By Amanda Foust
Doug Crusan is best known for being a member of the 1972 Miami Dolphins team that finished the season undefeated and won the Super Bowl – the only team to ever accomplish that feat.
“The perfect season was, in a word, perfect,” he reflected.
But these days, the Fishers resident is using his football fame to make a difference off the field, including at Carmel High School and through his church, Carmel’s Entry.point.
“Since my retirement, this church has become my business, and my job is to help others find their way to it,” he said.
Born in Pennsylvania in 1946, Crusan grew up playing football. He moved to Indiana in 1964 to play for Indiana University prior to being drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1968. He went on to three Super Bowls and won two as a left tackle for the Dolphins.
Although Crusan’s legacy has led to many opportunities – including meeting President Barack Obama in 2013 – he is most eager to discuss his influence at the local level.
Upon his return to Indiana, Crusan lived in Carmel for several years before moving to Fishers 13 years ago to be near his children and grandchildren. He spends his time giving back and sharing what he has learned on and off the field by speaking to youth in the area, including the CHS football team.
“I speak of football, but through football, you can really share life stories, struggles, and successes that you go through,” he said.
Faith and Football
Doug Crusan will speak on “Faith and Football/Everyone Has a Story” at the 10:30 a.m. service on Nov. 22 at Entry.point. After the service, Crusan and John Isenbarger, church member and former IU and NFL football player, will sign autographs and participate in a Q&A. Both events are open to the public, and the lunch costs $10 per person or $25 per family. To reserve a space, email [email protected].
