Derek Jeter (Transcending Race)

Derek Jeter's career with the New York Yankees started in style. In his first full season in Major League Baseball, Derek Jeter was named Rookie of the Year and helped his team win the World Series. Things only got better from there. From 1996 through 2008, he made nine All-Star Games, won a total of four World Series Championships, and received countless honors for both his offensive and defensive plays. He has also become one of the Big Apple's biggest celebrities, all while giving back to the community through his Take 2 Foundation. However, the road to baseball stardom wasn't always easy for a biracial man who was raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan. There were times he played poorly, times where he shouldered the blame for team failures, and even times when he struggled with sportsmanship. Through it all, though, Derek worked hard to improve, both on the field and off. His story is one that proves that dedication pays off, as he has met all of his challenges head on, emerging as one of the best ballplayers of his era.