A press release from the Mets …

The Mets and the Jackie Robinson Foundation today unveiled the imagery and text for the Jackie Robinson Rotunda at Citi Field.

The Rotunda pays tribute to Robinson, who became the first African-American player in Major League Baseball’s modern era 61 years ago today. Evoking the design of Ebbets Field, where Robinson played second base for the Brooklyn Dodgers, the main entry at Citi Field recognizes and perpetuates Robinson’s legacy.

Engraved into the Rotunda’s 160-foot diameter floor and etched into its 70-foot archways are words and images that defined Jackie’s “nine values:” Courage, Excellence, Persistence, Justice, Teamwork, Commitment, Citizenship, Determination, and Integrity.

The Rotunda also will feature an 8-foot sculpture of Jackie’s No. 42, which in 1997 was retired throughout Major League Baseball.

“The Jackie Robinson Rotunda at Citi Field will serve as a powerful tribute to the remarkable journey and legacy of Jackie Robinson, a great American,” said Fred Wilpon, Mets chairman and chief executive officer. “Thanks to our partnership with Citi and the Jackie Robinson Foundation, the Rotunda will welcome, help to educate, and inspire fans to advance Jackie’s humanitarian ideals for generations to come.”

Rachel Robinson, Jackie’s widow and founder of the Foundation, said, “I am so thrilled to watch the Jackie Robinson Rotunda at Citi Field rise. I am particularly delighted to know that as millions of fans – both young and old – visit Citi Field through its iconic entry, they will embrace Jack’s values and be inspired to effect social change in their own communities.

“I cannot imagine a more fitting tribute to Jack, one that will memorialize him and provide a place that will promote civic engagement and prompt all to strive for excellence.”

JACKIE’S NINE VALUES AT THE JACKIE ROBINSON ROTUNDA AT CITI FIELD:

COURAGE: In 1947, Jackie broke baseball’s color barrier, becoming the first African-American player in Major League Baseball’s modern era, opening doors for generations of Americans.

EXCELLENCE: In 1973, Rachel Robinson, Jackie’s wife, created the Jackie Robinson Foundation to perpetuate Jackie’s legacy and to provide educational and leadership opportunities to deserving students.

PERSISTENCE: Jackie and Brooklyn Dodgers General Manager Branch Rickey shared a resolve to break down racial barriers and create opportunities and social change.

JUSTICE: Throughout his life, Jackie worked tirelessly for civil rights. His humanitarian values and public profile helped to advance the struggle for equality for all Americans.

TEAMWORK: As the Brooklyn Dodgers MVP, All-Star, and Hall of Fame second baseman, Jackie’s athletic talents, drive, sacrifice, and leadership made him the consummate teammate.

COMMITMENT: Jackie’s love and commitment to his family were fundamental to his very being and inspired his lifelong dedication to his community and country.

CITIZENSHIP: The United States government bestowed its highest civilian honors upon Jackie with the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1984) and the Congressional Gold Medal (2005).

DETERMINATION: As a student at UCLA in the 1940s, Jackie became the University’s first and only four-sport letterman, excelling in baseball, basketball, football, and track.

INTEGRITY: “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” – Jackie Robinson

42 JACK ROOSEVELT ROBINSON

1919 – 1972

TRAILBLAZER

HUMANITARIAN

AMERICAN