Detroit Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp got the chance of a lifetime this offseason: flying with the Navy’s famous Blue Angels.
Fipp grew up in San Diego watching the Blue Angels perform at airshows, inspired by his father, who was a Navy pilot. He even earned his commercial pilot’s license as an adult, deepening his passion for aviation. When the Blue Angels heard about his connection to the Navy and love of flying, they invited him for a ride-along in an F/A-18 Super Hornet.
The Detroit Lions captured Fipp’s entire experience in a heartwarming video released on the Fourth of July. It shows Fipp suiting up, climbing into the fighter jet, and taking off for an unforgettable flight.
“I can’t even express in words how grateful I am for the opportunity to fly there and really just be around those people,” Fipp said. “It totally helped me understand my dad’s love for it.”
The video highlights not only Fipp’s joy but also a touching tribute to his father and his childhood dream.
Other Lions notes:
Several Lions players were featured in NFL.com’s list of top players by jersey number.
Former Lions and other pro athletes joined the Joique Bell Charity Summer Enrichment Program, mentoring 200 Detroit middle schoolers at Wayne State University with activities ranging from football to STEM and dance.
NFL.com has begun revealing its top 100 players for 2025, with one Lion included so far in the Nos. 91-100 range.
Former Lion Ndamukong Suh recently launched a YouTube series with The Athletic called “No Free Lunch,” releasing two new episodes over the past week.
Lions’ Special Teams Coach Dave Fipp Lives Out Childhood Dream with the Blue Angels
