In America, April 15th is the day taxes are due. For fans of Leonard DiCaprio, April 15th is the day the Titantic hit the iceberg and sunk along with a frozen Leo (still a favorite laugh out loud movie moment). In my family, April 15th is my Dad’s birthday. For baseball fans, April 15th is the day Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947. I have always liked Jackie Robinson not only for his ability on the diamond but how he handled all of the garbage that was spewed at him from fans and opposing players. I am sure he wanted to fight back but if he did he would have been out of baseball and the color barrier would have been in place a few more seasons. This is one of my favorite SI articles, it is about Robinson’s breakthrough month that showed he belonged in the majors.
One of the things that has always amazed me about Robinson and I do not think is talked about is what a tremendous athlete he was. He was the first athlete to letter in 4 sports at UCLA. He lettered in football, baseball, basketball and track. I have wondered how his accomplishments would translate in today’s 24 hour media. How much would he be talked about? Which sport would he choose? Would he leave school early? All of the standard questions that are now asked to the best players coming out of college. I am sure he would have excelled at any sport he chose and would have been a great role model for kids on how to conduct yourself on and off the field, just like he is remembered today.
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