Don Shula dead: Legendary NFL coach and Miami Dolphins legend, dies aged 90

Don Shula coached the Miami Dolphins for 25 years and was the winningest coach in NFL history
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George Flood5 May 2020

Legendary NFL coach Don Shula has died at the age of 90, the Miami Dolphins confirmed on Monday.

A former cornerback, Shula was best known for his 26-season tenure in charge of the Dolphins between 1970-95, during which time he won Super Bowls VII and VIII in addition to masterminding what remains the only perfect undefeated campaign in NFL history in 1972.

Shula, who was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1997, also guided the Baltimore Colts to championship glory in 1968 and remains the all-time leader in NFL coaching wins, with 347.

"The Miami Dolphins are saddened to announce that Head Coach Don Shula passed away peacefully at his home this morning," the franchise said in a statement on Monday.

"Don Shula was the patriarch of the Miami Dolphins for 50 years. He brought the winning edge to our franchise and put the Dolphins and the city of Miami on the national sports scene.

"Our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to [wife] Mary Anne along with his children Dave, Donna, Sharon, Anne and Mike."

Dolphins CEO Tom Garfinkel said: "Today is a sad day. Coach Shula was the rare man who exemplified true greatness in every aspect of his life.

"He will be so missed by so many but his legacy of character and excellence will endure. All my best to Mary Anne and the Shula family."

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