Derek Jeter named SI's sportsman of the year

[December 01, 2009]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Derek Jeter has been selected Sports Illustrated's sportsman of the year, becoming the first member of the New York Yankees to win the award.

Jeter led the Yankees to their first World Series title since 2000 and his fifth overall while having one of the best seasons of his career. He batted .334 and made a career-low eight errors in winning his fourth Gold Glove.

The 35-year-old Yankees captain also was the recipient of the Roberto Clemente Award for excellence on and off the field and passed Lou Gehrig's club record for hits.

The magazine made the announcement Monday. Sports Illustrated Group editor Terry McDonell said Jeter "brings a dignity and elegance to the game."

The award has been given out since 1954. Michael Phelps won it in 2008.

[Associated Press]

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