The New York Times [reported](http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/29/sports/basketball/29auerbach.html?ex=1319774400&en=5a9ed5bdbc403098&ei=5090&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss) today that Red Auerbach, the man who created the Boston Celtics dynasty, died yesterday of a heart attack.

Every time I read about the death of someone I admired as a child or young man, I find myself repeating: “Man, *everyone’s* dying.” I suppose that it’s just a part of growing older, but I think it’s sad. I was never much of a sports fan… except for the Celtics.

Their hard-working, never-say-die attitude inspired me. As a child, I idolized Larry Bird, but, if I had been born in another decade, could have just as easily worshipped Bob Cousy or John Havlichek. Those giant men played the game the way I had to, smart, often against taller, more atheletic opponents, and they won through hustle and teamwork.

Red Auerback built a sports dynasty. I’m sad to see him go.