Closing the Gap: Lombardi, the Packers Dynasty, and the Pursuit of Excellence

by Willie Davis, Jim Martyka, Andrea Erickson Davis

Describing how NFL great Willie Davis helped define the hard-nosed, in-your-face defense of the original football dynasty, the 1960s Green Bay Packers, this revealing autobiography also illustrates his persona off the field—humble yet ambitious, with an infectious smile and a reputation of strict discipline that matched his leadership mentality. The book recounts the competitor as one of the game’s strongest, quickest, and most agile defensive linemen in his time, showcasing a team captain who led the Green and Gold to five championships and earned a bust in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Distinguished from many other athletes of his generation, Davis's success continued well after he took off his pads. His reputation as one of the most respected businessmen in America is discussed, including his time serving on the board of directors for Fortune 500 companies, taking part in various foundations, and speaking to audiences of all ages about his experiences. From growing up in a poor, segregated small town in the South to the intense pressure he endured as a college athlete contemplating his future, this evocation pays homage to a man who has worked hard to achieve all that he has, always appreciating the fruits of his labors with care, respect, and devout passion.

416 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[David Folz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book I bought with the recent passing of him. Willie Davis honestly is a fantastic autobiographer. His story through football, business, growing up amidst the racism he endured and overcoming that and especially in the business field was fantastic!

[Gary Baughn · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's always fun to run through the Glory Years again, but Willie Davis has more to offer than a simple rehash. He is a driven, success-oriented individual, who was always looking beyond football to the business world, and who built a beverage and media empire out of his football connections, his own hard work and his clear vision of what it took to be successful. Growing up in a one parent home, Willie was not allowed to play football early in high school because his earning power was critical to the family's survival. While it was initially his talent that carried him away from that situation, he never betrayed that talent by relying on it alone, he always added hard work and preparation to the equation.

[Jim Melcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than average sports autobiography. Davis' story is literally one of rags to riches. One unique organizing principle was giving each subsection a title reflecting one of Davis' values. I especially recommend it for fans of the Lombardi era Packers, but this is an inspiring story even if you aren't one.