Larry Csonka

Larry Csonka Speaker Biography

A man with a powerful story, one that you will remember forever…. 

Even from the beginning it seemed destined that football would become Larry Csonka's life. Born on December 25, 1946 in Stow, Ohio a husky 9 pound 13 ounce Christmas gift to his parents and a future generation of football fans. By age 16, he already stood 6'3" and weighed 237 pounds.

Larry Csonka and power running became synonymous in the NFL of the 1970's.  As a player with the powerhouse Miami Dolphins he charged so tenaciously through defenses that his name became a household word and his nickname, ZONK, became a new American verb.  From 1971-1973, he led the Dolphins to three Super Bowl appearances earning All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors along the way.  He and halfback Jim Kiick were affectionately known as "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” and were key players in the Dolphins’ perfect 17-0-0 season in 1972.  Csonka earned the MVP award of the Dolphins’ Super Bowl VIII victory over the Minnesota Vikings by rushing 33 times for 145 yards and two touchdowns.  In 1973, he was voted Super Athlete of the Year by the Professional Football Writers Association.  Csonka’s importance to the game of football was exemplified when he was elected to the Professional Football Hall of Fame in 1987. 

Larry has continued to work in the “public eye” through national commercial ads, numerous celebrity guest appearances and host of the original popular competition series, American Gladiators.   Most recently, he and longtime partner, Audrey Bradshaw, hosted and produced the outdoor adventure / travelogue series, “North to Alaska,” a top-rated, nationally televised program that aired on the NBC Sports Network.  For 16 years, this popular series showcased adventures in the Last Frontier, its people, culture, wildlife, rich history and Larry’s enthusiasm for outdoor sports and conservation. 

On YouTube you’ll find The ZONK! Channel with original programming from his “North to Alaska” series and his NFL mini-documentary,  “The Path to Perfection.”

Larry also stays busy traveling the country visiting various clubs and corporations as a Sports Humor/Motivational Speaker, operating within his own company, Csonka Promotions, Inc.  Larry Csonka has a tremendous story to tell and backs it up with a warm sincere approach that will have listeners on the edge of their seats.  Larry will speak about the game, the players, coaching and starring moments of a great career.  His audiences delight in his humor and leave feeling that they have always known him. 

Larry Csonka is more than a retired football player…he is a legend.  He will leave you and your organization with a renewed confidence to strive for perfection in any endeavor.    

Csonka is an Alaska resident. After residing several years in Anchorage, he and longtime partner, Audrey Bradshaw, are new residents of Wasilla. They also maintain a home in Florida and a farm in Ohio.  They are happily owned by their yellow lab, Lace.

To book Larry Csonka call Executive Speakers Bureau at 901-754-9404.