Two Las Vegas Raiders legends, John Madden and Al Davis, will be receiving a distinct honor this coming weekend. The California Sports Hall of Fame will be inducting the duo on June 26th.
John Madden and Al Davis
Though this particular Hall of Fame doesn’t have a permanent physical location, the ceremony will take place at the Ontario Convention Center in Ontario, California. As most Raiders know, the Silver and Black endured a terrible loss late last year. That loss was Madden when he passed away on December 28th, 2012. The legendary coach was honored at the Oakland Coliseum by the Raiders organization this past February. Proceeds from the event went to charity as Madden was honored by several attendees.
Davis, who passed away on October 8, 2011, is being inducted alongside the coach that won him his first Lombardi Trophy. Since his passing, Davis has been immortalized as an NFL legend. His name is borne proudly on the torch dedicated to him at Allegiant Stadium. Davis was also featured on ESPN’s 30 for 30, aptly titled “Al Davis versus the NFL.” The documentary served to introduce an entire generation of young Raiders fans to him.
A well-deserved honor
According to Levi Edwards of the Raiders’ official website, Madden and Davis will be joining a few other Raiders already enshrined.
“The illustrious career and accomplishments of the Silver and Black’s owner/coach duo will have another Hall of Fame to recognize their contributions to the game of football. Davis and Madden will join 11 other former Raiders players and coaches that are enshrined in the California Sports Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will be held Sunday, June 26 at the Ontario Convention Center in Ontario, California.”
The owner-coach helped to usher in a winning era for the Raiders in the 1970s. A legacy that lasted well into the 1980s after Madden retired from coaching. Madden’s impact on football is undeniable. From his coaching influence to being a commentator. Additionally, he’s the namesake for the Madden gaming franchise. Both are already members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and this recent induction will help to further preserve their legacy for California-native fans.
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*Top Photo: Associated Press