The journey has ended and the time has come for America’s beloved captain to end his voyage. The New York Yankees said farewell to their MVP shortstop and model of greatness, Derek Jeter.
During his celebrated 20-year career, Jeter has always poured his heart onto the field, prepared meticulously and worked relentlessly. His famous jersey number is worn on the backs of millions, and the sight of a pinned stripe uniform will now remind fans of the memories he has made on the diamond.
Jeter is also a model for success for others to emulate through his countless roles: team leader, five-time World Series champ and media celebrity. He hopes that if they follow his example, they can overcome their struggles and achieve something great — baseball related or not.
In our era, many professional athletes sink themselves into the filth of controversy. They become representatives of their own destruction. Yet, the captain has sailed above the fray and, for this, we celebrate his honorable attitude.
Jeter isn’t notable because he is the greatest player in baseball history or even the greatest player in Yankees history. He is idolized for much more than his skills in the game. There’s also more to the man than his looks and captivating green eyes. He has a special factor that no other baseball player or even athlete has: respect. Not the respect he gets but the respect he gives and his respect for the game, its history, his fans, his opponents, his family and himself. He played every game with grace and dignity. He was gracious in defeat and humble in victory.
There’s a beauty to baseball. It thrills us. It disappoints us. But it’s always there to be savored. Perhaps that’s the reason we have fallen in love with Jeter. For 20 years, he has charmed us, with few disappointments, and has never made an excuse for mistakes. He’s the type of person we genuinely like for his graciousness off the field as much as on it.
Most of us have our own unique catalogue of Jeter moments that make him feel like a best friend to us. We’ve been a part of his journey for so long and have seen so much of him that we can’t help but admire him.
He never seemed overwhelmed, yet he we was never really satisfied, either. When it was game time and the night sky was dark and the bright lights illuminated the field, a true hero emerged.
Jeter once said, “God, I hope I wear this jersey forever.” Although his time on the field has come to an end, he will always be grateful for the opportunities he received. Jeter may be folding away his jersey, but in the hearts and minds of his fans, we will be wearing it forever. The number two will always be imprinted on our souls, and, for this, we are beyond grateful. We give our farewells to a player who’s meant so much to so many for so long. He has defined greatness in every way it can be defined.
From all your fans, good luck, Jeter. You will never be replaced.
