RIP Frank Deford

Certainly better known to the older crowd here. Needless to say, titan in the industry.

Frank Deford, legendary sports writer and commentator, dies at 78

 

One of the reasons I wanted to be a sports writer growing up. RIP.

 

Frank Deford, legendary sports writer and commentator, dies at 78

 

Deford - first sportswriter I wanted to emulate. He wasn't a bomb thrower, or a slob - he brought elegance and humanity to the craft. And the dude could write.

The Toughest Coach There Ever Was

 

Now I have to go re-read The Boxer and the Blonde.

RIP

 

Obviously a top level pick for the Sportswriters' HOF.

I remember reading the Bull Cyclone story, and thinking, "why should I care about some junior college coach in Mississippi," and the answer was, there was no particular reason, but once you read the story, you cared anyway.

And that's good writing.

 

Wow, didn't he just retire? Was he sick ehen he retired? RIP to one of the greats.

 

He was doing NPR commentaries up until just a week or so ago.

 

Damn. Loved this guy. Brilliant writer.

 

A giant. The face of The National. And a stunning story-teller. A piece of sports journalism has left the building.

 

He signed off NPR last week. Also inspired my career, I was fortunate enough that he came up to my office years ago to see a friend and we had a chance to chat. A nice, considerate man to spare a few minutes.

 

Damn. Never met him, but I always followed his work. He was definitely one of the reasons I got into this profession back in the day.

Again, damn.