A look into Demetrius Sims city: Balancing baseball, family, school, life
Demetrius Sims just completed a notable baseball career at Huron High School, leading his team to a district title and receiving a second team All-State nod. While most high school seniors get to enjoy a summer of graduation parties before heading off to college, Sims started taking classes and working out with the baseball team at Bethune-Cookman University just two weeks after his final high school game. He returned home last week to participate in the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association All-Star Game at Comerica Park and also had the opportunity to see his family. Sims allowed us to follow him as he balanced baseball and family while preparing for the next chapter in his life.
Photos by Daniel Brenner I AnnArbor.com
"Being able to interact with the best players in the state was awesome," Sims said. "It was a fun experience and one I'll never forget."
Demetrius runs up to the concourse level to talk with family and friends during a rain delay. He acknowledges that he doesn't always show it, but his family gives him the energy to play sports. "Last night was very emotional for me," Don said after the game. "To finish off his final high school game on this stage at Comerica Park, leading off with the best players in the state, it was very emotional." Demetrius takes a moment to himself and tapes up his arms before opening ceremonies. Although he played three sports throughout high school, he decided his junior year he would focus on baseball. "I made my own path, baseball was all my own," he said.Although he respects the aggressive and fierce nature of other sports, he appreciates the relaxed atmosphere of baseball.
While Demetrius stretches, the tarp is removed from the field at Comerica Park. "Every sport he played, he leaves it all out there. No matter if it was on the court or field, he always gave 100 percent," Don said. Demetrius walks up stairs to enter Comerica Park before the game. Don is most proud of Demetrius for playing in high pressure game situations. "Most parents would look away when when their kid is in that situation. I am in a different ball park. I want him to be in the position where there is pressure, as long as he is having fun," he said. Demetrius receives a hug and words of support from a coach before leading off in the top of the first inning. While playing shortstop, Demetrius catches a ball and tags an East player attempting to steal second base. Demetrius says he especially likes the mental aspect of the game. "Every single play, I have to be focused and ready." "I think I played pretty well defensively, but it wasn't my day at the plate," Demetrius said after going 0-for-3 batting with two pop flies and a groundout. The West lost to the East 9-4. "I'm proud of how he carried himself and represented the area and our family," Don said. Demetrius celebrates with West teammates after they turned a double play to end an inning in the all-star game. Sims started the game, but cheered from the dugout in the later innings as coaches made sure everyone played at least one inning. Demetrius' family always stressed the importance of character and integrity. "I think sportsmanship is everything," Demetrius said. "It doesn't matter if one team is better than the other, you have to show them respect."Daniel Brenner is a photographer for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at danielbrenner@annarbor.com. Follow him on Twitter @DanielJBrenner.
Comments
Daniel Brenner
Fri, Jul 5, 2013 : 8:58 p.m.
Thanks Pete. I was very fortunate to have the Sims family allow me into their lives during a critical weekend. AA.com decided to go with the scrolling picture format because it allows for a more cohesive and chronological story arc. It's easy to get lost and skip over captions in galleries. The only disadvantage is the size of pictures cannot become full screen. The black and white adds a timeless "feel" to the story, much like the sport of baseball. And Pete is exactly right, the overcast clouds looked real nice in B&W. How did everyone receive the story? Please write if you have any opinions/suggestions/critiques.
Pete Cunningham
Fri, Jul 5, 2013 : 2:27 p.m.
Amazing job by Dan on this piece. Love the black and white. Really makes pics of overcast days, which there have been no shortage of lately, pop. For more on Demetrius and his baseball/family journey check out this accompanying story: http://www.annarbor.com/sports/high-school/baseball_all-star_game_gives_player_and_family_fitting_final_sendoff/
sweetdaddy1963
Thu, Jul 4, 2013 : 4:09 p.m.
This is a great article maybe I'm a little bias and I say that cause I'm afican american, but it's just great to see a young man of color doing well in the sport I love so well. I hope this inspires more AA kids to stay the course in baseball because the sport needs more all around kids like this don't know if my boy will ever play at the level of Demetritus but this article has inspired him to practice harder good luck D.....
Kelly Mosley
Thu, Jul 4, 2013 : 1:41 p.m.
Great article and pics about a great kid. Meechie, best of luck to you with your baseball career. We will be following your progress! We will miss you and be cheering for you always!
Salbolal
Thu, Jul 4, 2013 : 12:33 p.m.
Very nice article and good photos.