The author of several books about leadership, Phillips (Martin Luther King, Jr. on Leadership,
etc.) offers an absorbing and practical examination of famed football coach Vince Lombardi's strategies for success and how they can be applied to the business world. A short biography of the coach gives a sense of the source of Lombardi's style—his father was a strict disciplinarian who advocated respect and duty above all else. As an athlete, Lombardi, who died in 1970, was accomplished at several sports but his first love was always football. He began his coaching career under Red Blaik at West Point, where he perfected his discipline. By the end of his life, he could take credit for nine successive playoff victories and two Super Bowl triumphs. What made Lombardi so successful? Phillips answers this question with detailed anecdotes from the coach's colleagues and players, along with chapter summaries highlighting "Lombardi Principles." Among these precepts are "Demonstrate your commitment to equality through your actions as well as your words," "Expect full cooperation from your superiors, and give full cooperation in return" and "Remember that all talent is founded on fundamentals and that fundamentals win it." Though seasoned executives may find some of the insights self-evident, less experienced managers should find them useful, especially if they're already familiar with Lombardi and his unique style. (Sept.)
