Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter was born on June 26, 1974 in New Jersey. His mother, Dorothy, is of Caucasian and European decent, while his father, Sanderson, is African-American. Jeter’s father, who played baseball at Fisk University, assimilated Derek into the sport at a young age. Trying to instill a sense of responsibility into the young athlete, Jeter’s parents made him sign a contract every year, outlining a set of rules for his behavior. The contract made is so that Derek was to always keep a positive outlook, and could not tell his parents that he “can’t” do something. With this mentality and his love for the New York Yankees, Jeter aspired to be a professional baseball player.
In high school, Jeter ran cross country and played both basketball and baseball. Developing into a star shortstop, Jeter batted over .500 his sophomore, junior, and senior year. His success in the sport led to him being recognized as an All-State player his senior year as well as the Gatorade Player of the Year. After his high school years, Jeter had planned to attend the University of Michigan on a baseball scholarship, but instead declared for the 1992 MLB Draft.
Derek Jeter’s professional baseball career started when he was drafted 6th overall out of Kalamazoo Central High School. After a few years in the minors, Jeter made his MLB debut in 1995, where he eventually won Rookie of The Year. His career took off from there. The legendary Yankees shortstop became a 14-time all-star, a 5-time Gold Glove Award, and Silver Slugger Award winner. Additionally, the player nicknamed, “The Captain” led his Yankees to 13 American League Division Series, 6 American League Championship Series, and won 5 World Series Championships, establishing the Yankees organization as a dynasty during this time period. His wild success as a postseason player lead to his new nickname, “Mr. November”, the month in which the MLB playoffs take place.
In addition to being an MLB star, Jeter founded the Turn 2 Foundation in 1996. The organization’s purpose is to reward students that obtain high academic marks and maintain a proactive lifestyle. Jeter is also affiliated with the Entertainment Industry Foundation, Soles4Souls, and the Stand Up to Cancer organizations.
On January 21st, Jeter was elected into the Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame. Receiving 396 out of 397 ballots, Jeter was one vote shy of being unanimously elected, a title held only by baseball legend Mariano Rivera. Derek Jeter along with Larry Walker will be inducted into Cooperstown on July 26th, solidifying Jeter’s mark on the game of baseball.
Matheson Bossick
Project Race Teens Vice President
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