Outskirts Press, INC.

Legends Featured In Hub Heroes

Featured in this book are chapters focusing on Bob Cousy, Larry Bird, Johnny Most, Rocky Marciano,Carl Yastrzemski, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Johnny Sain, Jack Chesbro, and Mickey Mantle. For anyone who writes biographically about these heroes, it’s vital to provide some little-known, surprising facts to give the reader a better idea of what they were really like and give a fuller picture of their lives. I hope I have succeeded in that regard. This book is a collection of no-holds-barred profiles and commentary drawn mostly from my interviews—many one-on-one—with legendary athletes, as well as one iconic broadcaster. I have added interesting facts gleaned from historical research to bring these heroes into sharper focus. In summary, this book is a combination of memoir, biography, and sports history. —from the Introduction to Hub Heroes

Bob Cousy was known for his extraordinary focus as a player. "People from time to time thought I was aloof, but when I got to the floor I wasn't going to acknowledge anyone, including my wife unless her skirt was on fire,'' he said. "Goddammit, focusing and concentration is so important. We talk about the Celtics taking their wives and kids to the finals. None of you would take your wife and kids to the office if you've got something meaningful to be done...This is what it's come to. I regret I didn't spend more time with my kids. Your career is the whole thing and unfortunately you divorce yourself from more important things as we look at it now. But that also is what makes you successful."