Salem State College Series

Cal Ripken Jr.
Baseball Legend
"The Ripken Way"

1-9-07--Ripken voted into Baseball Hall of Fame on first ballot with 98.53 percent of votes; third highest in Hall of Fame history!

Wednesday
April 4, 2007
8:00 p.m.

In an age when true heroes are increasingly difficult to find, baseball legend Cal Ripken Jr. stands as a real American icon. The former Baltimore Orioles shortstop and third baseman, nicknamed the "Iron Man," has become synonymous with strength, character, endurance and integrity, and is destined for induction into baseball's Hall of Fame.

In his 21 years with the Orioles, Ripken repeatedly smashed records. One of only eight players in history to achieve 400 home runs and 3,000 hits, he also broke Lou Gehrig's record for consecutive games played (2,130) in 1995, going on to eventually play in 2,632 consecutive games before voluntarily ending his streak. In 2002, his 2,632nd consecutive game was named the most memorable moment in the history of baseball.

Considered to be the player who redefined the position of shortstop, Ripken retired from baseball in 2001, but continues to speak about leadership, loyalty, patience and perseverance---all important life qualities he learned through baseball.

Cal Ripken Jr. is the author of several books, including Parenting Young Athletes the Ripken Way: Ensuring the Best Experience for Your Kids in Any Sport.

Mr. Ripken will speak on "The Ripken Way."

Please note that Mr. Ripken will not be signing autographs.