Art Rooney

Date of Birth: January 27, 1901

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: August 25, 1988

Biography

Arthur Joseph “Art” Rooney Sr. was an influential American businessman best known as the founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, a professional American football team in the National Football League (NFL). Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Rooney was a charismatic and determined man who used his business acumen and passion for sports to build one of the most storied franchises in NFL history. Rooney founded the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1933, originally named the Pittsburgh Pirates, and remained actively involved in the team until his death. His leadership and innovative approach to team management earned him a lasting legacy in the sports world. Under his ownership, the Steelers won four Super Bowls in the 1970s, establishing a dynasty that cemented their place in NFL history. In addition to his contributions to football, Rooney was also known for his philanthropy and deep ties to the Pittsburgh community. He was a beloved figure both on and off the field, known for his humility, generosity, and dedication to his family and team.

5 Interesting Facts about Art Rooney

1. Art Rooney won the equivalent of $3,000,000 in today’s money in a single day at the racetrack, which he used to help fund the Pittsburgh Steelers.

2. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964 as a charter member.

3. The Pittsburgh Steelers were originally named the Pittsburgh Pirates, after the city’s baseball team, before being renamed in 1940.

4. Rooney played a significant role in the merger between the NFL and the AFL in the 1960s.

5. He was also an accomplished amateur boxer, winning the AAU welterweight title in 1918.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Art Rooney

1. “The biggest thrill wasn’t in winning on Sunday but in meeting the payroll on Monday.”

2. “Sports are what we do. It’s what we are.”

3. “Every team in the NFL wants to win, but our goal is to be the best.”

4. “Winning isn’t everything, but wanting to win is.”

5. “I don’t know anything about luck. I’ve never banked on it, and I’m afraid of people who do. Luck to me is something else: Hard work – and realizing what is opportunity and what isn’t.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Art Rooney’s net worth was estimated to be around $200 million, primarily derived from his ownership of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Children

Art Rooney Sr. had five children: Arthur Rooney Jr., Dan Rooney, Kathleen Rooney, Patricia Rooney, and John Rooney. His son Dan Rooney succeeded him as the principal owner and chairman of the Pittsburgh Steelers and continued the family’s legacy in professional football.