By Tom Rowe

Contributing Writer

George Steinbrenner, the late owner of the New York Yankees, dubbed right fielder Paul O’Neill “The Warrior” because of his passion and love for the game. Although surrounded by future Hall of Famers like Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and perhaps even a couple others, it was O’Neill who was the heart and soul of the team that captured four World Series titles in five years as the baseball dynasty of the 1990s.

Much like O’Neill, Peter Burton was the backbone of the championship Norwich football and basketball teams that won statewide acclaim a few years before the Yankees began their streak. Over the course of three seasons, Burton earned nine varsity letters, three each in football, basketball and baseball, thus earning him a spot in the Norwich High School Sports Hall of Fame.

“He was a great leader both on and off the playing field or court,” remembered former NHS grid coach John Pluta. “He hated to lose, and pushed himself every minute. He really was a true warrior.”

Although he was a STAC all-star three straight years in baseball at a variety of positions, Burton is best remembered as the fearless tight end on the gridiron and the relentless power forward on the hardwoods. While Burton solidified the Purple offensive line, Norwich compiled an impressive 27-4-1 (.871) log, and as that inside anchor on the Tornado cage unit, the locals posted a record of 72-7 (.911).