All in the (Steelers) family

A nice email we got today from Mike Cibulas, North Canton, Ohio:

"Wanted to remember the passing of "The Chief", Art Rooney, 20 years ago today (8/25/88). I remember the day well--in fact, it was also the last time I spoke to my father, who suffered a stroke that day, lapsed into a coma, and died three weeks later. The last thing Dad and I ever discussed was the fact that Mr. Rooney had died; in retrospect, it was somehow appropriate, as the one bond that we maintained throughout was our love for the Steelers, and watching every game together (with the sound down on the TV, listening to Myron Cope and Jack Fleming, of course) ... I remember both men--Mr. Rooney, and my father, every day--today's just a little more worthy to note."

 

Something that non-sports fans don't always get about those of us who are fanatics for a particular sports team, be it the Steelers, Packers or even, yes, the Browns, is that love of a sports team can provide a tremendous platform for further bonding with friends, family and community. Its that shared experience that makes it fun, and is often forgotten, especially by the cynical sports media (and we plead guilt to that infraction). Thanks, Mike, for keeping us "on the level" as Mr. Rooney would say and for sharing with what has to be a very bittersweet memory ...