It's Derek Jeter Day. Farewell Captain.

Today we honor Derek Jeter, who has given us twenty seasons of joy and entertainment watching him play the game. He is one of the most loved and respected athletes to ever play for the New York Yankees and is a class act both on and off the field. To our beloved Captain, I tip my hat to you.

We all respect The Captain for being one of the greatest short stops to ever play in Major League Baseball. We admire him for his kind heart and humble attitude. Paul O'neil said "He never put himself above anyone else" and maybe that's why we love Jeter so much. Because we can relate to him. We can connect with him. He was just a kid who grew up playing baseball and his dream finally came true when he got the chance to play the greatest game on earth for the greatest team on earth. Don't we all have a dream like Derek Jeter did? Can you imagine the hard work, dedication and sacrifices he made to get where he is today? He's an example to everyone to never give up, pursue your dreams, work hard, and once you arrive, don't forget where you came from. 

We've watched him grow up over the last 20 years and it has been an honor. Baseball will never be the same without him. But as Derek Jeter closes this chapter, he has the opportunity to open a new one. I can't wait to see what he does next. 

Since 2003, Jeter has served as the Yankees team captain and has accomplished many things throughout his career including: Five World Series Championships, fourteen All-Star selections, five Gold Glove Awards, five Silver Slugger Awards, two Hank Aaron Awards, and a Roberto Clemente Award. He has had quite an impressive career to say the least. But what I find even more impressive is his work off the field. 

Derek Jeter started a charitable organization called the Turn 2 Foundation in 1996 to help children and teens avoid drug and alcohol addiction. He is very hands on with his organization and he truly cares about the kids in the program. The foundation also rewards those who show high academic achievement. You should check out the site and support the cause www.turn2foundation.org I admire any athlete who gives back and knows the importance of making a difference. Jeter also serves as an ambassador for Weplay, a website designed to encourage children to get involved in sports. Thank you once again Derek Jeter for taking the time to care. Maybe one day I will get the opportunity to feature Derek Jeter and the Turn 2 Foundation on Beyond The Offseason. I like to dream big too. 

The quote of the day - which was taken from Derek Jeter's farewell speech today ... "In my opinion I've had the greatest job in the world, I got a chance to be the short stop for the New York Yankees, and there's only one of those"