Pure Gold: Bobby Bowden An Inside Look

Bys: Bobby Bowden, Steve Ellis, Bill Vilona

Book Overview

"Remember, this is a man who is an intensely private guy. His idea of a good time is to go home, put on a pair of oversized black shorts, lie on the couch, and watch old World War II movies." —... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 159670120X
• ISBN13: 9781596701205
• Release Date: September 2006
• Publisher: Sports Pub
• Length: 244 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.3" x 1.0" x 6.3"

Customer Reviews

A multifaceted view of a legendary coach.

"Pure Gold" is a collection of experiences with Bobby Bowden shared by former players, associates, 3 of his sons, and rivals. Charlie Ward's Introduction gave insights into both a great coach and a man of integrity. I was struck by some of the names of former assistants on Bill Peterson's FSU staff. Not only Bobby Bowden but future successful coaches in the NFL and Super bowl champions. A recurring theme throughout the book is Coach Bowden's work ethic and character that he instilled in his players and the assistant coaches that worked for him. The turnaround that he was able to instigate with a dying football program is monumental. From a one-win season to an undefeated season four years later! A lot of the contributors praised the coach for teaching goal setting and for his skill as a motivator. Any Seminole fan will remember some of the legendary trick plays or unexpected plays that are discussed in the book by some of the players that participated. Bobby Bowden had a knack for play-calling and he's been an innovator with his offense over the years. His concept of player discipline has been criticized in the past. It was interesting to read what the guys on his staff and Tom Osborne have said in his defense. That gives another perspective on why Bobby Bowden punishes the individual player and not the entire team. "Pure Gold" is an entertaining read for any Bowden/Seminole fan.