Robinson was born in Cairo, Georgia in 1919. At the age of one, he moved to Pasadena, California with his mother Mallie.

    Jackie excelled in many sports throughout his highschool career, such as baseball, football, basketball, track, and tennis. After highschool, he attended Pasadena Junior College before moving on to UCLA where he continued to play baseball and other sports.  Even though he enjoyed all these sports, Jackie wanted to focus his attention on baseball hoping that would be his future.

    Before that became a reality, Jackie worked as both an athletic director and a basketball coach.  He also played football for the Honolulu Bears and the Los Angeles Bulldogs in 1941.  He was even drafted into the Army in 1942 during WW2.

    This was Jackie Robinson playing football for the Honolulu Bears

    In 1945, Robinson’s dreams of  playing professional baseball were becoming a reality as he was signed to the Kansas City Monarchs in the African American league.  In 1946, he advanced to the minor leagues playing for the Montreal Royals.  However, it wasn’t until 1947 that Jackie Robinson played major league baseball as a member of the then named Brooklyn Dodgers.

    I chose Jackie Robinson to be the hero that I feel impacted the lives of many individuals. There are many reasons why I feel this way. For example, some traits that describe Robinson are inspiring, dedicated, and hard working.  He was not a quitter.  He faced adversity and racism but rose above it to live his dream of playing professional baseball.

    Jackie Robinson was dedicated to pursuing baseball as a career. He possessed many qualities that reflected this dedication. His determination helped him to achieve his goal of playing in the major leagues. He set an example not only for his peers but also for future generations. Even though he faced discrimination, this did not stop him from achieving his dream to play baseball. 

  I STAY DETERMINED TO ACHIEVE MY DREAMS