John Mara, President and CEO of the  New York Giants has indeed upheld his family legacy! One can definitely agree that the Mara family’s name has been intricately synonymous with New York football since 1925. And, with the passing of his father, Wellington back in 2005, John Mara has taken charge of the reigns, blending his legacy with his own visions.

And, throughout his tenure, John has time and again referenced the teachings of his parents, Wellington and Ann Mara. He believes in a methodical approach and aims for perennial competitiveness, as he remarks, “You can’t win every year. But you can contend every year.” Making decisions for the long term is what he has learned from his parents, and it is indeed translating to success.

Who Were Wellington and Ann Mara?

Wellington Mara, and his wife Ann Mara, who is also referred to as “The First Lady of Football,” have indeed played an elemental role in solidifying the Giants’ history and the Mara family’s legacy in the  NFL. John Mara’s dad, Wellington Mara, was born into the family that laid the foundation of Giants way back in 1925.

And his wife, Ann, whom he met in 1952 at a Manhattan church, has been a constant guide to building a legacy together. Ann’s support for the Giants drew a lot of admiration after he sternly confronted Terry Bradshaw, who doubted the Giants’ during their 2011 NFC Championship win. Giants quarterback Eli Manning also took to remark, “Her loyalty to this team and her fierceness was something everyone knew.”

After Wellington’s death in 2005, his wife, Ann, and their children continued to maintain 50% of Giants’ ownership. Not only this, they are deeply involved in philanthropy, with various projects on hand like the Inner City Scholarship Fund and Ronald McDonald House.

Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell took to describing Ann as a “tower of strength, dignity, and inspiration.” She breathed her last in 2015, succumbing to injuries due to a tragic fall.

How Did John Mara Take the Reins of the Giants?

Officially joining the Giants in 1991, he picked up the work ethic from his father, Wellington. After his dad’s death in 2005, John has taken the primary charge, which is evocative of his father’s working principles.

He remarked, “My father set pretty high standards here for the way he ran this team and the way he lived his life… Those are pretty tough standards to live up to, but they’re worthwhile goals.” He further continues, “Probably the most important lesson I ever learned from him is to try to treat other people the way you would want to be treated.”

John has the understanding that he does not intend to measure Giants’ success in wins and losses, but also stays true to its long-standing culture. He strives to maintain stability and pitch for long-term success, upholding his father’s aspirations.