshelf for a long time for whenever such events happen.
I am glad I read it, and with it had not taken me so long.
The last lines are thought-provoking.
"We are all role models to someone in the world, and we can all have an impact -- for good."
October 29, 2019
Coach Dungy is an inspiration. He exemplifies Christian leadership and illustrates how to lead through Faith, love and true belief in God. I believe he is a great example for anyone looking to use their role in life to spread the message of Jesus Christ. Coach Dungy is a great evangelist, not through judgment, but through unwavering faith, dedication and love.
December 12, 2020
This book may be found in the sports section, but it is so much more than just a sports book. This book has taught me life lessons that I could have never imagined I would learn from it. In this book Tony Dungy teaches more about overcoming adversity than anything else, and he has the starting credentials. Tony lost his Mom, Dad, and Son all within a span of three years while trying to lead a successful NFL team and be the head of a household for his wife and six children.
Tony is a man of God, and loves talking about his love for god and how much he means to him. He uses repetition a lot when it comes to this subject, but I enjoy it. He is constantly showing us how he uses his faith to make his life better through the book. One of my favorite aspects of Tony’s life is how seamlessly he is able to integrate his faith into his coaching style. In the day of age with quick tempered and hothead coaches, Tony always found a way to be calm in the most stressful situations, and he attest all of that to his faith.
Throughout the book there seems to be a rhetorical question that pops up on multiple occasions, “what are you going to do to make the situation better”. To the naked eye this probably doesn't mean much, everyone wants to make their situation better, but I think that there is a much bigger picture around this question. I think that is, what steps are you taking TODAY, to become a better person and make things better for yourself.
There are multiple examples in this book of pathos and they all seem to have a common theme, his parents. Dungy talks about his parents on numerous occasions throughout the book, but most of the time it is with a life lesson. He talks on what great volumes his parents meant to him and not knowing where he would be without them. He says that his father taught him and his siblings “how to fly” and be the best they can be, and live their life to the fullest and Tony never took those words of wisdom for granted.
This book is a memoir which means that during the book there are multiple times where Dungy is directing his voice right to the reader. It is full of informal language, my favorite coming when Tony shares some of his life lessons whether passed down from his father or learned himself. Tony says “Don't let anybody define you, keep making the situation better and be the best you can be.”
I believe that this book is a great segway into the Bible, if you are looking for a heartwarming life filled with adversity and triumph, you've found your book.
-Izak Mock
Tony is a man of God, and loves talking about his love for god and how much he means to him. He uses repetition a lot when it comes to this subject, but I enjoy it. He is constantly showing us how he uses his faith to make his life better through the book. One of my favorite aspects of Tony’s life is how seamlessly he is able to integrate his faith into his coaching style. In the day of age with quick tempered and hothead coaches, Tony always found a way to be calm in the most stressful situations, and he attest all of that to his faith.
Throughout the book there seems to be a rhetorical question that pops up on multiple occasions, “what are you going to do to make the situation better”. To the naked eye this probably doesn't mean much, everyone wants to make their situation better, but I think that there is a much bigger picture around this question. I think that is, what steps are you taking TODAY, to become a better person and make things better for yourself.
There are multiple examples in this book of pathos and they all seem to have a common theme, his parents. Dungy talks about his parents on numerous occasions throughout the book, but most of the time it is with a life lesson. He talks on what great volumes his parents meant to him and not knowing where he would be without them. He says that his father taught him and his siblings “how to fly” and be the best they can be, and live their life to the fullest and Tony never took those words of wisdom for granted.
This book is a memoir which means that during the book there are multiple times where Dungy is directing his voice right to the reader. It is full of informal language, my favorite coming when Tony shares some of his life lessons whether passed down from his father or learned himself. Tony says “Don't let anybody define you, keep making the situation better and be the best you can be.”
I believe that this book is a great segway into the Bible, if you are looking for a heartwarming life filled with adversity and triumph, you've found your book.
-Izak Mock
December 14, 2022
Quiet Strength by Tony Dungy is a book about how an NFL coach persevered through racial discrimination and how he put Christ first in his life. The book took place in 2006-2007, the year the colts won the Super Bowl against the Chicago Bears.
The book dragged you in like a fisherman would do to a fish, (simile) once you read a page of the book it was hard to close the book and put it away. The book overall wasn’t good but it also wasn't bad, the book always had just enough interest to keep you reading. (Paradox)
He always wanted role models on his team to create a winning team. People needed other people to look up to. When his team came into a game with people saying they would lose, he read the David and Goliath story to motivate them, but why would he read this story?
(Rhetorical Question) He did this because of his religious roots in his family, they would do the same thing when they encountered certain situations when they were in a bad position. He said he knew god took his hand to place him in this place(personification) where he could speak on his priorities and spread his opinion on Christ.
The book dragged you in like a fisherman would do to a fish, (simile) once you read a page of the book it was hard to close the book and put it away. The book overall wasn’t good but it also wasn't bad, the book always had just enough interest to keep you reading. (Paradox)
He always wanted role models on his team to create a winning team. People needed other people to look up to. When his team came into a game with people saying they would lose, he read the David and Goliath story to motivate them, but why would he read this story?
(Rhetorical Question) He did this because of his religious roots in his family, they would do the same thing when they encountered certain situations when they were in a bad position. He said he knew god took his hand to place him in this place(personification) where he could speak on his priorities and spread his opinion on Christ.
December 5, 2023
This book was a recommendation as I am someone fairly new to Indiana football, but also fairly new to the world of coaching sports at a competitive level. An intriguing read, I enjoyed immensely.
The rigger, the long hours, the travel, the constant back and forth. Lauren takes it on impressively through the ups and downs the Dungys face very personally.
A biographical blend of faith, drive, perseverance, and STRENGTH all deeply rooted in family. I was not familiar with Tony Dungy before this recommendation, but I am so glad I now am! Words I have highlighted and circled over and over. Tony says it beautifully, “Lauren and I view coaching as a ministry.” Tony (and his wife) do carry out a ministry, uplifting these men to be well rounded individuals, leaders of their communities, and devout husbands and fathers beyond the football field.
The rigger, the long hours, the travel, the constant back and forth. Lauren takes it on impressively through the ups and downs the Dungys face very personally.
A biographical blend of faith, drive, perseverance, and STRENGTH all deeply rooted in family. I was not familiar with Tony Dungy before this recommendation, but I am so glad I now am! Words I have highlighted and circled over and over. Tony says it beautifully, “Lauren and I view coaching as a ministry.” Tony (and his wife) do carry out a ministry, uplifting these men to be well rounded individuals, leaders of their communities, and devout husbands and fathers beyond the football field.
February 9, 2022
I loved this easy-to-read, very softly/calmly read book, by a man of great character and inner strength and love. In parenting, coaching, and in his relationship to God, Coach Dungy is exemplary. I knew there was something special about him from the times I watched him work as a sports commentator.
He has suffered through some tough times and showed great dignity in his decisions and actions.
I knew he had a decent record as an NFL coach, but I didn't know what an amazing PERSON and FATHER and HUSBAND he was until I read this book.
In the research I've done after reading the book, I saw an interview where he showed pictures of himself with his biological family, his adoptive children, and even a small foster child. The entire family shows what walking the talk means.
Led by God, his patient and quiet spirit is rare and much appreciated. Good book. Inspirational.
He has suffered through some tough times and showed great dignity in his decisions and actions.
I knew he had a decent record as an NFL coach, but I didn't know what an amazing PERSON and FATHER and HUSBAND he was until I read this book.
In the research I've done after reading the book, I saw an interview where he showed pictures of himself with his biological family, his adoptive children, and even a small foster child. The entire family shows what walking the talk means.
Led by God, his patient and quiet spirit is rare and much appreciated. Good book. Inspirational.
June 21, 2021
I became a Colts football fan in my twenties when I lived in the Indianapolis area post college. Like many others, I have always had great respect and admiration for Coach Tony Dungy. To be a head coach in the NFL is pretty rare and he always seemed to be even more of a rarity in that arena due to his demeanor, integrity and character. This book is not anything amazing but does give insight into Tony Dungy, where he came from and many of his guiding principles throughout his life. He shares several personal stories regarding his career, family and faith. I felt like I was sitting across the table just getting to know his story, which I enjoyed.
May 27, 2024
Good read. As most ghost-written Sports bios are (and as one Maddog Posey would say), it was written at an elementary school level. Good messages and excellent practical example of what “spiritual leadership” can look like. Felt like some ideas weren’t fleshed out enough or even completed at times. OOP. S/o Mar AGAIN for assigning this book for course (yes, I am finishing the book two weeks after the semester ended) and special s/o to Danielle Friedrich for letting me borrow her copy.
September 21, 2019
"God has placed each of us where we are for a reason; within our spheres of influence at work, in our neighborhoods, in our families. He wants us to touch lives wherever He leads us."
Wonderful insight into a life well lived; using the simple, ordinary life principles found in the Bible to make a difference in the lives of those around him, Tony Dungy has single-handedly branded the phrase "mentor leader". He has not only "talked the talk" , but "walked the walk, even when his faith was severely tested.
It's no wonder this book has been a best seller!
Wonderful insight into a life well lived; using the simple, ordinary life principles found in the Bible to make a difference in the lives of those around him, Tony Dungy has single-handedly branded the phrase "mentor leader". He has not only "talked the talk" , but "walked the walk, even when his faith was severely tested.
It's no wonder this book has been a best seller!
July 11, 2024
Coach Dungy is an amazing Christian influence, and his words have made a huge impact on my life. I use his devotional books as one of my daily devotionals. His stories of not only football, but also the things he has been through, and how he handled the loss of his son will challenge you to focus on Christ, even in the midst of tragedy and hardship.
October 29, 2017
Faith, Family, and Football. If there was ever any one person who you would want saying there were more important things than football - even if they told you that in the middle of the darn Super Bowl - it would have to be Coach Tony Dungy. Throughout every single page of his entire autobiography, the reader senses and admires how faithful Tony has been to His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, throughout his entire life, in both his personal and professional lives. The fact that he continued his devout practices as a head coach in the ruthless and hard-hitting National Football League and saw his faith-based philosophies bring years of success to two championship-winning franchises is a true testament to this man and the power in trusting God’s will.
I was thoroughly surprised while reading this autobiography, as I came into it fully expecting to hear a lot of Tony’s faith while only hearing a small portion of his sporting career. It turns out that he balanced his life’s story pretty well, with plenty of commentary centered around every year of his football life, from player to coach, franchise to franchise, and, unfortunately, the consistent revolving door of heartbreaking defeats. I should’ve expected this, especially having read numerous sporting biographies over the past couple years; even for the most devout athlete, in order to communicate their journey of faith with the general public they must first take the reader through their life’s story, which cannot be fully told without detailing their claim to fame and athletic career. Tony’s autobiography, though chock-full of numerous themes and references of faith, is also a solid commentary on his professional football career. (So rejoice, sporting fans, who were weary of reading a book they thought would just be about religion!) Tony’s football journey transcends several eras, from both times of prejudice and fewer opportunities for blacks to times where every man is given a fair chance to play and coach on a professional football team, regardless of race. Occasionally, the details are lacking - even on some of the Buccaneer's or Colt’s biggest games - but otherwise, Tony does a good job in highlighting each year he spent in the NFL and what he feels is the biggest takeaway from each.
As Tony’s first venture into fully documenting his faith-filled football journey - one season following his historic Super Bowl victory as the first African American coach to win it all, “Quiet Strength” fully delivers on exploring who Coach Tony Dungy is and how his God-inspired philosophies brought numerous successes both on-and-off the field for his respective teams - both their coaches and players and their families, as well as the loyal fanbases. We should all aspire to be like Tony.
I was thoroughly surprised while reading this autobiography, as I came into it fully expecting to hear a lot of Tony’s faith while only hearing a small portion of his sporting career. It turns out that he balanced his life’s story pretty well, with plenty of commentary centered around every year of his football life, from player to coach, franchise to franchise, and, unfortunately, the consistent revolving door of heartbreaking defeats. I should’ve expected this, especially having read numerous sporting biographies over the past couple years; even for the most devout athlete, in order to communicate their journey of faith with the general public they must first take the reader through their life’s story, which cannot be fully told without detailing their claim to fame and athletic career. Tony’s autobiography, though chock-full of numerous themes and references of faith, is also a solid commentary on his professional football career. (So rejoice, sporting fans, who were weary of reading a book they thought would just be about religion!) Tony’s football journey transcends several eras, from both times of prejudice and fewer opportunities for blacks to times where every man is given a fair chance to play and coach on a professional football team, regardless of race. Occasionally, the details are lacking - even on some of the Buccaneer's or Colt’s biggest games - but otherwise, Tony does a good job in highlighting each year he spent in the NFL and what he feels is the biggest takeaway from each.
As Tony’s first venture into fully documenting his faith-filled football journey - one season following his historic Super Bowl victory as the first African American coach to win it all, “Quiet Strength” fully delivers on exploring who Coach Tony Dungy is and how his God-inspired philosophies brought numerous successes both on-and-off the field for his respective teams - both their coaches and players and their families, as well as the loyal fanbases. We should all aspire to be like Tony.
May 15, 2023
Easy/fun read and great message. They should change the part where Dungy got replaced by Gruden tho. Felt a little forced for the sake of the plot.
May 22, 2024
Really enjoyed this book.
Loved the insight, inspiration, and coaching wisdom
Tony Dungy gave.
Loved the insight, inspiration, and coaching wisdom
Tony Dungy gave.
May 7, 2017
Great listen via audiobook. The book made me respect him even more, considering all he's been through and what he stands for.
May 3, 2021
Awesome coach and great Christian man. Going through his devotional right now too - great wisdom.
September 3, 2024
A great story from a great coach!
April 1, 2009
Spoiler: Dungy finally wins a Superbowl as a coach with the Indianapolis Colts.
I had heard good things about this book especially from the perspective of being a Christian. Because I have a certain disdain for the Indianapolis Colts that I can't quite explain, I was reluctant to pick it up and give it a try. I didn't want to read a book by the guy who had beaten the Patriots in an emotionally fought AFC Championship game.
I finally picked it up at Walmart when I was looking for something to read at dinner on a "night off". Once I got into it, I was hooked and continued happily even knowing I would have to read about the aforementioned AFC Championship game.
Dungy seems to be an outstanding guy in every sense of the word and in every aspect of his life. The one area that may not strike me as being outstanding was his being a parent, and that one he might actually agree with me. That isn't to say that he didn't do his best with the job that he choose to make his family life work out as best as possible.
His Christian witness is inspiring and wide reaching. I wish he had gone into more detail about his faith, but I plan on reading his next book, Uncommon, and perhaps he will dive into that topic a bit more.
I had not known that Dungy lost a son to suicide. That came as a shock to me and it almost made me feel guilty for despising his team. His treatment of his son's suicide may seem brief and almost superficial, but the fact that he talks about it at all is amazing considering that he didn't want to write about his family much at all (as stated in the introduction to the book). He has been able to touch a lot of lives because of that tragedy and all for the better.
I would recommend this book to just about anyone. It is an easy read (a slow reader like me finished it in about a week's worth of reading) and won't dazzle you with style, but I think it is worth the time to find out how one man lived his life in the NFL.
I had heard good things about this book especially from the perspective of being a Christian. Because I have a certain disdain for the Indianapolis Colts that I can't quite explain, I was reluctant to pick it up and give it a try. I didn't want to read a book by the guy who had beaten the Patriots in an emotionally fought AFC Championship game.
I finally picked it up at Walmart when I was looking for something to read at dinner on a "night off". Once I got into it, I was hooked and continued happily even knowing I would have to read about the aforementioned AFC Championship game.
Dungy seems to be an outstanding guy in every sense of the word and in every aspect of his life. The one area that may not strike me as being outstanding was his being a parent, and that one he might actually agree with me. That isn't to say that he didn't do his best with the job that he choose to make his family life work out as best as possible.
His Christian witness is inspiring and wide reaching. I wish he had gone into more detail about his faith, but I plan on reading his next book, Uncommon, and perhaps he will dive into that topic a bit more.
I had not known that Dungy lost a son to suicide. That came as a shock to me and it almost made me feel guilty for despising his team. His treatment of his son's suicide may seem brief and almost superficial, but the fact that he talks about it at all is amazing considering that he didn't want to write about his family much at all (as stated in the introduction to the book). He has been able to touch a lot of lives because of that tragedy and all for the better.
I would recommend this book to just about anyone. It is an easy read (a slow reader like me finished it in about a week's worth of reading) and won't dazzle you with style, but I think it is worth the time to find out how one man lived his life in the NFL.
Read
November 7, 2023Very enjoyable and inspiring. A great recommendation for a young man who loves sports or who wants to do great things!
February 28, 2011
First of all I would like to say this is a great book and recommend that everyone reads this book!
This book is an over view of the life of legendary NFL head Coach Tony Dungy, from the first time he started coaching. This book keeps the reader hooked with unexspected twists, insperation, and the strength of one man and the impact he had not only on football but also in the lives of everyone he met.
The theme of Quiet Strength is that no matter what happans in life you can always work your way through the problem and become a better person. Tony reveals this to the reader throughout the book. He has gone through about as much as anyone can but over and over he proves that with the stregth of God all things are possible.
The character devolopment is very evident in this book. The further you read the more you can see how he grows stronger and is able to resist temptation and go against the grain. While everyone tells him he should do it this way he listens to God and through that he becomes a stronger person.
This book, Quiet Strength, has been a personal favorite. I have never before read a book that has given me more incouragement and has shown me more life lessons then this book has. I recommend that everyone reads this book because you will never regret doing it.
This book is an over view of the life of legendary NFL head Coach Tony Dungy, from the first time he started coaching. This book keeps the reader hooked with unexspected twists, insperation, and the strength of one man and the impact he had not only on football but also in the lives of everyone he met.
The theme of Quiet Strength is that no matter what happans in life you can always work your way through the problem and become a better person. Tony reveals this to the reader throughout the book. He has gone through about as much as anyone can but over and over he proves that with the stregth of God all things are possible.
The character devolopment is very evident in this book. The further you read the more you can see how he grows stronger and is able to resist temptation and go against the grain. While everyone tells him he should do it this way he listens to God and through that he becomes a stronger person.
This book, Quiet Strength, has been a personal favorite. I have never before read a book that has given me more incouragement and has shown me more life lessons then this book has. I recommend that everyone reads this book because you will never regret doing it.
October 5, 2008
The book is somewhat interesting to get some insight into the NFL, different coaching styles and yes, getting to know a few funny anecdotes about the Dungy family.
But there isn't enough detail or specific information to really understand how he has accomplished all that he has. It's all very passive sounding. Because he attributes so much of the good in his life to his faith it would almost lead one to believe that he has had almost nothing to do with his own successes. It's almost as if to say if you are a good Christian, who works hard and stays out of trouble then God will reward you.
Not to overlook the tragedy and hardship he has experienced. But his explanations for getting through those times left me a little cold too. It was almost like he has a trigger response to bad things happening which is to say "Well I guess God has a plan. There's a reason this happened." Whether it's losing his job in Tampa or losing his son he didn't try to understand what happened because he assumed you couldn't.
Guess I was looking for more insight into how faith actually helped him and some unique insight into his achievments.
But there isn't enough detail or specific information to really understand how he has accomplished all that he has. It's all very passive sounding. Because he attributes so much of the good in his life to his faith it would almost lead one to believe that he has had almost nothing to do with his own successes. It's almost as if to say if you are a good Christian, who works hard and stays out of trouble then God will reward you.
Not to overlook the tragedy and hardship he has experienced. But his explanations for getting through those times left me a little cold too. It was almost like he has a trigger response to bad things happening which is to say "Well I guess God has a plan. There's a reason this happened." Whether it's losing his job in Tampa or losing his son he didn't try to understand what happened because he assumed you couldn't.
Guess I was looking for more insight into how faith actually helped him and some unique insight into his achievments.
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