99-year-old usher retires after 81 seasons with team
When it comes to the Pittsburgh Pirates, it’s seemingly always, “We’ll get ’em next year.”
Phil Coyne has decided that “next year” won’t include him.
Coyne has been an usher for the Buccos since 1936, and after 81 years, enough is enough.
The 99-year-old is hanging up his uniform and calling it a day just before he becomes a centenarian.
Pirates long-time usher Phil Coyne announces retirement.
Pirates to honor Phil on April 27, his 100th birthday!READ: https://t.co/MBKV3uH0Tx pic.twitter.com/OGfZePLn6v
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) April 6, 2018
But it’s not like Coyne hasn’t had a break — he missed some time while serving in World War II.
When the Pirates moved from Forbes Field to Three Rivers Stadium and then to PNC Park, there was Phil, in Sections 26 and 27 along the third base line.
He received a No. 99 jersey from the Pirates last summer, and the Pittsburgh City Council proclaimed Aug. 29, 2017 as “Phil Coyne Day.”
Team president Frank Coonelly lauded Coyne for serving fans with “with incredible grace and distinction” over the years.
“Legends never really retire. Having worked his first Pirates game at the age of 18 in 1936, Phil remains number one on our organizational seniority list and will always have a place on our team,” Coonelly said in a statement.
Back in 2016, Coyne was featured in a photo essay for ESPN by John H. Beale, and he talked about knowing when it was time to finish his incredible career.
“As long as your mind is straight, you’re all right, and that can go at any time,” he said. “I could have a fall tomorrow and get a good bump and that would be it. So you never know. You just have to wait until next April to see if your legs are all right and your mind is all right, and you sign up.”
The retired machinist also revealed he had a secret — a late-night snack to keep him going.
“Two Oreos and a glass of milk going to bed,” Coyne said. “That’s what I always tell them, but it’s luck.”
An accident this winter is forcing Coyne’s retirement.
“I’m done,” he said via The Incline. “I quit this year because my head — something’s wrong up there. My equilibrium is off, and I was scared of falling. I wouldn’t have done it anyhow. I’m too shaky. …
“I’m sad. I tried to make it to 100, but I just couldn’t make it. It’ll be sad, and I’ll try to make games and go over and see everybody and see my people when I can.”
Coyne should enjoy his time off. He’s earned it.
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