A Clearwater man with a passion for our National Anthem is about to reach another milestone in his already incredible career.
- Tom Cooney is deaf; performs National Anthem in sign language
- Cooney has signed National Anthem at more than 1,000 pro sports games
- Cooney signed at Devil Rays' inaugural home opener in 1998
Tom Cooney can’t hear the words, but his interpretation of the Star Spangled Banner will touch your heart.
Cooney is deaf, but always keeps his interpreter, Camie Gallo, close by. He’s never let his disability define him, and after being turned away from joining the military, Cooney found another way to serve his country.
"When I finally stood there and signed my first game at Yankee Stadium, it was thrilling to have accomplished that, but who knew 50 years later, here I would be signing it still," Cooney said.
Cooney has signed the National Anthem at more than 1,000 professional sports games, including the Super Bowl. Tom signed the anthem at the inaugural Tampa Bay Devil Rays game in 1998, and will be back on the turf at Tropicana Field for the 20th anniversary game.
"It's the family connection," Cooney said. "Baseball, the American game that keeps families together, it's as apple pie as you and I."
"I love the Rays, even though I'm a Yankee fan at heart," he continued. "I love the Rays since I live in Florida and want to thank them for this opportunity to be back 20 years later."
Cooney's love of the game also extends to memorabilia. He has a baseball with the signatures of every living United States President except Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump.
He hopes they’ll sign it and would like to one day see the ball on display at the Smithsonian.