John York

Denise and John York bring long and distinguished careers in sports and business to their roles as Co-Chairs of the San Francisco 49ers, where they combine their passion for building a championship team with their commitment to being the best possible business partners and community citizens.

Since Denise's father, Edward J. DeBartolo Sr., purchased the 49ers in 1977, she has been an integral part of four decades of 49ers football, including 47 playoff contests and five Super Bowl victories. Earlier in her career, Denise served as President of the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team. Under her leadership, the Penguins were revitalized and transformed into a championship team, winning the organization's first Stanley Cup in 1991. In doing so, she became just the third women to have her name engraved on hockey's famed championship trophy.

A successful entrepreneur, John spent years as Senior Vice President/Director of Racing Operations for the DeBartolo Corporation, instituting programs designed to enhance the fan experience and raise the profile of thoroughbred horse racing. John, a noted pathologist, began his business career in 1982 as Founder of DeYor Laboratories in Youngstown, Ohio. From three employees, he molded the company into a 500-person operation with facilities in three states before selling the company to Corning, Inc., in 1993.

As co-chairs of the 49ers, Denise and John provide the resources and guidance to uphold the 49ers celebrated history and oversee the team's relationship with the Commissioner of the National Football League and other team owners.