David Wright: contributing both on and off the field

On December 20, 1982, David Wright was born to parents Elisa and Rhon in Norfolk, Virginia. David grew up in Chesapeake, a suburb of the city, as the oldest of four boys. From a young age his talent was evident, and with his remarkable athletic ability and incredible work ethic, David became both a star at Hickory High School where he was selected as the Gatorade Virginia Player of the Year in 2001, and a prized major league prospect. Ultimately, he was chosen as the 38th pick of the 2001 MLB draft. After quickly rising through the minor league ranks, David is presently thriving as the 129th third baseman in Mets history. In fact, David’s barehanded diving catch against the San Diego Padres during the 2005 season was recently voted as “Play of the Year” on MLB.com

Living just ten minutes from Harbor Park, home of the Mets Triple-A minor league affiliate Norfolk Tides, David was an avid Mets fan from an early age. “I love being a Met. It was my favorite team growing up, so to be a Met to me is very special,” he said.

David and his brothers...From Left: Stephen, David, Matthew, and Daniel

David is not one to leave his responsibilities on the field. He does all that he can to help the community and the fans. While golfing with one of his agents, Keith Miller, and Emil Bodenstein of Locker Room Memorabilia, the concept of a charity fundraiser was brought up. Viewing the opportunity to help out the greater community, David took the initiative to create not just a single dinner, but rather a foundation that is capable of continuing to support important causes. The David Wright Foundation held its first event of December 16, 2005 at the New York Stock Exchange Member’s Club, bringing in over $100,000 for two Multiple Sclerosis (MS) centers.

It was during a tour of the Gimbel Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center at Holy Name Hosptial in Teaneck, New Jersey that David first experienced the enormous impact that the foundation can make. The Gimbel Center is one of the first beneficiaries of the foundation. David hopes the foundation will grow and continue to help the greater New York City Community.

From a young age, these charitable values were instilled in David, and his brothers Stephen, Matthew, and Daniel. Rhon Wright is a police officer, and the four boys observed their father dedicate himself towards helping the community. As he grew older, David himself helped donated some of his time to the Norfolk Police Athletic League.

 “I have been very fortunate to be put in a position where I can give back and that I can hopefully use my name to benefit good things,” said David. “I love being in a position where I can help out.” Being in the New York spotlight has put David in the position to make a long lasting impact, and enabled him to help those in need.

In a day and age when we are forced to observe the negative aspects of many players, it is refreshing to see a young player that displays such positive qualities.