Who was the first African-American coach to win a Super Bowl?

• A. Tony Dungy
• B. Mike Tomlin
• C. Denis Green
• D. Lovie Smith

Answer: (A)

Tony Dungy made history by becoming the first African-American head coach to win a Super Bowl when he led the Indianapolis Colts to victory in Super Bowl XLI on February 4, 2007. His achievement marked a significant milestone not only in sports history but also in the broader context of racial progress within the NFL, which had predominantly white head coaches until that point. Dungy’s coaching philosophy and leadership style earned him respect throughout the league and helped pave the way for other minority coaches to take on head coaching roles.

The other coaches mentioned have had commendable careers but did not break this particular barrier in the same way that Dungy did. Mike Tomlin, for example, became a successful coach in his own right, leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to a Super Bowl win, but that was after Dungy's groundbreaking victory. Similarly, Dennis Green and Lovie Smith are both notable figures in their own right but did not achieve this milestone first. Tony Dungy's win serves as an inspiring example of leadership and excellence in the face of challenges.