football, MLB, basketball, etc.

Hi, again. The first article this time is a good editorial about Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, by a sports columnists near Indianapolis. Here's a good quote from the article:

The late great coach Vince Lombardi was famous for his quote, “Winning isn’t everything – it’s the only thing.”

Dungy likely would understand where Lombardi was coming from, but he also would disagree. No doubt he would opt for his teams to be all they can be, both on and off the field. The victories that follow provide the icing on the cake.

Here's the article: http://www.theheraldbulletin.com/columns/local_story_033201157.html?keyword=secondarystory (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/14).

Here's an article about White Sox catcher Toby Hall and the community work that he does in both Chicago and in Tampa, where he played at before last season. Like Dungy, he still lives in Tampa, although he now works in the Midwest. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080205&content_id=2364908&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Next, an article about Franklin Central High School (Indianapolis) girls basketball head coach Pam Taylor, who is fighting breast cancer during the season. Here's a quote:

The team rallied around Coach Taylor bringing food, prayers and lots of pink.

Here's the article, including a video of the news segment: http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7827426&Call=Email&Format=HTML.

Here's an article about NASCAR driver Sam Hornish Jr. and his wife Crystal (both Christians), who became parents for the first time last Monday. They had a little girl, Addison Faith. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080205/SPORTS/802050374/1247/NLETTER12.

Also, an inspiring article about Georgia high school star football player DeAngelo Tyson, who was abandoned and abused by family and has lived in a boys home since he was eleven. He recently signed to play football at Georgia next year on a football scholarship. With the help of his middle school and high school coaches and the people at the boys home, he's been able to keep his life on the right track even without a true family. Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/uga/stories/2008/02/05/deangelo_0206.html.

Here's an article about the MLB Baseball Assistance Team (B.A.T.), which provides financial assistance for anyone who has been involved in Major League Baseball. Those who have received help include players, families, umpires, scouts, managers, and front office personnel. Here's the article: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/columnist/thorne/2008-02-06-thorne-bat_N.htm?csp=34.

Next, a Christian article about former Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly, a Christian who is expected to be a top ten pick in April's NFL Draft, supporting the Christian organization Mercy Ships and its work to help people in Africa in particular: http://www.christianpost.com/article/20080206/31098_Top_NFL_Draftee_Endorses_Christian_Charity.htm.

Here's an article Detroit Shock 6'8" center Katie Feenstra, a Christian, being drafted in the WNBA expansion draft by the Atlanta Dream: http://www.ajc.com/news/content/sports/hawks/stories/2008/02/06/dream_0207.html.

Also, I just have to brag a little bit here. The new over-budget Yankee Stadium's facade is being made of limestone from my hometown of Oolitic, the "Limestone Capital of the World". Several important buildings in the U.S. have been made from limestone from here, including the Empire State Building and the Pentagon. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080206/SPORTS/802060464/1247/NLETTER12.

Here's an article about NCAA Division 1-AA national champion Appalachian State starting next season and NCAA Division 1-A National Champion LSU. Last season Appalachian State went to Michigan and upset the then highly ranked Wolverines to start the season. Appalachian State's head coach is Jerry Moore, a Christian. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=AuLZ5MeYrdOxKj8Hpu1PINV.T4h4?slug=ap-appalachianst-lsu&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Next, a note about Tigers pitcher Jason Grilli and his wife Danielle, both Christians, who became parents for the first time last Wednesday. The had a boy, Jayse Rowan. Here's the article (end): http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080208&content_id=2368893&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnered=rss_mlb.

Here's an article about former Tigers and Cardinals pitcher Mike Maroth, a Christian, signing a minor league contract with the Royals last week, with the hopes of making the major league team out of training camp: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080208&content_id=2368908&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

Also, an article about former Seahawks quarterbacks coach Jim Zorn, a Christian, being named as the Redskins new head coach yesterday. He's replacing the recently retired Joe Gibbs, also a Christian. Zorn is a former Seahawks quarterback and has worked help current Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (also a Christian) a star. Here's the article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080210/ap_on_sp_fo_ne/fbn_redskins_zorn.

Here's an article about Bengals linebacker David Pollack, a Christian, visiting a second doctor for an opinion about whether or not he should attempt an NFL comeback after suffering a serious neck injury in September 2006. Here's a quote from him about how he will make his decision:

"I will want to take some time, though, to fast and pray and spend time by myself a lot and try to figure out where God is leading me," Pollack told The Enquirer in January. "If it closes one chapter, it opens another."

Here's the article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/SPT02/802100357/1066/.

Lastly, a blog for the Christian music duo Connersvine, which includes Colts punter Hunter Smith: http://www.connersvine.com/blog/.

football, MLB, etc.

Hi. I'm going to split the articles that I have into two posts and I'll post the second part either later today or tomorrow. Here's the first post.

First, an article about Georgia special teams player Chris Gaunder and about how he's gone from walk-on to special teams player to medical school next year. Here's a quote from him:

This past August, he was rewarded with an athletic scholarship. On Saturday, Gaunder will become the first member of his family to graduate from college.

"We're definitely a family that's hardworking, a family that instills its values in hard work and dedication," said Gaunder, whose mother drives a school bus and whose father is an automobile shop foreman. "I think aptitude is there in a lot of people, but I've been very blessed to be in a family that believes in taking advantage of opportunities presented to you. I've been blessed with some wonderful opportunities."

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/news/content/sports/uga/stories/2007/12/14/bowlgagrad_1215.html.

Here's an article about Diamondbacks 1st baseman Tony Clark, a Christian, who will be playing for a different team next year after a series of trades were made. Here's a quote from him about playing in Arizona:

A Glendale, Ariz., resident, Clark had long wanted to play for the D-backs and finally got his opportunity in 2005 when he was signed as a free agent by former GM Joe Garagiola Jr.

"It was an absolute blessing," Clark said. "I never envisioned an opportunity to play for my hometown team, so when Garagiola Jr. had called, it was literally the answer to my prayer and my hope to be at home. To think I had the privilege of playing for three years and not just one, I count myself as being very thankful."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071215&content_id=2327234&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

Next, an article about Colts head coach Tony Dungy (a Chrsitian) and Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin before their teams played last Sunday. The two have known each other for several years because Dungy and Kiffin's dad Monte (Buccaneers defensive coordinator) coached together with both the Vikings and Buccaneers. Here's a quote from Lane Kiffin about Dungy:

Kiffin, now 32, vividly recalls a particular meeting with Dungy. It happened when Kiffin was a freshman at Fresno State, where he played quarterback.

"He brought me in and sat me down and talked to me about going to college and making the right decisions and all the trouble that could come with college," Kiffin recalled. "It was a pretty neat deal. I've never met a stronger person in his belief, faith and coaching, and in who he is, than Tony Dungy. I've never met anyone close to him."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071216/SPORTS03/712160417.

Now for some of the news about MLB's Mitchell Report about drug use in baseball. I am of course disappointed with the players included on the list, including some Christians, but I have much more respect for the handful of players who have admitted drug use and apologized than those who have either kept silent or denied it. A couple of the players who admitted their use of drugs are Christians: Yankees pitcher Andy Pettitte and Orioles 2nd baseman Brian Roberts. They both admitted using drugs only once or twice, and then stopping because they felt it wasn't right. I have to say that, although they were wrong and that it was good that the truth about their drug use came out, I don't hold it against them too much. It's forgive them than the others who were heavier users and have not admitted using them. Here's some articles and notes about the report and those involved. First, an article about Pettitte and including his statement about his use: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ap-pettitte-hghadmission&prov=ap&type=lgns. Here's another article about Pettitte and about how reactions to each player mentioned in the report should be individually and not condemning the group as a whole: http://proxy.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=3157202.

Also, an article about Brian Roberts statement about drug use: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071218&content_id=2329198&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

The last article on the Mitchell Report is about how teams and fans are more likely to give second chances to those that admit their mistakes than those that don't: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article_perspectives.jsp?ymd=20071218&content_id=2331424&vkey=perspectives&fext=.jsp.

Next, an article on Astros 1st baseman Lance Berkman, a Christian, about how he became a switch-hitter. It also mentions that he likes to watch other switch-hitters, including a couple of fellow Christians: Mets outfielder Carlos Beltran and Braves 1st baseman Mark Teixeira. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071218&content_id=2329274&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article on the Appalachian State football team winning its third straight Division 1-AA national championship. Their head coach Jerry Moore is a strong Christian. Also, safety Corey Lynch is marrying Cissie Graham, the daughter of Franklin Graham and granddaughter of Billy Graham, later this month. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5727.

Also, an article about athletic teams at Union University came together to buy Christmas presents for kids from a child abuse center: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5728.

Here's an article about Cincinnati head football coach Brian Kelly, a Christian, signing a new contract to stay with his team: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3159041.

Next, an article about Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, a Christian, winning the AP Player of the Year Award, to go along with his Heisman Trophy: http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegefootball/story/10535759/rss.

Here's an article about Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian, saying that he would like to coach the Redskins next year and beyond: http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10534554/rss.

Also, an article about Tom Osborne, a Christian, becoming the permanent athletic director at Nebraska, instead of the interim one: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071219/ap_on_sp_co_ne/nebraska_osborne_1.

Lastly for now, an article about Colts tight ends Ben Utecht (a Christian) and Bryan Fletcher honoring a middle-school for their volunteer work last fall: http://cache.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=64b8cc96-1511-4bee-9305-202d9dbfd572.

the Heisman, football, basketball, MLB, and Christmas music

Hello. First of all, I just finished watching the Heisman Trophy Award Show, and Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, a Christian, won!!!!!!!! The piece that they showed on him during the show was great, and the conversations with him were too. He mentioned that his priorities are #1 his faith, #2 his family, #3 academics, and #4 football. He thanked God three times during his acceptance speech. What is so awesome about him is that not even the secular media can talk about him in depth without mentioning his faith and character. His head coach at Florida, Urban Meyer, even mentioned that his Christian faith, which had a big affect on him. Also, his hero growing up, former Florida Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback Danny Wuerffel, was there with the rest of the former Heisman winners. It was talked about how Tebow looked up to him both as a player and as a Christian. I went to college in Tennessee and quickly became a Tennessee football fan, and thus a Florida-hater, since Florida is Tennessee's biggest rival. But I gotta like Tim Tebow, even though I never thought I'd like a Gator. I'll send on articles and hopefully videos about him winning the Heisman as I can.

Here's an article about Seahawks runningback Shaun Alexander, a Christian, who recently returned to play after missing some games because of injuries. He's had to battle injuries both this season and last, after winning the MVP and helping to lead the Seahawks to the Super Bowl in 2005. Here's a quote from him about it:

I know what it's like to hear it from your colleagues in a press box. But I don't know what it's like to hear it if you're Shaun Alexander. So I asked, and I was surprised how resilient -- or immune -- he is to the criticism that seems to follow him everywhere.

"I'm a man of faith, and I read the Bible," he said. "And one of the Scriptures says, 'Let me not be too rich or too poor.' If I'm too rich I might find I don't need God. If I'm too poor I might steal or insult God.

"I kind of feel like that with the fans. Let me not be so involved with what they say, but, at the same time, let me love what they say. Because if I fall in love too much with what they say I might feel like, hey, they're cheering for me. Good, I'm great. But if they cheer for me bad, then I'll feel miserable.

"I do respect and honor what they do because we have great fans. But I'm like, OK, let me love with what the fans do, but, at the same time, not take it so much to heart that it can throw me off."

Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10510347/rss.

Next, a great Christian article profiling 27 NCAA Division I-A and I-AA Christian starting and back-up quarterbacks who are involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at their colleges. Here's the list: Tim Tebow (Florida), Paul Smith (Tulsa), Colt McCoy (Texas), Erik Ainge (Tennessee), Ben Mauk (Cincinnati), Kinsmon Lancaster (Louisiana-Monroe), John Parker Wilson (Alabama), Mike Kafka (Northwestern), Stephen McGee (Texas A&M), Tim Bessolo (Sacramento State), Karsten Sween (Wyoming), Nick Hill (Southern Illinois), Daniel Evans (North Carolina State), Grant Throckmorton (Virginia Tech), Josh Freeman (Kansas State), Greg McElroy (Alabama), Blake Barnes (Georgia), Case Keenum (Houston), Jarod Bryant (U.S. Naval Academy), Carson Coffman (Kansas State), Chase Patton (Missouri), Tim Hiller (Western Michigan), Tom Zetts (Youngstown State), Joe Craddock (Middle Tennessee State), Ryan Roberts (Baylor), Chase Clement (Rice), and B.J. Coleman (Tennessee). Here's the article: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=4BA537B4-6209-46FB-89B535CCC69B399A.

Here's a Christian article about Appalachian State head football coach Jerry Moore, who next Friday night will lead his team in their third straight NCAA Division I-AA national championship game in an attempt to win their third straight national championship. Here's a great quote about him, and something similar to what was mentioned by the broadcasters when I watched them win the national semi-final game last night:

“His legacy is not wins and losses and national championships,” said David Daly, FCA’s area director for Northwest North Carolina. “It’s what a difference he makes in kids’ lives.”

Here's the article: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp&objectID=D8A903C9-A38A-4FFA-9C6701C788FEC4AC&method=display.

Also, a Christian article about Cowboys cornerback Anthony Henry, and how he made it from the projects to the NFL with the help of his mom and his faith: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp&objectID=72F524CA-6FF9-48A4-9F2A726EEBAD9103&method=display.

Here's a Christian article about Mississippi State women's basketball player Alexandria Hagler, who overcame a poor home life and some bad decisions in high school and college to be redeemed and renewed by God, thanks to a Christian friend and teammate Bethany Workman. Here's the article: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp&objectID=EA1ABF3B-607D-4522-A1046B24214D9701&method=display.

Next, a Christian article about Carson-Newman College football head coach Ken Sparks: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=665AC857-C7D7-43DB-B0AFA90171C993FC.

Here's a Christian article about Western Michigan women's basketball player Michelle DeNooyer: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=CDB45A77-AF71-44E9-B025DF6260E9320B.

Also, a Christian article by Jets wide receiver Brad Smith: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=8FA704D7-3601-4F7E-A299E6395FC23ADD.

Here's an article about the Jimmy V Foundation launching the Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer fund. The late Jim Valvano was the head coach of the men's basketball team at NC State along with current NC State women's basketball head coach Kay Yow, a Christian, and they became good friends. Valvano died from cancer, and Yow is currently fighting a long battle with breast cancer. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaw/news;_ylt=AhQOdARyhYQe2xGDUj.ZPI5.T4h4?slug=ap-yow-cancerinitiative&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Lastly, some Christian Christmas music information. First, a link to free downloads of two great Christmas songs from Christian music artist Aaron Shust, "Silent Night" and "O Come, O Come Emmanuel": http://www.aaronshustmedia.com/holiday/.

The other is a great article about the story behind Henry Wadsworth Longfellow writing the words to the poem "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day", which were later set to music. Longfellow wrote the poem during the Civil War, but its message of peace and God is still true in the world today. In the Christmas cantata that I'm singing in at my church, we're singing this song to another tune. Here's the article: http://www.whatsaiththescripture.com/Fellowship/Edit_I.Heard.the.Bells.html.

Beliving in Victory

Here's a good Christian application of Appalachian State's upset of Michigan last Saturday by the pastor at my church, Pastor Kregg Burris at First Baptist Church Bedford, Indiana (http://www.firstbaptistbedford.com/), as written in this week's church newsletter:

I'm not sure how many of you watched the major upset over the weekend. The small David, Appalachian State University from Boone, North Carolina, defeated Goliath #5 ranked Michigan at home in "The Big House" with over 110,000 in attendance. Nobody expected a close game; certainly nobody thought they had any chance of a Division 1-AA program taking down a Big Ten school. But it happened.

The key to the victory, according to Appalachian State coach Jerry Moore was that the team came into the game with an attitude that they could win. Appalachian State has won 15 straight games, the longest streak in the nation. They had a tough task before them, but unlike other teams, they did not become intimidated by the size or scope of the game. For them, it was their Rose Bowl. For Michigan, it was just a notch closer for them to become the next national champions. This creates a perfect storm of overconfidence nurtured by pride and self assurance set up to be humbled by the perseverance and aggressive commitment of the underdog that has nothing to lose.

The Michigan fans stood in stunned silence after the field goal was blocked with seconds remaining on the clock. The Appalachian fans went wild watching the same event unfold before their eyes. Sports history was made: the first time a football championship subdivision team beat a nationally ranked team. The impossible (or perhaps improbable) does happen.

God often will use the small, but highly committed to topple the arrogant mighty. Faith believes and achieves. Doubt and fear defeats and retreats. "This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is is that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." -- 1 John 5:4-5. Our faith enables us to watch the Goliath's of our life fall down before us. Our faith enables us to see victory when others see defeat. Our faith empowers us to victory in Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord. May you experience faith's victory today.

MLB, football, and NBA

First of all, an article about how Red Sox pitcher Clay Buchholz gave his catcher Jason Varitek (a Christian) a lot of credit for the no-hitter that he pitched last Saturday. I always like Varitek's comments about the pitching after games that he catches because he always deflects credit for anything that the pitcher(s) did well ("He did....) and accepts part of the blame when the pitchers aren't as successful ("We didn't...). That was the case with Buchholz's no-hitter too. It was also the third no-hitter that Varitek's caught, one off the Major League record (http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070903&content_id=2186457&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos). Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070902&content_id=2184549&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's another article about Appalachian State's celebration back home in Boone, North Carolina, after their humongous upset of Michigan last Saturday: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/columns/story?columnist=schlabach_mark&id=3001520.

Next, an article about Magic forward/center Dwight Howard, a Christian, and how he will only get better: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/basketball/magic/orl-nbainsider0207sep02,0,1639851.column?coll=orl_sports_basketball_magic_util (originally found at: http://www.nba.com/news/457802.html?rss=true).

Here's an article about how the whole Bowden family has come to hate the Florida State/Clemson football game each year that pits FSU head coach Bobby Bowden against his son, Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden, both Christians. Here's a quote about it:

Along with the relief the winning coach will feel, comes the worry about their loved one's prospects for the season.

"The family aspect of it the last few years has made it more difficult, I don't think there's any doubt about that," Tommy said.

If Tommy was off the schedule, "my wife would talk to me again," Bobby Bowden said.

"It's tough on ol' Ann Bowden," her husband of 58 years said. "She loves her children."

Here's the article: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/090207ace.html.

Also, an article about the severe eye injury suffered by Cardinals outfielder Juan Encarnacion when he was hit by a foul ball while standing in the on-deck circle during their game on Friday. Here's a quote from Cardinals medical director Dr. George Paletta about it:

"So at this point we keep our fingers crossed, say a prayer for him and make sure he's getting the best treatment he can get," Paletta said.

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3002503.

Here's an article about Bucks guard Michael Redd, a Christian, and his good prospects for making the Olympic team next summer: http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=655903 (originally found at: http://www.nba.com/news/457519.html?rss=true).

Next, an article about Colts safety Bob Sanders helping kids shop for school uniforms. Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) required students to wear uniforms for the first time this year, so different groups and businesses were helping out families who couldn't afford them. Sanders helped to encourage the kids to by telling them that he had to wear uniforms when he was in school too. Here's the article (includes video too): http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7018238.

Here's a great Q & A article with Panthers kicker John Kasay, a Christian. Here's a quote:

Q: You’ve been in the league 17 years and you’re still kicking. Even though kickers are able to have more longevity than some position players, how incredible is that to you and what keeps you going?

A: I don’t really think about longevity as far as where it fits. I’m always kind of preparing for the next opportunity, and I’ve been very blessed to be able to play this long. So it’s more, I am where I am, and the challenges are coming forward. They don’t give you any grace or any room for being a little older. The expectations still stay high. And it’s only the Lord that’s been able to get me through and have me still playing.

Q: You have always openly professed your faith. How do you carry your faith from your personal life onto the football field, and how has it helped you deal with the successes and adversity you have faced over your career?

A: I think people carry their faith, everybody does. I mean, you are who you are, and whatever you believe, you act upon that. I’ve never made any bones or any shortcomings about my love for Jesus Christ, and I never will. God has blessed me, giving me an opportunity to do things I’ve never dreamt I’d be able to do, and it’s really for His glory and that’s why I do it.

Q: How much do you trace lack of faith or (lack of) a spiritual foundation to the troubles so many NFL players seem to be getting into these days?

A: Well, you know, the different issues that face each and every one of us, the temptations are great. It’s a hard thing, a very hard thing, the decisions are not always easy and they’re not always simple. Things can be very unforgiving sometimes. So many of us have been spared of the consequences, from decisions that we’ve all made. So hopefully everybody learns from poor decisions that we make and try not to make those decisions again.

Here's the article: http://www.journalnow.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=WSJ%2FMGArticle%2FWSJ_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173352579222&path=!sports!football!&s=1037645509262 (originally found at: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5662).

Also, an article about Padres starting pitcher Jake Peavy, a Christian, who volunteered to pitch on one day less rest to help the team out in the division title chase. Unfortunately, it back-fired and he got hit hard on Wednesday by the Diamondbacks(http://sandiego.padres.mlb.com/news/gameday_recap.jsp?ymd=20070905&content_id=2191647&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=sd). Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AvbKyAzCBZY3Wj4M41ubUp45nYcB?slug=ti-peavy090307&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Here's a note about the success of Cubs 1st baseman Derrek Lee's Project 3000 for research for the eye disease that effects his daughter. His teammate Ryan Dempster donates money to the organization too:

Good cause: Every time Ryan Dempster saves a game, it's another donation to [Derrek] Lee's Project 3000, which has raised more than $960,000 since its inception one year ago. Dr. Edwin Stone, who heads the research at University of Iowa Carver Family Center, said they are receiving samples of people with Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA) at more than five times the rate before Project 3000 began. Lee's daughter, Jada, was diagnosed with LCA in September 2006.

In Spring Training, Dempster pledged $50,000 plus $1,000 per save during the season to Project 3000.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070903&content_id=2186771&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc&partnered=rss_chc.

Lastly, the website for the MLB Roberto Clemente Award for community service. Each team nominates a player, and then the fans vote on the winner. The site includes a list of the nominees with an article about each player. The nominees include several Christians, which I'll include more on later. Here's the website: http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/official_info/community/clemente.jsp.

football and MLB misc., etc.

First of all, an article about how important Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer, a Christian, will be to his team's success this season: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070831/SPT02/708310345/1066/rss07.

Here's an article about the meeting between two MLB outfielders with great comeback stories last weekend: the Reds Josh Hamilton (a Christian) and the Cardinals Rick Ankiel, whose teams played against each other. Both had to overcome a lot to be playing in the Majors this season. Here's a quote from Hamilton about it:

"You have good days and you have bad days. That's playing ball and that's everyday life," Hamilton said. "This says a lot about God and how to stay faithful. There's really no reason why I should have been able to come back and play as well as I have."

Here's the article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070831/SPT04/708310346/1071/rss08.

Next, an article about Red Sox relief pitcher Mike Timlin, a Christian, reaching the 1,000 appearance milestone last Friday night. He's only the 13th pitcher to ever accomplish that. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070901&content_id=2182508&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about the Virginia Tech/East Carolina game last Saturday, which Virginia Tech held on to win at home. It was an emotional day as it was the first major sporting event for Virginia Tech since the mass shootings there last April and they had pre-game ceremonies to honor those that were killed. Here's a quote from after the game:

... When it was over, both teams kneeled at the 50-yard line for a prayer. Then the Hokies turned toward the band in the north end zone, singing along while they played the school's alma mater.

Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegefootball/gamecenter/recap/NCAAF_20070901_ECA@VATECH.

Also, a couple of articles about Appalachian State's HUGE upset of Michigan last Saturday. Something funny that I did hear on ESPN about it was that the highest ranked team did win: Appalachian State was #1 and Michigan #5, but Appalachian State is only in Division 1-AA, not 1-A like Michigan. Michigan ended up completely dropping out of this week's rankings, and all hopes of a national title are gone. By the way, Appalachian State's head coach Jerry Moore is a Christian. Here's an article about the game itself: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272440130&confId=null&date=20070901.

The other article about Appalachian State is about the celebration that began on their campus in Boone, North Carolina as soon as the game ended, including one of the goal posts being torn down and put in the chancellor's front yard. Here's a quote from Jerry Moore about his team:

"Just God bless them," Moore said of his players in his thick Southern drawl. "It's a crowning achievement. They're a great bunch of kids and they have worked so hard."

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=AkJ63Ikmi0Kb5iWjnsR8tgF.T4h4?slug=dw-appstate090107&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Next, an article about Braves 1st baseman Julio Franco, a Christian, returning from the minors to help the team try and make the playoffs with his leadership and pinch-hitting: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070901&content_id=2182886&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl&partnered=rss_atl.

Here's an article about Giants pitcher Russ Ortiz, a Christian, having to have Tommy John elbow ligament transplant surgery. He'll be out for all of next season as well as the rest of this one. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070901&content_id=2183564&vkey=news_sf&fext=.jsp&c_id=sf&partnered=rss_sf.

Also, a note about Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur's (a Christian) consectutive games played streak:

Francoeur's streak second in majors
Jeff Francoeur started his 300th consecutive game Saturday, a streak that began with the last two games of his 2005 rookie season.

It's the second-longest active games streak in the majors behind the 330-gamer by Cleveland's Grady Sizemore, who hasn't started all games in his streak.

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/09/01/franco_0902.html.

Here's an article about the IU/Indiana State football game last Saturday, and the pre-game ceremony to honor IU's late head coach Terry Hoeppner. Hoeppner died last June from complications from brain cancer. The ceremony included Hoeppner's wife and kids. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070902/COLUMNISTS01/709020438/1247/SPORTS0107.

Lastly, an article about the track and field world championships in Japan last weekend, Allyson Felix, a Christian, won gold in the 200, 400 relay, and 1,600 relay. Another Christian, Catherine Ndereba of Kenya won the gold in the marathon. Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/oly/trackandfield/news/story?id=3001868.

baseball, football, etc.

First of all, an article about new Butler basketball head coach Brad Stevens. Here's a quote from him about his coaching staff:

"The thing about all of those guys is they all have experience at Butler," Stevens said. "They know what we're trying to do and they're all really well-liked. They all do a good job. I couldn't be more blessed to have those guys stay around and be a part of it."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=schlabach_mark&id=2962933.

Here's an article about Major League Lacrosse's Los Angeles Riptide giving back to the kids in inner-city LA. They not only provide instruction and equipment for lacrosse, but they also provide encouragement for the kids to do well in school and continue on to college. Here's the article: http://www.majorleaguelacrosse.com/news/index.html?article_id=756.

Next, a good article on Lions quarterback Jon Kitna, a Christian, and how much he helped Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer (also a Christian) when Kitna was with the Bengals before going to the Lions. Here's a quote from Kitna about his season last year with the Lions, when they went 3-13:

"As hard as it was in terms of wins and losses, it was the year of the biggest spiritual growth for me and my family," Kitna said. "We had a lot of guys on the team getting saved for the first time and getting baptized. It was the same thing when the Lord led us to Cincinnati. He used football to move us to Detroit."

Here's the article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070807/SPT02/708070325/1066/rss07.

Here's a great blog post from Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, this week:

An Encouraging Scripture

In the last couple of days I've gotten a lot of letters and e-mails from people who've read Quiet Strength. Many people have asked about how our family dealt with some of the tough times in our lives and how we as a team dealt with disappointing losses, injuries, etc. I've really been surprised at the number of parents I've talked to who have lost children in some way recently. I've tried to share with them my faith and just the fact that we have to follow God, even in those painful times when we don't understand how He is working.

In our coaches' bible study we came across a passage in Isaiah Chapter 65 that has been a major encouragement to me and now I've been able to share it with people who have lost loved ones and give them some real, tangible thoughts on how to look at their situation and still have hope. Starting at verse 17 Isaiah describes God's plan for the heaven He has in store for us

"Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, and no one will even think about the old ones anymore. Be glad; rejoice forever in my creation! And look! I will create Jerusalem as a place of happiness. Her people will be a source of joy. I will rejoice over Jerusalem and delight in my people. And the sound of weeping and crying will be heard in it no more.
No longer will babies die when only a few days old. No longer will adults die before they have lived a full life.
Verse 25 ends like this:
The wolf and the lamb will feed together.. The lion will eat hay like a cow... In those days no one will be hurt or destroyed on my holy mountain. I, the Lord have spoken."

I have read this several times in the last couple of weeks and when we have events like the bridge collapse in Minnesota, I can take comfort from this passage, knowing that, while we experience these trgedies now, there is coming a time when we won't have to experience them anymore and we will be living in perfect peace.

Here's the webpage: http://www.mycolts.net/blogentry/2bbfe82d-cd13-47c1-a005-e8b48b2ec00a.

Also, an article about Mets pitcher Tom Glavine and getting his 300th win on Sunday. Here's a good quote from him:

As he reflected on his accomplishment, Glavine viewed the 300 wins as a snapshot in his life.

"I am a baseball player for a short period of time in the scope of my life," he said. "I have a whole lot more time as a person away from baseball. Character is what matters."

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/08/07/glavine_0808.html.

Here's an article about Braves 1st baseman Julio Franco, a Christian, being sent to Single-A for the rest of August. He'll be back with the Braves on September 1st, and then probably on the post-season roster, should (WHEN!) the Braves make it that far. Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/08/07/franco_0808.html.

Next, an article about former Braves outfielder Dale Murphy and his opinion that Giants outfielder Barry Bonds is a bad example for kids: http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/08/08/bonds_murphy_0808.html.

Here's an article about the retirement of Panthers safety Mike Minter (a Christian) this week. Here's a quote about him:

What Minter lacked in size and speed, he made up for with his toughness, crowd-pleasing hard hits and his work in the community, ranging from the YMCA to his local church.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-panthers-minterretires&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Also, a Q & A article about Colts offensive lineman Dylan Gandy, a Christain. Here's a couple of quotes from him:

Anything new this offseason?
"Well, I got married, to a Hoosier girl, so that's good."

Where's she from?
"She's originally from Sheridan, but she's been living in Indy for the past several years. I met her at a church we go to, Common Ground, through a friend." ...

There are two other Texas Tech guys on the team (rookies Gabriel Hall and Keyunta Dawson). Do you know them well?
"Yeah, I played with both of them. Keyunta and I were in Bible studies throughout college, off and on, and Gabe's a real good guy. I'm just proud to see those guys here and doing so well."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007708080452.

Here's another Q & A article, this one with Appalachian State head football coach Jerry Moore, a Christian: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/080807abb.html.

Next, an article about a men's outreach that a church in Missouri had recently. The speakers at the event included former NFL offensive tackle Grant Williams and former MLB catcher Mike Matheny. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5644.

Here's an article about an organization for Christian Minor and Major League umpires called "Calling for Christ". It was started by MLB umpires Ted Barrett and Rob Drake a few years ago. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5643.

Also, just an interesting bit of information about Nationals pitcher Mike Bacsik, who gave up Barry Bonds record-breaking homer #756 last Tuesday, and his dad, a former MBL pitcher also named Mike Bacsik:

Once upon a time, a pitcher named Mike Bacsik faced a legendary slugger who had 755 home runs. The slugger, Hank Aaron, did not add to his total, and the confrontation became the stuff of Bacsik family lore.

Thirty-one years later, history did not repeat itself.

Bacsik's son and namesake, a round-faced left-hander with the Washington Nationals, faced another legendary slugger who had 755 home runs. And that slugger, Barry Bonds, blasted a full-count fastball 435 feet into the right-center field bleachers in the fifth inning Tuesday night, breaking Aaron's all-time record and thrusting the younger Bacsik into the limelight.

He grasped the moment. He didn't grope for words. It was almost as if he'd rehearsed a concession speech.

"If my dad would have been gracious enough to give up a home run, we'd both have given up a No. 756," he quipped.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=sh-bacsik080807&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Here's an article about Bengals defensive linebacker Landon Johnson. He's about a polar opposite of another Johnson on that team, Chad Johnson. By the way, their training camp is at Georgetown College in Kentucky, a Baptist college. Here's a quote from him:

"It's not all about attention. I think a little bit of attention is good because it gives you the opportunity to express your beliefs. I have a strong faith in God, so getting a little attention gives you the opportunity to express that to other people."

Here's the article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070808/SPT02/708080339/1066/rss07.

Next, a neat article about Astros outfielder Hunter Pence, who helped pass out T-shirts to fans on his T-shirt day last Wednesday. He's currently on the disabled list, so he was trying to fill the time. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070808&content_id=2137520&vkey=news_hou&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou.

Lastly, an article about former NBA player Chris Dudley hosting a camp for kids with diabetes this week. He's also diabetic himself. Here's the article: http://www.nba.com/blazers/news/Chris_Dudley_still_giving_back-234071-1218.html?rss=true.

baseball and football misc.

First, a Christian article about Brian Stokes, who served in the Marines in Iraq, and then played football at Appalachian State: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5566.

Here's a great story from the Royals game a week ago Wednesday against the Twins, involving Royals players Mike Sweeney (a Christian) and David DeJesus:

Sweeney and DeJesus had each talked earlier in the day to 11-year-old Matt Herndon, a Kansas City youngster scheduled to undergo brain surgery today in Dallas.

“I asked him how he was doing,” Sweeney said, “and he told me I was his favorite player … He asked me if I could hit a homer for him. I said I’d try, and I promised we’d all pray for him.

“That’s why I was running so hard around the bases (after hitting the homer). My arms were tingling. I could feel the spirit (of prayer) moving through me.”

DeJesus promised no homers, although he had three of the Royals’ nine hits, and was struck again by the impact players have as role models.

“It’s amazing,” he said, “how much a phone call matters. He told me this was one of the greatest days of his life. I told him when he gets back to Kansas City, to come to the ballpark and we’ll all take care of him.”

So maybe it wasn’t just Soria in the late innings. Perhaps providence lent a hand and made sure that, no, even the Royals couldn’t lose this game. No matter what the bullpen did....

“This one feels great,” Sweeney said, “for a lot of reasons.”

Here's the article: http://www.kansascity.com/164/story/84307.html (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070427&content_id=1933062&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Next, Cubs minor league pitcher Donnie Veal, who pitches for the AA Tennessee Smokies. He's keeping an journal this season on the Minor League Baseball site, and the Cubs site has links to it also. Here's a quote from an e-mail that he answered in his most recent entry:

Since they keep players on the move so much, how do they make time for them to go to church? -- Jerry E.

We don't usually have time to get to church on Sunday. Unless you are able to find a church you like within a week or so because we are on the road all the time. Every team offers Chapel every Sunday at the ballpark, and I attend that every week.

Here's the article: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070427&content_id=234453&vkey=news_milb&fext=.jsp&partnered=rss_chc. Here's the link to his journal's main site, along with 3 other minor leaguers (I'll add this link to my links): http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/features/journals/y2007/index.jsp. Also, here's an article about him from the Cubs site during spring training for more information about him: http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070323&content_id=1855988&vkey=spt2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc.

Also, a note about Cubs catcher Michael Barrett, a Christian, helping to raise money for Derrek Lee's foundation to help find a cure for the disease that affected Lee's daughter:

Good cause: Michael Barrett will take part in a silent auction at Gino's East restaurant to benefit Project 3000 on May 1-6. Among the items to be auctioned are a white "W" flag signed by the entire Cubs team. The auction will be held at Gino's East at 162 E. Superior Street in Chicago, and fans are invited to come to the restaurant to bid on the items. The other items to be auctioned include a Barrett catcher's mitt, chest protector and cleats, Cubs jerseys, bats and balls, and four tickets and a field pass to a Cubs game this season. Winning bidders not present May 6 will be contacted by the restaurant. Barrett will take part in a meet and greet at the restaurant on May 6 from 7-10 p.m. CT.

Project 3000 is the nonprofit organization Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee established to find a cure for Lebers Congenital Amaurosis, a form of blindness which afflicts his daughter, Jada.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070427&content_id=1933567&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc.

Lastly, a quote from former Ohio State football player and new Colts draft pick Anthony Gonzalez on being drafted by the Colts:

Gonzalez agreed. He said he was "hoping and praying'' he would be drafted by the Colts....

Here's the quote: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070429/SPORTS03/704290394/1004/RSS02.

mostly football misc.

First of all, here's an article on Appalachian State football coach Jerry Moore: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5547.

Here's an article that just made me mad. The writer basically said that Colts coach Tony Dungy had no business bringing up God and his faith during the Super Bowl trophy presentation, saying that it showed intolerance. Dungy and others speaking out about their faith was the best part of the Super Bowl this year! Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070212/SPORTS03/702120362/1100.

Next, an article about the MLB Players Association helping out the people in the Gulf Coast. The players involved were the Dodgers Marlon Anderson, Rockies LaTroy Hawkins, and Brewers Chris Capuano. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070213&content_id=1800836&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Lastly, an article about Colts owner Jim Irsay donationg money to help the victims of the tornadoes in central Florida during Super Bowl week: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070213/SPORTS03/702130354/1100.