Honoring Mike Ditka: The Legend

Back in 2004, Ditka was urged to run for Illinois’ Senate seat against, you guessed it, Barack Obama.  You might recall that Jack Ryan, who had won the Illinois Primary,  had to withdraw from the election due to a sex scandal that alleged he forced ex-wife, actress Jeri Ryan into frequenting sex clubs with him.  (I couldn’t possibly make this stuff up!)  Alan Keyes was brought in when DaCoach rejected the Illinois  GOP’s ovations to fill the vacant spot on the ticket.  Obama cruised to victory and four short years later, the rest, as they say, is history.  Check out the article here.

Of course, Da Superfans had their unique take on this part of US History:

Ditka is most recognized today as a media personality, but he’s also dabbled on the big screen.

But it’s not all commercials and spots on NFL Primetime for Ditka.  He’s used his influence to help fellow retirees who’ve fallen on hard times, working closely with the Gridiron Greats program to generate funds and provide assistance to former players who can’t afford their medical bills or to even live above the poverty line.

Can you imagine another former coach for whom 2000 fans would dress up and run a charity race, like Bears fans did for the recent “Ditka Dash” 5K?

Say what you want about Dikta, but he is certainly a Chicago Bears legend and one of the all time greats.  Retiring his number is loooong overdue and it should be a terrific night of festivities to honor him.

Share your favorite Ditka memories in the Comments below.