The San Quentin Flag Football Team, the “All Maddens,” remembers the greatness of legendary Raiders owner Al Davis, who died Oct. 8.
Wide receiver Ray Walker – He was a legend, a pioneer, and an innovator. The game of football that we know today would not be the way that it is without Al Davis. He never conceded to what every one’s opinion was during meetings. He stayed true to his beliefs. He was a Raider true and true. Nothing but love for Al. God bless his family.
Running back Dwight Kennedy – He was an icon, a player, a coach, owner and commissioner. He had love for the game and for people as well. May his family stay strong, stay ambitious and continue to carry on his legacy.
Strong safety and Oakland native Mario Ellis – My fondest memories of Coach Davis was meeting him at the practice facility in 1980 through Rob Martin (former Raiders middle linebacker) who was my Godmothers boyfriend. He asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up. I told him I wanted to be the next Cliff Branch, a former wide receiver for the Raiders. Coach Davis told me to push forward to live out your dreams and push those aside that get in your way. That sums up how Al lived his life. He always went forward and pushed those out of his way that were blocking his path.
Quarterback Kevin Chattman – He coined the slogan “Commitment to Excellence” and called the Raiders’ {end zone seats} the Black Hole. As a 49er fan, I wish we had those slogans. He was committed to the team and I hated him when he left Oakland, but I realized how much I missed him once he left.
Linebacker Sean Simms – He was the first to hire a black coach. He changed the game for minorities. He was someone who believed in giving players second chances.
Cornerback Trenton Capell – He changed the game. He revolutionized the way an owner interacted with the players. He was the first owner-coach. He gave a lot of his players jobs and he looked after his players. He said once someone was a Raider, he was a Raider for life.
Defensive Coach Orlando Harris – He always took a chance on minorities and players that were undesired or made mistakes in there careers; he always gave them a second chance. That is what All-Madden does: Give you a second chance.
He allowed Jim Plunkett to be quarterback. He allowed a different nationality to a be a quarterback and he whent on to win a Super Bowl.
Offensive Coach Shaheed. He didn’t care about race or color as long as he can come in and help him win. Just like his slogan: “Just win, baby.”
Former quarterback Chrisfino Leal – Al Davis was more than just a great football mind; he was a champion of social equality. His impact on the game is legendary, and despite some losing seasons as of late, no one can deny the fact that the Raiders have earned their place among the greatest sports franchises.
