NFL legend Mike Ditka dies aged 86
Mike Ditka was a Hall of Fame football player, 'legendary coach' and leader of the Chicago Bears' Super Bowl XX championship team.
Chicago Bears legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike Ditka passed away at the age of 86 on Friday, his family announced. Born in suburban Pittsburgh to Polish and Ukrainian parents and Irish and German heritage, Ditka played as a tight end for the Bears from 1961 to 1972 and helped win the 1963 championship. He also caught a touchdown pass for Dallas in the 1972 Super Bowl.
As a coach, Ditka led the Bears to victory in Super Bowl XX in 1986, securing a 46-10 win over New England after a 23-year title drought. He was also an assistant coach for the Cowboys in their 1978 Super Bowl triumph. Ditka, known for his hard-hitting style and nicknamed "Iron Mike," became a celebrated NFL television analyst and commentator in his later career.
His family mourned the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, stating he will be remembered forever.
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- NFL community reacts to the passing of football legend Mike Ditka sports.yahoo.com
- NFL legend Mike Ditka dies aged 86 freemalaysiatoday.com
- 'Iron Mike' Ditka hailed as 'gold standard' NFL legend japantoday.com
- NFL-Mike Ditka, Hall of Fame player and Bears coach, dies at 86 channelnewsasia.com
