Mike Ditka, the legendary football player and coach, has passed away at the age of 86. His family announced his death on Friday (October 9). Ditka, a Hall of Famer, was a key figure in the history of the Chicago Bears, both as a player and a coach. He led the Bears to victory in Super Bowl 20 and was the first tight end to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Ok, I'll share my Mike Ditka story.

In the aftermath of his firing from the Chicago Bears, I was on a return trip from Montego Bay to New York, with a change of plane in Miami. Boarding to the NY bound plane was via a gate right next to one serving a Chicago bound flight.

While approaching my gate area I spotted none other than the great Mike Ditka standing in the area of the Chicago bound flight. Being me, I made my way over to him and struck up a conversation. I learned that he was returning from a 'well earned' vacation in Cancun, so we exchanged stories about our trips.

After a good half hour or so of good conversation, boarding for my flight was announced so I initiated a handshake to accompany my goodbye, "Nice talking to you Coach."

You can just imagine the expression that took over his face. He had no idea I knew who he was all through our interaction.