Irish eyes were smiling at Heinz Field on Monday night, and no St. Patrick's Day didn't come early to Pittsburgh.
The home of the black and gold was intertwined with green for the night at the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh 'A Summer Soiree,' an event late Steelers Chairman Dan Rooney not only created, but also poured his heart into. The event, normally called the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, normally takes place on St. Patrick's Day, but was canceled in 2020 and rescheduled for 2021 because of the pandemic and honored Steelers Hall of Fame Coach Bill Cowher and Manchester Bidwell's Bill Strickland.
"It's a twice postponed event, so thank God we were able to get it in this year," said Steelers President Art Rooney II. "We didn't want to push it off a whole other year. Thank God Bill Cowher and Bill Strickland were willing and able to change their schedule around multiple times. It's great to see so many people here tonight.
"My father and Tony O'Reilly started the Ireland Fund way back in the 70s. It's great that we still have people willing to support it. It's always a fun event."
The luck of the Irish was bestowed upon Cowher, the Steelers newly elected Hall of Fame coach, who was honored with the first-ever Daniel M. Rooney Ambassador Award. The award is given to an individual who reflects Rooney's leadership, love of Pittsburgh and contribution to the community.
Take a look at photos from the Ireland Fund Pittsburgh Gala honoring Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation William Strickland, Jr.
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Tuesday June 22, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Head Coach Bill Cowher and Founder & Executive Chairman of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, William Strickland, Jr. were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, Monday June 21, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Cowher, who was elected as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2020 and will be enshrined this August, is a Pittsburgher through and through. Born and raised in Crafton, just on the edge of the Pittsburgh city limits, his love of his hometown is something that is in his heart always. He was the individual Rooney felt could best lead the Steelers after the legendary Chuck Noll retired, and he was spot on.
"It means a lot to receive this because of what Dan Rooney represented, what he stood for as a North Sider," said Cowher, who was previously honored at the event in 1998. "He never lost sight of where he came from. If Dan Rooney never lost sight of where he came from, how could any of us? He went back to the same house he grew up in.
"He was a visionary, a leader of men. He was a wise man. A lot of wisdom in that man. He had a great perspective in life. Family was first, faith and football. He had a great impact on my life as a coach, a greater impact on my life as a person. He was a guy that instilled core values with that football team that became a way of life for myself and the family I raised in Pittsburgh. To receive the first award in his name, in his honor, it's pretty special."
The event was preceded by a golf outing during the day, but when it came to heading to Heinz Field, it was all about the Irish and football.
Irish music and dancing was plentiful with the Donnie Irish Band and the Burke Conroy School of Irish Dance performing. Richard Manning, an Allegheny County Sheriff and lead singer of the Donnie Irish Band, sang the Irish and American National Anthem.
In addition to honoring Cowher, Strickland, the CEO of the non-profit Manchester Bidwell Corporation, received the first-ever Patricia R. Rooney Community Impact Award, a newly created award given to a leader who has produced successful organizational initiatives in response to a significant contemporary problem. Strickland founded the Manchester Craftsmen's Guild in 1968 to bring arts education and mentorship to inner city youth in his neighborhood. The organization still serves public school students and has grown into branches to support the Manchester community on Pittsburgh's North Side.
"He always wanted to work with diverse communities, underprivileged communities, in ways that helped them prepare for professional opportunities," said Jim Rooney. "That is where my mom focused at Robert Morris. He has also become a consultant for projects all over the country, exporting his model all over the place. My mom loved Pittsburgh, but the Ireland Fund was something she helped keep going and took the ideas of generosity she learned here in Pittsburgh to a broader world."
Dan Rooney, along with Pittsburgh businessman Anthony J.F. O'Reilly, created The Ireland Fund in 1976 with the trinity of goals being peace, culture and charity. The organization later merged with the American Irish Foundation, to create the American Ireland Funds, the leading charitable organization benefiting Ireland, which has now become known as The Ireland Funds.
Rooney was a driving force in the success the organization had seen over the years, helping with The Ireland Funds' mission of promoting programs of peace and reconciliation, arts and culture, education and community development throughout Ireland. During Rooney's time as United States Ambassador to Ireland he visited every county in Ireland, helping to bring peace between the North and the South, something he took great pride in.
"People recognize that Ireland is better as far as bringing peace," Dan Rooney said prior to his passing. And that is what he wanted, what he dreamt about, for the country his family immigrated from. He wanted peace.
The organization is one that isn't just active in Pittsburgh but has nationwide and international support. From New York to San Francisco, and as far reaching as Australia and Japan, as it has reached a total of 12 countries. All a result of Rooney's passion for helping Ireland.
