Al Davis

Full Name: Allen Davis
Profession: American Football Coach and Executive

Nationality:

Biography: Al Davis was an American football coach and executive, best known for his tenure as the principal owner and general manager of the Oakland Raiders. From his association with the team in 1972 until his passing in 2011, Davis was key to the franchise's success.

He was instrumental to the Raiders before taking ownership: first as their head coach from 1963 to 1965 and then as part owner from 1966 to 1971. Davis also had a brief stint as the AFL commissioner in 1966. He oversaw three Super Bowl victories, and was honored in 1992 with an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Born in Massachusetts, and raised in Brooklyn, Davis was competitive from a young age, with a strong interest in basketball. He furthered his education at Wittenberg College and then Syracuse University, where he developed a fascination with football strategy. Davis's first role was at Adelphi University, shortly after which he served in the U.S. Army coaching a military football team to notable success.

Following his military service, Davis transitioned to scouting and coaching at several colleges, including The Citadel and the University of Southern California, before moving into professional football. He became an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Chargers and then made a lasting mark after joining the Raiders. As head coach, he reinvigorated the team's performance and was recognized as AFL Coach of the Year for his efforts.

Known for his strategy and tenacity, Davis left a profound impact during his time as AFL commissioner by initiating a bidding war that eventually led to the merger with the NFL. He resumed his role with the Raiders as part-owner and head of football operations, guiding the team to its first Super Bowl appearance.

By 1972, Davis had ascended to the role of managing general partner, a position he held until his death, boldly overseeing the operations and direction of the Raiders.

Davis has been celebrated for his stance on civil rights and diversity in the NFL, taking principled stands, such as refusing to play in segregated cities, and also breaking ground by hiring the first African American head coach, the first female chief executive, and the first Latino head coach in the league.

His assertiveness also emerged in the legal arena, where he partook in multiple confrontations, including a successful antitrust lawsuit against the NFL that endorsed the Raiders' move to Los Angeles.

Born: July 4, 1929
Birthplace: Brockton, Massachusetts, USA

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Snake
Star Sign: Cancer

Died: October 8, 2011 (aged 82)
Cause of Death: Heart failure