Vince Lombardi, born in 1913 in Brooklyn to Italian immigrant parents, became one of the most celebrated figures in NFL history by turning the Green Bay Packers into five-time champions through his relentless drive and rock-steady leadership.
A former Fordham University standout who learned early never to underestimate his opponents, Lombardi didn’t join the NFL until age 41—first as the New York Giants’ offensive coordinator—before taking over the Packers in 1959 and transforming them into a dynasty.
Fiercely committed to equality, he maintained a zero-tolerance policy toward discrimination throughout his career, and after his untimely death at 57 from colon cancer, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and honored as the namesake of the Super Bowl trophy.
Below are some of his most memorable quotes on leadership, teamwork, and winning.
Fun fact: Lombardi didn’t land his first NFL coaching job until he was 41—proof that it’s never too late to start chasing greatness.
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Most Famous Vince Lombardi Quotes
These are the lines that cemented Lombardi’s status as one of the world’s most quoted leaders. They appear everywhere from locker rooms to boardrooms—and still fire up generations today.
Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing.
– Attributed to Lombardi’s locker room talks and motivational speeches.
This is Lombardi’s most iconic line—often debated, but forever tied to his legacy. It’s a rallying cry for relentless effort, but Lombardi later clarified that striving to win, rather than the result itself, was what truly mattered.
The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.
– From a speech to his players.
A classic Lombardiism reminding us that achievement is built on effort—no shortcuts.
Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.
– Lombardi’s philosophy on personal and team growth.
He set high standards not because they’re always achievable, but because the pursuit itself transforms people and teams.
Vince Lombardi Quotes On Leadership
Lombardi’s leadership style was demanding yet deeply inspirational. He shaped men into champions—and his words still guide coaches, managers, and change-makers everywhere.
Leaders aren’t born, they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work.
– Lombardi’s perspective on leadership development.
He believed that anyone can become a great leader by committing to growth and discipline.
Leadership is based on a spiritual quality; the power to inspire, the power to inspire others to follow.
– Quoted in ‘Run to Daylight!’
Lombardi’s influence went beyond strategy—it was about inspiring belief and unity.
Confidence is contagious. So is lack of confidence.
– From team meetings and public interviews.
A leader’s mindset sets the tone for the whole group.
Vince Lombardi Quotes On Teamwork
For Lombardi, football was the ultimate team game—and he preached the importance of unity, sacrifice, and shared goals.
Individual commitment to a group effort—that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work
– From numerous team talks.
He drew a direct line between team spirit and world-changing results.
People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defenses, or the problems of modern society.
– Speech to the Green Bay Packers.
Teamwork isn’t just for sports—it’s vital everywhere.
Vince Lombardi Quotes On Winning & Success
Lombardi’s views on winning are more nuanced than many realize. It wasn’t just about the scoreboard, but about the relentless pursuit of your best.
Winning isn’t everything—but wanting to win is.
– Lombardi’s later clarification of his famous maxim.
Desire, effort, and attitude are what count most.
The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack in will.
– ‘What it Takes to be Number One’ speech.
Willpower, more than talent, sets winners apart.
If you’ll not settle for anything less than your best, you will be amazed at what you can accomplish in your lives.
– Addressing graduating students.
Lombardi encouraged everyone to demand the best from themselves.
Vince Lombardi Quotes On Hard Work & Perseverance
Lombardi knew the grind behind every triumph—and motivated others to embrace it.
It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.
– Regularly used in interviews and speeches.
Resilience is at the core of all achievement.
The harder you work, the harder it is to surrender.
– Team talk with the Packers.
Dedication creates inner strength when things get tough.
Fatigue makes cowards of us all.
– Locker room speeches, widely quoted.
Preparation and endurance are the antidotes to fear.
Vince Lombardi Quotes On Attitude & Character
Character, integrity, and attitude were non-negotiable to Lombardi. He demanded—and inspired—the best from everyone around him.
Build for your team a feeling of oneness, of dependence on one another, and of strength to be derived by unity.
– Team address.
A team’s spirit is forged in mutual trust and respect.
The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.
– Quoted in ‘Run to Daylight!’
Excellence is a habit, not a circumstance.
To achieve success, whatever the job we have, we must pay a price.
– ‘Run to Daylight!’
Lombardi’s advice applies everywhere—work, family, and life.
What Lombardi Teaches About Grit
Vince Lombardi’s quotes endure because they speak to more than just football—they’re about life, leadership, and the courage to push for your best. Whether you’re facing a big challenge, leading a team, or striving for personal growth, his words offer fuel for the journey.
