Real Field of Dreams
Yank magic nothing new to contest winner
Incredible Yankees experiences are nothing new to this Field of Dreams contest winner.
David Falzone, 13, wrote in his essay on Yankees tradition how he was there in 2009 when Derek Jeter broke the team's all-time hit record. It was David's first time ever at Yankee Stadium.
“I remember that day as if it was yesterday,” wrote David (photo). “My eyes were open so wide they looked like giant saucers as I stood at the main gate of Yankee Stadium.”
In his winning essay, David wrote about how on that fateful day the Daily News interviewed his father and took a picture of his whole family. Now he keeps that picture next to his bed.
“I look at my favorite picture and reminisce about this awesome day,” David wrote.
The Staten Island native is looking to add another Yankees memory to his repertoire.
On Aug. 1, David, along with eight other winning young essayists, will run out onto the field and stand with the Bronx Bombers during the national anthem as part of the grand prize for The News' 2018 Field of Dreams essay contest.
In an exclusive interview with The News, David spoke on his favorite things about the home team.
“When I think of the Yankees, I think of winning with class, pinstripes and honor,” he said.
David's fervent fandom of the Yankees is something that he hopes stays with his family for generations to come.
“I am excited to one day carry on this tradition with my children . . . the best is surely yet to come,” wrote the superfan.
Another thing that David loves about the Yankees is the can-do attitude throughout the organization — something perhaps best exemplified in his favorite quote by retired star Alex Rodriguez: “Always follow your dreams. Don't let anyone tell you you can't be something.”