MAN ON THE STREET: George Steinbrenner

On July 13, the sports world was awakened to the news of the death of New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner. Steinbrenner, who died from a heart attack, was 80 years old. The East County Observer caught up with some local Little League players, coaches and parents to find out there thoughts on Steinbrenner’s passing.

Parker Shanahan, 11

What are your thoughts on the passing of George Steinbrenner?

“My first thought as a Yankees fan was who is going to be the new Yankees owner.”

Jen Knapp

What are your thoughts on the passing of George Steinbrenner?

“We’re all Yankees fans except (my 10-year-old son) Connor, so it was a very sad day in our house. Just the impact he had on baseball and that love/hate relationship — that’s why people wanted to watch.” 

Colton Vincent, 10

What are your thoughts on the passing of George Steinbrenner?

“The Yankees must be very sad that he’s gone.”

Zach Rodgers, 10

What are your thoughts on the passing of George Steinbrenner?

“He just had this passion for winning and determination that helped a lot of people — not just in baseball but in other sports — to (want) to have the determination he had.”

Ken Shanahan

What are your thoughts on the passing of George Steinbrenner?

“We were season ticket holders in New York for 10 years. I think George Steinbrenner was a wonderful example of how someone can change over the course of their lifetime; and people should focus on his examples of philanthropy instead of his exploits on the field on in the owner’s box. 

Connor Knapp, 10

What are your thoughts on the passing of George Steinbrenner?

“I heard he was a nice guy, but I knew nothing about him.”

Ollie Kightlinger, 10

What are your thoughts on the passing of George Steinbrenner?

“They might not be winning very many World Series now because probably no one taught them everything (like George Steinbrenner).”