Gehrig went to the High School of Commerce at 155 West 65^th Street and did not play any sports during his first year. He kept to himself and would later tell the press that he did not join any teams due to both his mother and lack of courage. By his junior year he played soccer, football, and baseball-his weakest sport of all. Due to his clumsiness his coach placed him at first base and he practiced. As a hitter he proved to be one of the best if not the best. His homeruns spoke for himself and began to build a reputation. During his high school years, Willhelm fell ill and could not work and so Christina found a job as a cook and housekeeper for a fraternity at Columbia University.