Dick Vermeil

Dick Vermeil

Dick Vermeil coaching on the sidelines

Richard Albert Vermeil, commonly known as Dick Vermeil, is a retired American football coach who is best known for his tenure in the National Football League (NFL). Born on October 30, 1936, in Calistoga, California, Vermeil's coaching career spanned several decades, during which he became renowned for his motivational skills and ability to turn struggling teams into contenders.

Early Life and Education

Vermeil was born and raised in Calistoga, a small town in the Napa Valley region of California. He attended Calistoga High School, where he played American football as a quarterback. After high school, Vermeil attended San Jose State University, where he continued to play football and earned a degree in physical education.

Coaching Career

College Coaching

Vermeil began his coaching career at the college level, serving as an assistant coach at several universities, including Stanford University and UCLA. His first head coaching position came at UCLA, where he led the Bruins to a Rose Bowl victory in 1976.

NFL Coaching

Vermeil's success at UCLA caught the attention of the NFL, and he was hired as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles in 1976. Under his leadership, the Eagles improved significantly, culminating in an appearance in Super Bowl XV in 1981.

After a brief retirement, Vermeil returned to the NFL to coach the St. Louis Rams. In 1999, he led the Rams to victory in Super Bowl XXXIV, earning a reputation for his emotional coaching style and ability to inspire his players.

Vermeil later coached the Kansas City Chiefs, where he continued to demonstrate his coaching prowess until his retirement in 2005.

Coaching Style

Vermeil was known for his intense and emotional coaching style. He was deeply involved in the personal lives of his players, often forming strong bonds with them. His ability to motivate and inspire was a hallmark of his coaching career, and he was respected for his dedication and passion for the game.

Post-Coaching Career

Vermeil Wines in Calistoga, California

After retiring from coaching, Vermeil pursued a career in the wine industry. He founded Vermeil Wines, a winery located in his hometown of Calistoga. The winery produces a variety of wines, reflecting Vermeil's lifelong connection to the Napa Valley.

Legacy

Vermeil's legacy in the NFL is marked by his ability to transform teams and his emotional connection with players. He is remembered as a coach who not only achieved success on the field but also made a lasting impact on the lives of those he coached.

Related Pages

• Philadelphia Eagles
• St. Louis Rams
• Kansas City Chiefs
• Super Bowl
• Napa Valley