Jim mandich biography

James Michael Mandich (July 30, – April 26, ), also known as "Mad Dog", was an American professional football player who was a tight end in the National Football League (NFL).

Jim Mandich was a paradox. He built a thriving construction business in Miami without knowing anything about construction. He became Bo Schembechler's first Wolverine team captain in even though he was considered a little on the wild side. He was a great tight end at Michigan and in the NFL despite the fact he did not have great speed or great height, even for his era.

So it is apropos that on the 30th anniversary of Bob Ufer's passing -- another one-of-a-kind in the field of broadcasting -- Mandich is posthumously being honored by the Letterwinners M Club with the Bob Ufer Award. Mandich passed away this past April after a long bout with bile duct cancer at the age of The award is presented each year to an M Club member in recognition for his or her outstanding service to the University of Michigan Athletic Department.

Mandich holds the Michigan record for receiving yards by a tight end in a season with He is second all-time in career receptions and receiving yards among Michigan tight ends and he is a member of the Michigan Hall of Honor and College Football Hall of Fame. It's the way he gave of himself to his family, friends, teammates and the surrounding communities.

It was his outlook on life and how to live it.

A unanimous First Team All-America and team captain in , Mandich was named the team's Most Valuable Player while leading the Wolverines to a Big Ten Conference Co-Championship .

What was special is how he treated people. He was straightforward, funny, loving, but more importantly, giving. The Michigan family never had to ask Mandich twice for help. He responded immediately.