Larry Csonka
former Miami Dolphins Running Back

Larry Csonka was the Miami Dolphins' first round pick in the 1968 National Football League draft. Csonka and power running became synonymous in the NFL. He charged so tenaciously through defenses that his name became a household word and his nickname, Zonk, became a new American verb. From 1971-1973, he led the Dolphins to three Super Bowl appearances, earning All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors along the way. He and halfback Jim Kiick were affectionately known as "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," and were mainstays in the Dolphins' perfect 17-0-0 season in 1972. Csonka earned the MVP award of the Dolphins' Super Bowl VIII victory over the Minnesota Vikings by rushing 33 times for 145 yards and two touchdowns. In 1973, he was voted Super Athlete of the Year by the Professional Football Writers Association. After a contract dispute in 1974, Csonka, Kiick and teammate Paul Warfield signed with the World Football League. In 1976 Csonka returned to the NFL, this time signing with the New York Giants for three seasons from 1976-1978. He returned to the Dolphins in 1979 leading the team in rushing with 837 yards and was named MVP by Dolphins teammates. He ended his professional career in Miami and retired in January 1980. His career rushing record for the Dolphins of 6,736 yards still stands. Csonka's career rushing total of more than 8,000 yards places him among the Top 20 leading runners in NFL history. His importance to the game of football was exemplified when he was elected to the Professional Football Hall of Fame in 1987. His inclusion in that prestigious group came in only his second year of eligibility. Larry continues to work in the "public eye" as host and producer of an outdoor adventure program. He currently hosts and produces "NAPA's North to Alaska" which airs on Versus (formerly Outdoor Life Network) Saturdays at 12:30 EST. This program showcases Larry's experience as a fisherman and hunter and his enthusiasm for outdoor sports and conservation. Csonka also travels the country visiting various clubs and corporations as a Sports Humor/Motivational Speaker, operating within his own company known as Csonka Promotions, Inc. His speeches are laced with humor and dramatic personal experiences, and have been well received by some of the nation's top companies. Csonka currently resides in Anchorage, AK. He also maintains a farm in Lisbon, Ohio where he has constructed Csonka's Country Night Spot & Outdoor Entertainment Complex. In Florida, Larry maintains the Goodrich Seafood House in Oak Hill where guides depart daily with clients fishing the famous Mosquito Lagoon. His other hobbies include operating heavy machinery, fishing and hunting.

Web Site: LarryCsonka.com