Shula Remains Busy In Retirement As Frequent Pitchman

Marketers Still Interested In  Having Shula Endorse Products

Pro Football HOFer Don Shula's "legend endures and he's in demand," as he is "busier than ever, endorsing products and making appearances at restaurants in the growing chain that bears his name," according to Sarah Talalay of the South Florida SUN-SENTINEL. Observers feel the "combination of Shula's football success and affable demeanor have made him attractive to corporations seeking a trustworthy pitchman."  Shula is a spokesperson for four companies, including NutriSystem, health insurance company Humana and West Palm Beach-based HearUSA. Humana CEO Mike Selzer: "We were looking for someone ... who could be trusted, someone with integrity, an icon if you will, in South Florida.'" Shula is a partner in Shula's Steak Houses, a franchising company expected to gross $70M in its 24 restaurants this year. The company, for which Shula is "not involved in the day-to-day operations," has expanded to include several new restaurant concepts and "is exploring opening in Hong Kong" (South Florida SUN-SENTINEL, 12/16).  Shula also made the latest Davie Brown Celebrity Index, ranking fourth among current and former coaches as a potential endorser. The top ten coaches are listed below (THE DAILY). 

RK	COACH	RK	COACH
1	Tommy Lasorda	6	Bill Parcells
2	John Madden	7	Phil Jackson
3	Mike Ditka	8	Pat Riley
4	Don Shula	9	Bobby Knight
5	Joe Torre	10	Dick Vermeil