Pursuing a dream

All Hands, Sept, 2003 by Cherri Boggs

GROWING UP IN CHICAGO, HOME of major league baseball's Cubs and White Sox, Cryptologic Administration Technician Seaman Phillip Lewis has always dreamed of playing professional baseball. Since the age of seven, Lewis has been in pursuit of this dream, becoming skilled in ever position on the baseball field--from shortstop to center field. His hard work recently paid off when he received the opportunity to try out for the Baltimore Orioles.

Lewis credits his resilience and determination for landing him the opportunity. After being a standout high school athlete in baseball, as well as football, wrestling, track and basketball, Lewis was recruited by major universities but made the decision to join the Navy. After graduating from CTA "A" School, Lewis was assigned to the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C. Throughout his 13 months in the Navy, Lewis continued his pursuit.

"I just kept pursuing a tryout," Lewis said. "I looked into the All-Navy team, but I couldn't give up on the pros. I kept getting the runaround initially, but persistence got me through the door."

Lewis uses that same persistence on the baseball field. Standing 5' 7" and weighing 148 pounds, he uses his speed and mobility to make up for his lack in size. "I do whatever I gotta do to get on base," Lewis said.

His command is standing behind Lewis 100 percent of the way. He was issued TAD orders for the tryouts.

"We think this is a great opportunity for Seaman Lewis," said Command Master Chief Cryptologic Technician Mark Lewis. "He's a good Sailor and is very responsible. Lewis the team would be a big loss for the command, but it would be great for the Navy."

According to Dean Albany, a Baltimore Orioles' scout, players who are

invited to the tryouts have a good opportunity to make the team.

"The Baltimore Orioles have these training camps all over the United States, and the kids who tryout have a chance, that is why we have them," Albany explained. "It has happened before. If they get to the major leagues or not, is a different story. When we sign them, we think they have a chance. If they get a little bit better, maybe they can play in the big leagues one day."

During the tryouts, players are graded on running, fielding and throwing. If they grade out well in one of the three categories, they are allowed to hit. Once they make contact with the ball, scouts take a look at their bats. According to Albany, Lewis' tryouts went well.

"I thought that he did OK," Albany said. "He should work on arm strength, but I think that he did really well."

According to Lewis' command, if he makes the minor league team, they will try to create a new schedule for him. If he makes the majors, they will work with BUPERS to get Lewis transferred to active Reserve.

Lewis' story is an example of great opportunities that can result from the combination of resilience, determination and a strong support system.

"I think I have a good chance to make the team," Lewis said. "No matter what, I won't give up."

Boggs is a journalist and Themistocleous is a photographer's mate assigned to All Hands