USMA IN THE NEWS

GEORGE STEINBRENNER has been called plenty of things over the years, but sentimental has not been at the top of the list. Yet Thursday, before the team's home opener against the White Sox -- with cadets from the United States Military Academy poised to unfurl a giant flag and sing the national anthem, and with fans singing his praises from the bleachers -- Steinbrenner was moved to tears on several occasions during a television interview. "It was just a buildup of emotions," Steinbrenner, the Yankees' principal owner, said yesterday as he arrived at Yankee Stadium.

"I was just proud of my team and so proud of those kids from West Point," Steinbrenner said. "As I walked by them, I thought to myself, 'Next year, they could be over in Iraq fighting the war.' It just got to me."

 Steinbrenner also intimated that he had been moved by the fans.

"I really thought the reaction by the fans yesterday was just great, and it really turned me on," Steinbrenner said. "I was just happy for New York, because it is a big day for New York. The fans were all excited because we have a good team and just thought it was great."