Allie Sherman, American football player and coach (d. 2015)

Alex "Allie" Sherman (February 10, 1923 – January 3, 2015) was a dynamic American figure whose career spanned multiple facets of professional sports, from a versatile player to a groundbreaking coach and an innovative executive. Before leaving an indelible mark on the coaching landscape, Sherman distinguished himself as an American football player. He participated in 51 games across six seasons in the National Football League (NFL), demonstrating remarkable versatility by playing both as a quarterback and a defensive back—a testament to the "iron man" era of football where players often excelled on both offense and defense. His playing career included stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Rams, and the New York Giants. Post-playing, he transitioned to coaching, leading the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Canadian Football League (CFL) before taking the helm of the NFL's New York Giants. His remarkable journey continued into executive roles, where he became a prominent cable television and sports marketing executive, as well as a recognized media personality.

Alex Sherman's Enduring Legacy as New York Giants Head Coach

Sherman’s most celebrated coaching tenure was with the NFL's New York Giants, where he served as head coach from 1961 until the 1969 preseason. This period is particularly remembered for the Giants' dominant run in the early 1960s. Under his leadership, the Giants secured three consecutive Eastern Conference titles from 1961 to 1963, a remarkable achievement that saw the team contend for the NFL Championship each year. These formidable Giants teams featured legendary players such as quarterback Y.A. Tittle, running back Frank Gifford, linebacker Sam Huff, and defensive tackle Rosey Grier, creating a powerhouse lineup that captivated New York fans. Sherman's coaching prowess earned him two prestigious NFL Coach of the Year Awards in back-to-back seasons, 1961 and 1962, marking the first time such an honor was bestowed upon the same individual in consecutive years. He also coached in three NFL Pro Bowls, further cementing his reputation as one of the era's top strategists. Beyond the field, Sherman revolutionized the role of an NFL head coach by becoming the league's first true "media" coach. He pioneered producing and hosting his own shows on both television and radio, offering fans unprecedented access and insight. This innovative approach also led him to become a frequent and respected on-air football analyst, setting a precedent for future coaches to engage directly with the media and their fan bases.

A Visionary Beyond the Sidelines: Sherman's Impact in Media and Business

Following his distinguished coaching career, Allie Sherman embarked on an equally impactful journey in the corporate world, notably at Warner Communications (now part of WarnerMedia). Here, he emerged as a true pioneer, playing a pivotal role in the development of the first dedicated cable television sports networks. His forward-thinking vision extended to pioneering interactive and pay-per-view television and events, laying foundational groundwork for what would become staples of modern media consumption. During this time, he also oversaw and masterfully marketed the iconic New York Cosmos soccer team during the North American Soccer League (NASL) boom, capitalizing on the star power of Pelé and other international legends to popularize soccer in America. One of his significant achievements was producing for ABC and worldwide syndication Pelé's historic farewell game event, an elaborate spectacle that also featured global personalities like Muhammad Ali and other celebrities, showcasing his knack for creating high-impact global entertainment. Later in his career, New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani recognized Sherman's unique blend of leadership and business acumen. Giuliani appointed Sherman as president of the struggling New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation (OTB). Demonstrating his profound ability to turn around failing enterprises, Sherman revitalized the OTB, making it profitable for the first time within just two years and successfully transforming its previously tawdry public image into a respectable civic institution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Allie Sherman

What was Allie Sherman's primary impact as a New York Giants coach?
Allie Sherman is best known for leading the New York Giants to three consecutive Eastern Conference titles from 1961 to 1963 and winning two NFL Coach of the Year Awards in 1961 and 1962, a historic back-to-back achievement. He transformed the Giants into a perennial championship contender.
How did Allie Sherman pioneer sports media?
Sherman was the NFL's first "media" head coach. He produced and hosted his own television and radio shows, providing fans with unprecedented access to coaching insights. He also became a frequent on-air football analyst, establishing a model for how sports figures could engage directly with the public through media.
What were some of Allie Sherman's achievements in cable television and sports marketing?
At Warner Communications, Sherman was instrumental in developing the first cable television sports networks. He pioneered interactive and pay-per-view events and oversaw the marketing of the New York Cosmos soccer team. He also produced Pelé's globally syndicated farewell game, demonstrating his innovative approach to sports entertainment and media.
How did Allie Sherman contribute to the New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation (OTB)?
Appointed by Mayor Giuliani, Allie Sherman took over the failing New York City OTB and, through strategic leadership, made it profitable for the first time within two years. He also significantly improved its public image, transforming it into a more respected and efficient civic enterprise.