Full Description
Dive into the thrilling life of Raymond Chester, the Oakland Raiders legend.
While America was convulsed following the assassination of Dr Martin Luther King, Chester was central to the move of Black American football into the mainstream. From his college glory at Morgan State to his iconic moments on the NFL field, Chester's story is one of resilience and triumph which resonates far beyond the world of sport.
This inspiring account of an American sporting hero and his extraordinary impact on society is entrusted to his close friend, author and rugby fan Jon Gower, revealed through extensive interviews taking place from Wales to the US. Raider is the story of a true team player, one musician in a band of brothers who played their own wild tune on the football field, in a life filled with exceptional athleticism, brotherhood, friendship and love.
Contents
Foreword: A Band of Brothers, by Raymond Chester
Part one - - 1968
1. Morgan State vs Grambling
2. The big day approaches
3. From half-time to victory
Interlude: Balance
Part Two - - 1948-68
4. High School Days
5. Morgan State
6. Family Life
Interlude: Speed
Part Three - NFL Career - 1968-1980
7. On Being a Raider
8. Playing for the Colts (or five years' hard labour.)
9. Interlude: Injuries
Part four: Superbowl Champion, 1980
10. Winning the Championship
Part five - Life After the NFL
11. The Invaders and the USFL
12. A Small White Ball and a Fishing Rod
Interlude: Matters of faith
Conclusion: Looking back
Appendix A: A timeline of Raymond Chester's career
Appendix B: A brief introduction to American football
Appendix C: The Raiders: Raymond's recollections of his fellow players
Bibliography
