Pictures can capture moments in time, some remembered and others unseen. Steelers.com is sharing historical photos through ‘Picture Perfect’ to tell the story of the Pittsburgh Steelers over the years.
Today’s feature highlights the Steelers’ first preseason game in Ireland against the Chicago Bears at Croke Park. The team will play its first regular season game in Ireland on September 28 against the Minnesota Vikings.
“Today, America’s favorite sport begins anew by travelling to a country as beautiful as the sport itself,” began the Fox Sports broadcast of this unique event. Hosted by James Brown, Howie Long, and Ronnie Lott, with Pat Summerall and Matt Millen calling the game, they praised Ireland’s beauty and the joy of introducing American football to young fans.
Late Steelers Chairman Dan Rooney expressed his delight: “I couldn’t be happier that the Steelers will play the first National Football League game ever staged in Ireland.” His son, Art Rooney II, added, “My father wanted to play a game in Dublin for a long time.”
The trip was an adventure for players and fans alike. Former tight end Mark Bruener recalled family excursions during training camp: “It was all in the middle of training camp… You were with your family.”
SteelerNationUK member Gordon Dedman shared his excitement about meeting Ambassador Dan Rooney and other players: “The whole weekend was just an amazing adventure for Steelers fans across the Atlantic.”
A Waterford crystal trophy with a shamrock base was unveiled before the game. Coach Bill Cowher recounted how Patricia Rooney admired it: “Mrs. Rooney loves this piece of crystal… We’re winning this game, right coach?”
With more than 30,000 attendees and notable figures like Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern participating in events, it was a memorable occasion. The goalposts came from Scotland and the scoreboard from England.
Quarterback Kordell Stewart led with confidence: “When you have a game with only a short amount of time to play like one quarter and you score 10 points, you have to feel confident.” The Steelers won 30-17, securing both victory and trophy.
“We did win the game, and the crystal is still in the trophy case,” said Cowher. Art Rooney II reflected on a cherished photo of his parents with that trophy.
