Why is the Super Bowl called the Vince Lombardi Trophy?

The Vince Lombardi Trophy is the coveted prize awarded to the winning team of the Super Bowl, the annual championship game of the National Football League (NFL). But why is this iconic trophy named after the legendary coach, Vince Lombardi?

Background on Vince Lombardi

Vince Lombardi was a head coach in the NFL for nine seasons, during which he led the Green Bay Packers to five NFL championships and two Super Bowl victories - an astonishing achievement given there are 12 teams who have never won a Super Bowl. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest coaches in the history of American football, known for his motivational speeches, strict discipline, and innovative strategies.

Lombardi's Legacy

Lombardi's impact on the game of football was significant. He is credited with popularizing the use of the power sweep, a play that involved pulling guards and a fullback leading the way for a running back. This play was instrumental in the success of the Green Bay Packers during Lombardi's tenure as head coach. He also emphasized the importance of a strong running game and a tough defense, which became hallmarks of his teams.

In addition to his on-field successes, Lombardi was also known for his leadership and motivational skills. He was a master at getting the most out of his players, and his speeches and quotes are still widely cited today. One of his most famous quotes is, "Winning isn't everything, it's the only thing."

The Vince Lombardi Trophy

The Vince Lombardi Trophy was first awarded in 1967, the year after Lombardi's death. The NFL decided to name the trophy after Lombardi to honor his contributions to the game and his legacy as one of the greatest coaches of all time. The trophy is made of sterling silver and stands 22 inches tall, and it is the most important individual award in American football.

The trophy is presented to the winning team at the end of the Super Bowl, the annual championship game of the NFL. The winning team also receives a replica of the trophy, which they can keep. The original Vince Lombardi Trophy remains in the possession of the NFL, and it is displayed at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

What was the NFL trophy called before Lombardi?

The National Football League (NFL) awarded the Ed Thorp Memorial Trophy to the champions of the league from 1934 until 1967. The trophy was named in honor of Ed Thorp, a well-known referee, authority on rules, sports equipment merchant, and acquaintance of many of the NFL's early team owners.

The NFL trophy was then called the "World Professional Football Championship Trophy" and was first awarded in 1967, the year after Vince Lombardi's death, and was then renamed in his honor to recognize his contributions to the game of football and his legacy as one of the greatest coaches of all time. Prior to 1967, the NFL did not have a single trophy that was awarded to the winner of the championship game, instead each year the winning team would keep the ball used in the game.

Conclusion

The Vince Lombardi Trophy is named after the legendary coach, Vince Lombardi, in recognition of his contributions to the game of football and his legacy as one of the greatest coaches of all time. His impact on the game was significant and the trophy is a fitting tribute to his legacy. The trophy is presented to the winning team of the Super Bowl, the annual championship game of the NFL, and is the most important individual award in American football. The original trophy is on display at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.