MINNEAPOLIS - As the winningest coach of the Minnesota Vikings, all roads for Bud Grant lead back to the team he loves. And now at least one street will too, as the city of Minneapolis dedicated Bud Grant Way by the new Vikings stadium on Monday.
"After listening to all these people, I'm going to come back and be coach again," said Grant, at a ceremony before the street sign was unveiled. "I didn't realize how great I was."
There were many who spoke of Grant's success as a coach and his legacy with the team, including former players, family members, and at least one close, personal friend.
"When this guy came on, he made the Vikings what they are today," said longtime Star Tribune sports columnist Sid Hartman.
"The person who has given us the most advice about football, about life," said Vikings owner Zygi Wilf. "(He's) not just a great athlete, but a great man and a great advisor. It was a pleasure and honor to have Bud Grant be there."
"Bud Grant Way is a one-way street," joked former Vikings player Bob Lurtsema, "And we all know as players it's Bud's way or the highway."
The street is actually a two way on the south end of downtown, a short road connecting 6th and 7th streets that in the Metrodome days was called Carew Drive. Now that name is used near Target Field, replaced with another Minnesota sports legend who says he's grateful.
"It's a unique honor," Grant said. "And I'm humbled."
Humbled and hopeful. Grant says he's confident the Vikings will still win a Super Bowl.
