Tony Dungy

With the retirement of Tony Dungy as Colts head coach this week, I thought I'd share the story of my one encounter with him.

Tony wrote a book called "Quiet Strength", and went on a book tour to support it. One day, he scheduled a few book signings in Indianapolis. My friend who manages one of the bookstores where a signing was scheduled, asked me if I would be interested in interviewing him.

I instantly said yes.

So there I am, in the bookstore where hundreds of people have been waiting in line for hours for the signing to begin, and I am waiting somewhat nervously to do my 5 minute interview.

I had a few questions in mind, but I gotta tell you I was a nervous wreck. I'd heard what a nice guy he was, but this is the head coach of the Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts!!!

He came out into the designated press area in the middle of the bookstore, surrounded by everyone that was waiting in line for the book signing. There was applause, and then the Coach came over to me for the interview.

It went well, I had asked about the different type of media he was dealing with for publicity for the book, as opposed to the sports media he usually deals with. We were off and running.

I had absolutely no reason to be nervous, he made me feel completely at ease.

After the interview concluded, I thanked the coach for his time and came to one horrific realization.

I forgot to bring my camera!!! I can't believe it!! A picture with coach Dungy would be a once in a lifetime thing, and I blew it!

Oh well, that was just a small blip on a pretty good afternoon.

He says that he will still maintain connections with Indianapolis, I hope so.

I want another chance at getting that pic!! hehe