From Midfield Warrior to Life-Changing Mentor
The Legend They Called 'Mad Dog'
Some stories transcend the realm of sports biography to become profound meditations on leadership, human connection, and lasting impact. "Mad Dog: The Mickey Lewis Story" is one such narrative, arriving as a powerful testament to a man whose influence stretched far beyond the football pitch.
Authors Leo Ackerman and Alex Urwin have crafted a biography that resonates with authenticity and emotional resonance, drawing from an impressive collection of over 100 hours of interviews. As legendary sports broadcaster Jim Rosenthal notes, it's "a compelling story that demands to be told.".
The book traces Lewis's journey from his days as one of English football's most combative midfielders to his evolution into an inspirational coach. His playing career, spanning two decades and over 400 games, earned him the nickname "Mad Dog," a moniker that spoke to his tenacious style and unwavering commitment on the field. At Oxford United, he became more than just a player; he became a legend, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history.
But it's in the book's exploration of Lewis's coaching career that the narrative truly soars. His impact stretched across multiple institutions—from Oxford City to Oxford University, where he led the Blues to three consecutive Varsity victories. The authors, having played under Lewis at Oxford University themselves, bring an intimate understanding to these chapters, enriching them with personal insight while maintaining journalistic objectivity.
What sets this biography apart is its careful balance between sporting achievement and human connection. Through testimonials from figures like Ron Atkinson, Martin Jol, and Chris Wilder, we see Lewis not just as a footballer or coach, but as a mentor and friend. The book reveals how he became "a magnet—you wanted to play for him, you wanted to spend time with him", as one reviewer eloquently put it.
Ackerman and Urwin's diverse backgrounds—spanning documentary filmmaking and political campaigning—serve the narrative well. They approach Lewis's story with both cinematic flair and analytical depth, weaving together personal anecdotes with broader reflections on leadership and legacy. Their exploration of what Lewis's legacy teaches us about leadership, life, and football feels particularly poignant and timely.
The biography is meticulously researched yet maintains a compelling narrative flow. It's not just a chronological recounting of events but a thoughtful examination of how one individual can impact countless lives through dedication, authenticity, and genuine care for others. The authors capture the "riotous, adventurous, and moving" nature of Lewis's story while never losing sight of the deeper themes at play.
For football enthusiasts, the book offers rich tactical insights and behind-the-scenes glimpses into English football across different levels. For general readers, it presents universal lessons about perseverance, mentorship, and the ripple effects of positive influence. The authors have achieved something remarkable: a sports biography that transcends its genre to become a compelling study of human potential and connection.
"Mad Dog: The Mickey Lewis Story" is more than just a recounting of a career in football—it's a celebration of impact, both on and off the field. In an era where sports narratives often focus on statistics and achievements, this biography reminds us that the most meaningful legacy is the one we leave in the lives of others.
This is an essential read not just for football fans but for anyone interested in leadership, personal growth, and the profound impact one individual can have on their community. It's a fitting tribute to a man whose influence continues to resonate through the many lives he touched and whose story now stands as an inspiration for future generations.
ROYAL MAIL Tracked: 48
Published: February 2025
Price: £19.99
Hardcover: 272 pages
ISBN-10: 1801509360
ISBN-13: 978-1801509367
Dimensions: 240 x 160 (mm)
