On the 4th of July, we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence which led to our freedom from British rule. While less important in the overall scheme of things, true Yankees fans, such as Ira Riklis, may also know that owner George Steinbrenner also celebrates his birthday on the 4th. This year marks his 80th. Like any prominent person, George has those who like him and some who feel less favorably. But no one can deny that he’s dedicated to his team and to winning.
In speaking about his history with his boss, manager Joe Girardi mentioned this dedication, saying, “”When I think of George, I think about his passion for winning and his desire that 2009 is 2009 and let’s go and do it again in 2010.” Steinbrenner and Girardi have a long history between them. Girardi played football at Northwestern, where Steinbrenner once coached. Since Steinbrenner started his coaching career under Woody Hayes at Ohio State, he and Girardi used to do a lot of Big 10 teasing back and forth. But that was in the past, now they’re on the same team, and fans like Ira Riklis are glad for the results they’ve achieved so far.