Meaning: This quote by Frank Gifford, the American football player and sports commentator, provides insight into his relationship with Wellington Mara, the longtime owner of the New York Giants. The quote reflects the deep bond between the two men and the profound impact Mara had on Gifford's life, both on and off the football field.

Frank Gifford's career as a professional football player spanned from the 1950s to the 1960s, during which time he played for the New York Giants. His tenure with the Giants coincided with Wellington Mara's ownership of the team, and it is clear from the quote that their relationship went beyond the typical dynamic between a team owner and a player. Gifford's use of the term "almost like my father" suggests a level of paternal guidance and support that extended beyond the realm of football.

It is important to note that Wellington Mara was not just any team owner; he was a revered figure in the world of professional football. His family had been involved with the Giants since the team's inception in the 1920s, and he himself had taken over the ownership of the franchise in 1959. Mara was known for his dedication to the team and the sport, as well as for his integrity and commitment to the well-being of the players.

Given the historical context of Mara's ownership and the era in which Gifford played, it is likely that their relationship was shaped by the values and norms of the time. In the mid-20th century, the dynamics between players and team owners were often more personal and intimate than they are in today's professional sports landscape. Players often looked to team owners for guidance and support, both on and off the field, and it was not uncommon for strong bonds to develop between them.

In the case of Gifford and Mara, it is evident that their relationship transcended the professional realm and took on a more familial quality. Gifford's reference to Mara as "almost like my father" speaks to the deep emotional connection and the level of trust and respect that existed between them. It suggests that Mara played a significant role in Gifford's life, providing mentorship, guidance, and perhaps even a sense of paternal care that went beyond the typical responsibilities of a team owner.

The quote also sheds light on the impact that Mara had on Gifford's development as a person, not just as a football player. It suggests that Mara's influence extended to shaping Gifford's character, values, and outlook on life. This speaks to the profound role that mentors and father figures can play in the lives of young athletes, especially in the formative years of their careers.

Overall, Frank Gifford's quote about Wellington Mara offers a glimpse into the deep and meaningful relationship that existed between the two men. It speaks to the profound impact that Mara had on Gifford's life, both as a player and as a person, and highlights the importance of mentorship and guidance in the world of professional sports. Gifford's words are a testament to the enduring legacy of Wellington Mara and the significant role he played in the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him.