Derek Jeter has always loved baseball, and he's always been a Yankee fan. Having spent summers at his grandparents' house in New Jersey, Jeter developed a love for the club, and dreamed about playing shortstop while donning the famous pinstripes. Jeter grew up in Michigan, and attended Detroit Tigers games with his parents when the Yankees were in town. "On one of those trips, my father recalls, I promised him that I would play in that ballpark someday," he wrote in Sports Illustrated.
Jeter eventually kept his promise, and he credits much of his success to his parents. "They're big on, you can accomplish anything if you set your mind to it, and you work harder than everyone else ... they wouldn't allow me to ever make excuses," he told ESPN of his parents' influence.
Not only did Jeter's parents instill in him a great work ethic, they required he meet a high standard for behavior, as well. He noted to ESPN that his very first contract was with his parents, detailing grade, curfew, and responsibility requirements. Jeter carried his contractual obligations well into adulthood, making him the success he is today.
