It’s without question that the Minnesota Vikings will be dedicating 2018’s season to the late Tony Sparano, their offensive line coach who tragically and suddenly passed away late July. The team announced that the players would honor Sparano and his family by wearing his initials on the back of their helmet, and before Saturday afternoon’s preseason game in Minnesota, the Vikings hosted a classy and touching video tribute to honor Tony before kicking off against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Tony’s wife Jeannette, son Tony Sparano Jr, who also happens to be the Jaguars assistant offensive lines coach, and daughter Ryan were all present to be honorary captains for today’s game.
His son, Andrew, was also mentioned, though he is currently fulfilling duties as a lines coach for the Feather River Golden Eagles Junior College program. Just by Tony’s family alone, you can tell how great of a legacy he left behind.
The players on the field and those mentioned in the video all represent the coach’s incredible impact, which will continue to extend way beyond the football field, as well.
