If you've ever been to or watched an Indians game, you've probably seen John Adams, better known as the boom boom man for the Tribe - and in the running for throwing out the first pitch.
But who is he really? News 5 spoke exclusively with him about his life beyond the drum.
Everywhere he goes people just 'have' to snap a photo. Fans like Lewis Garcia say "he's just an integral part of the experience of coming to a game"
But his story isn't about how well-known he is...or even how many times he beats his drum. His REAL story is one of commitment.
For 43 years, Adams has attended almost every game, rain or shine. "I am truly blessed, because I get to enjoy something I love, playing the drum, baseball and meeting great people," Adams said.
And for just about the same amount of time he has helped to teach this water safety and mobility class for kids with disabilities, both for free.
Adams said, "It's a labor of love for me doing this"
Health and Human Performance chair at Cleveland State University, Michael Loovis said, "He knows our people, and you can't make up for that...if anybody comes and tries to take him, you're in for a battle, because I will not let him go easily"
If that weren't enough the 65-year-old has been committed to the disaster relief team in Brecksville and started the Cleveland Blues club. All as a volunteer and all for the community.
"If we're not here for each other, why are we here?...I get a lot of joy out of helping other people."
So when it comes to backing the Tribe in the World Series Adams said there's nothing that will keep him away.
"You gotta be there, you gotta be there...this year, it's almost like a storybook... we're a community, so that's not a team down there, that's part of our family."
After all, this is his home. Adams added, "I love this town; I wouldn't want to live any place else."
Adams will be at Progressive Field tonight, sitting in the same seat he's always sat in. He said since his first game with the drum in 1973; he's only missed 43 home games making his attendance count at a little over 3,400 games. - Now that's some serious commitment!
