MLB, football, and basketball

Hello. I've got some extra time because of the snow and ice outside, so I thought that I would go ahead and post mid-week instead of waiting till the end. The first article I have to post tonight is about former Astros pitcher Trever Miller, who signed as a free agent with the Rays last week. Miller played with the Astros the last two years, but had played for the Rays for the two years before that. Here's a quote from him about returning to play for the team near where he lives in Florida:

"It's been a blessing to be able to play big-league baseball at home,'' Miller said. "I didn't think it would happen again. ..."

Here's the article: http://blogs.tampabay.com/rays/2008/02/rays-add-trever.html (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080208&content_id=2368504&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Here's a good article about Georgia football head coach Mark Richt and his son Jon, both Christians. On Signing Day last week Jon, a senior at Prince Avenue Christian School in Athens, GA, signed to play football with Clemson, whose head coach Tommy Bowden (also a Christian) is a good friend of Mark. Mark thought that there would be less pressure on him and Mark if he were to play for someone other than him. I thought that it was neat that Mark went to Jon signing day ceremony before going back to his office to check on his own recruits. Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/columns/story?columnist=schlabach_mark&id=3234394 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/233).

Next, an article about a group of Orioles fans, the Oriole Advocates, who have a neat program called "Cardboard to Leather". The group collects new and used baseball equipment (bats, balls, gloves, uniforms, etc.) to donated to kids in impoverished countries, like in Latin America. These kids would normally have to make-do with whatever they could find for equipment, like making gloves out of cardboard and balls out of tape. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080207&content_id=2367527&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article on NC State women's basketball head coach Kay Yow, a Christian who is fighting breast cancer. This month is "Think Pink" campaign for breast cancer awareness with the women's NCAA teams, and several teams are wearing pink uniforms for one game to raise awareness. One of those teams was Yow's NC State team last week, whose uniforms all also had the name "YOW" on the back to honor her. Everyone at these games--players, coaches, fans, etc.--wear pink. Money is being raised for the Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Fund, part of the Jimmy V Fund for cancer, named after the late former NC State men's basketball coach Jim Valvano who coached with Yow. He died from cancer several years ago. Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncw/notebook?page=notebook/dish080207.

Also, an article about Cowboys linebacker Greg Ellis, a Christian, whose comeback this season from a torn Achilles tendon last season was punctuated by winning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award and being named to the Pro Bowl: http://news.aol.com/story/_a/comeback-led-cowboys-lb-greg-ellis-all/n20080208170809990011?ecid=RSS0001.

Here's an article about Kansas guard Brandon Rush, who tore his knee last summer which caused him to come back to college for his senior year this year instead of going on to the NBA. Here's a couple of quotes from his head coach Bill Self and him about it:

"There's no doubt Brandon's injury has been a blessing for the program," Self said. "No doubt at all. But I wouldn't go so far as to say it's been a blessing for Brandon. If he'd never gotten hurt, he'd be in the NBA right now, and that's his ultimate dream. But if he continues to progress, his draft status will be improved, in my opinion." ...

"'Blessing in disguise' _that's what my mama said. This might be a blessing in disguise," Rush said. "My mom always knows what she's talking about, especially about basketball."

Here's the article: http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/02/08/sports/BKC-T25-Kansas-Rush.php (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/260).

Next, an article about Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez, who donated a custom car for a Boston children's hospital to auction off to raise money: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080209&content_id=2369324&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Bengals linebacker David Pollack, a Christian, who has a big decision coming up about whether or not he's going to attempt to comeback after a serious neck injury or not. Here's a couple of quotes from him about it:

“Even if I can’t play football again, I feel blessed that I’ve been able to play a kids’ game this long,” he said. “The experiences along the way have made me a better person, a stronger person. You learn a lot about life and who really cares about you when things like this happen.” ...

Deeply spiritual, he says he prays daily, not to play football again, but for direction and strength.

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/sportscolumns/entries/2008/02/09/pollack_talks_a.html (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/7).

Also, an article about new Royals manager Trey Hillman, a Christian, and his style of managing: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080210&content_id=2369800&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about former Diamondbacks 1st baseman Tony Clark, a Christian, signing as a free agent with his hometown Padres this week: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3240246.

Next, an article about another Christian MLB free agent Mike Sweeney signing to play with the A's this week after having spent his whole career with the Royals: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3240225.

Lastly, a quote from a Q & A article with IU center D.J. White:

Once you sign your first NBA contract, what's the first thing you're going to buy?

If I am blessed enough to sign a contract, that would be great, but right now I am focused on my senior season and leading my team to a championship.

Here's the article: http://www.bigtennetwork.com/blogs/blogs.asp?topic_id=170.

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/.

MLB, Super Bowl, football, etc.

Hi again. Here's the last of the articles that I have read so far. First of all, a wonderful article about new Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton, a Christian, and the story of his comeback from drug abuse to the Majors and how important his faith was and is to that. I have read several articles about him, and this is one of the best. I guess the good thing about him being traded from the Reds to the Rangers this winter is that he has a whole new fan base in Texas to tell his story to. One thing that I was glad to read was that his friend and mentor Johnny Narron, also a Christian, was hired by the Rangers as a special assignment coach. Narron helped Hamilton last year with the Reds, and I'm glad to hear that he will do the same with the Rangers. Here's a quote from Rangers general manager Jon Daniels about the conclusion that he came to after doing a thorough background check of Hamilton before the trade:

"... I think there are two things that have played a part in why this attempt at fighting addiction has been successful: Family and faith."

And here's a great quote from the writer at the end of the article:

Because for all the amazing physical tools Josh Hamilton has displayed, the one that has made him a major leaguer is one everybody is capable of developing.

It's faith.

Here's the article: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/baseball/rangers/stories/012708dnspowebrangersz.218a1b6.html (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/121).

Here's an article about the celebrity charity basketball game that Tigers outfielder Curtis Granderson held last weekend to raise money for Detroit and Flint (Michigan) public schools: http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080127/SPORTS02/801270698/1050 (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080128&content_id=2357635&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Next, an article about Indiana Ice forward Will MacDonald of the United States Hockey League (USHL), a minor league team. Last summer, he and his parents were in a serious car accident where his father David was killed. A pickup truck driven by a 20-year-old guy hit them when he crossed the median. The guy was charged with careless driving. Here's what MacDonald, who is only 19 himself, had to say about the guy:

David was an accountant who stayed calm. Will is trying to show he has that level-headed composure, too. He is willing to forgive the 20-year-old driver who hit them and was charged with careless driving.

"We rode in the ambulance together and once we got out, I looked over and he was down on the curb of the sidewalk. He had his head down and was crying," he said. "I wanted to run at him and beat the hell out of him, but at the same time, I felt sorry for him.

"I've prayed about it. I hope, after all this, he can find peace within himself so he can carry on."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080129/SPORTS/801290375/1247/NLETTER12.

Here's an article about Cowboys linebacker Greg Ellis, a Christian, being added to the Pro Bowl as an injury replacement this week: http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10607089/rss.

Also, an article about Cincinnati quarterback Ben Mauk, a Christian, trying to get an extra year of eligibility after he was injured in the first game of the 2006 season and missed the rest of the season with a serious shoulder injury. He's currently waiting for the NCAA's decision on the matter, and here's a quote about what he's doing until then:

While he waits for the NCAA's decision, Mauk has been completing his graduate work. He's also working with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to reach out to youths, using his experiences in football as motivation.

"If I can touch a life by what I say, football is definitely worth it," he said.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=AqhmpDG4CgtmCO6aM9wQ3t9.T4h4?slug=ap-cincinnati-mauk&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's an article about Illinois football head coach Ron Zook, who won the 2007 Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year award, which came with $70,000 for him to give out to the charities of his choice. Here's what he did with some of the money:

The charities include Crisis Nursery of Urbana, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Cunningham Children's Home in Urbana, the United Way of Champaign County and Restoration Urban Ministries. Each will receive $10,000.

Here's the article: http://www.bigtennetwork.com/news/article.asp?LIST_ID=1&STORY_ID=15157.

Next, a Christian article about Patriots chaplain and former linebacker Don Davis and how he can connect to his former teammates because he was also a player and knows what it's like. Also, they've seen the way he's lived his life and walked his Christian walk during his playing career. He's also currently the assistant strength and conditioning coach. Here's a quote from him about how he's helped the players deal with the success that they've had this year in going undefeated so far:

While the Patriots haven't lost a game this year, Davis emphasized to the team that the fans' appreciation can be fickle at the first loss or first sign of faltering, but the players have to focus their lives on real importance, not on-the-field glory.

"You can't live for the applause of man, but only grow in the knowledge of God," Davis said.

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5758.

Here's another Christian article about Davis, this one about the spiritual game plan that he devised with the goal of having the players that he works to tell every player on the team about Christ during the season: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5759.

Also, a Christian article Giants team chaplain George McGovern, his role with the team, and what they've talked about. One thing that he's happy with is that the Giants haven't any off-the-field incidents for two years. One reason that he says is responsible for that is the good character that the team's owners and coaches have displayed since he's been there. One of the things that he does is have a coaches' Bible study. He's also the team chaplain for the Yankees. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5760.

Here's an article about former PGA golfer and current Oregon golf head coach Casey Martin, a Christian. Martin has Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, which makes his right leg weaker and thinner and doesn't allow him to walk very much at a time, which is bad for a golfer. He eventually won the right to use a golf cart during PGA tournaments. His leg is in such a condition now that he's contemplated having it cut off and getting a prosthetic one. Here's a quote from him about that:

"It's such a hard thing," he said, "but I've thought about how much happier I'd be if I just didn't have it. I'm almost praying that I go one way or the other, that it gets cured or it goes in the tank. The advances in a lot of these prosthetic limbs are incredible. You see people running marathons."

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/golf/pga/news?slug=ma-caseymartin013008&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Next, an article about new Bengals back-up quarterback Jordan Palmer, the younger brother of Bengals starting quarterback Carson Palmer. I know that Carson is a Christian, but I don't know about Jordan, but I thought that I would include the article anyways. If Jordan makes the team, they will be the first brothers to be quarterbacks on the same NFL team in many years. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AosixJy8RW4NLHCpHq8bAT05nYcB?slug=ap-bengals-palmerbrothers&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's a blog post by IU runningback Bryan Payton, a Christian, about the team's winter conditioning beginning this week. What I wanted to point out was this quote that he included at the end of the post:

WORD FOR THE ROAD: "Hard work provides us with today's needs, prepares us for future uncertainties, and supplies us with opportunities for life." -Tom Ellsworth, Senior Minister of Sherwood Oaks Christian Church

Here's the post: http://insideiufootball.blogspot.com/2008/01/winter-conditioning-begins.html.

Also, an article about Falcons runningback Warrick Dunn being awarded the inaugural winner of the "NFL Neighborhood MVP" award this week, which is given to "a player making a positive impact through charitable programs and contributions". He was given the award for "his foundation's work to help single parents purchase homes". Here's the article: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=345234.

Here's an article about former Astros/Padres 3rd baseman Morgan Ensberg, a Christian, signing with the Yankees this week to try and make the team as a 1st baseman: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10611471/rss.

Sticking with the 1st base theme, an article about Rockies 1st baseman Todd Helton, a Christian, having his baseball number retired at his alma mater, Tennessee, this week: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/news/story?id=3224406&campaign=rss&source=MLBHeadlines.

Lastly, still staying with the 1st base theme, an article about Sean Casey, a Christian most recently with the Tigers, signing with the Red Sox this week: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10613070/rss.

Super Bowl, NFL, basketball, and baseball

Hi. This is my first of three posts for this weekend. There are a lot of extra articles and things with the Super Bowl coming up, so I'll divide the articles up into more managable posts. First, a couple of Christian websites for the Super Bowl. The first site is Athletes in Action's Beyond the Ultimate, which is designed as a witnessing tool. It's redesigned to correspond with each major athletic event, including the Super Bowl. Now it has testimonial articles from the Giants David Tyree and Reggie Torbor and the Patriots Rosevelt Colvin and Ben Watson, along with videos from Colts head coach Tony Dungy and Bears head coach Lovie Smith. Here's the link: http://www.beyondtheultimate.com/default.aspx.

The other Christian Super Bowl site is the Baptist Press' Beyond the Game. They have a writer in Arizona covering the Super Bowl festivities from a Christian perspective who has written articles all week. I'll post the articles separtately later, but here's the site to check out now: http://www.bpnews.net/BPCollectionNews.asp?ID=124.

Another general football site is the NFL Players website, which includes short video interviews and more of seven different players, including two Christians: Colts center Jeff Saturday and Dolphins quarterback Trent Green. The whole website is pretty good, but especially the Saturday and Green parts: http://www.nflplayers.com/server/index.html.

Here's a Christian article about Washington State men's basketball head coach Tony Bennett. The article also mentions two Christian players on the team, guard Taylor Rochestie and forward Daven Harmeling. Washington State came from nowhere last year to have great success, and have had an even better season so far this year. Here's a quote from Bennett about that:

So the Cougars march on, unsure if more blessed March Madness awaits them, but intent upon doing things the right way, regardless of their destination.

“God is teaching me, as always, to walk by faith and not by sight because now we’re in a season that’s more in the spotlight,” Bennett said. “We were higher in the preseason expectations. We talk about not worrying about the end result. We have to walk through the process.”

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5749.

Next, a Christian article about Chadron State runningback Danny Woodhead and his winning the Harlon Hill Trophy, the NCAA Division II equivalent of the Heisman Trophy. He is hoping to get a chance to play in the NFL now. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5750 (originally found at: http://christiansportsblog.blogspot.com/2008/01/danny-woodhead-wins-harlon-hill-trophy.html).

Here's a good Christian article about Tony Dungy's decision to return and coach the Colts for at least one more year. It's talks about one of the reasons for Dungy's return is the platform for sharing his faith that being the Colts head coach gives him. Here's a quote from him about that:

"I enjoy my job, the players, the staff we have here and Bill (Polian) and Jim," Dungy told reporters. "But it is a platform and that's something I talked to my wife and pastor about. I said 'I could stop and start a ministry, but I might not have a platform like this.'"

"I look at this as a job," he said, "but I also look at it as a ministry ... I might not have as effective a ministry as I have right now."

Here's the article: http://www.christianpost.com/article/20080124/30960_Dungy_Sees_Return_to_Colts_as_Chance_to_Share_Faith.htm.

Also, a couple of articles on Bengals defensive lineman David Pollack, a Christian, who suffered a serious neck injury in September of 2006. Lately he has been training for a potential return to the NFL at the Ignition group, Christian-oriented facility near Cincinnati. There he has been working with NFL hopefulls, including Southern Illinois quarterback Nick Hill, a Christian. On February 8th, what he's calling "D-Day", he'll meet with his doctor to make a final decision about whether or not returnning to play would be worth the risk of injuring his neck even more severely. So this would be a good prayer request too, that he makes the right decision for his health. Here's some quotes from him about what he's been doing, his decision-making process, and how the injury has changed him as a person:

... He is instructing and training with 11 NFL hopefuls, including four players from the University of Cincinnati, and leading Bible study for them on Wednesday nights at his Liberty Township home. He’s preparing his body and mind for his potential comeback as a player. ...

“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,” he said. “If it closes one chapter, it opens another.” ...

The experiences of this past two years have changed Pollack.

“I’m always running around. The Bible verse I always think about is: 'Be still and know that I am God.' I’ve never been still in my life,” Pollack said. “I have had time to sit back. It has been a rewarding experience. It’s hard to explain how breaking your neck can make you better.

“I have learned a lot about myself and my wife. I am domestic now, which is crazy. Football players are selfish people. We think we work so hard and have the hardest job in the world. It’s just not true. I had to step out of the box to figure that out.

“Now, I come over here to train, and before I leave I put a load of laundry in. Then I go home and clean and do the dishes. I am more rounded. I help my wife out more. I am a more patient person.”

Here's that article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080124/SPT02/301240057/1066/.

The other article about Pollack has these quotes about his decision-making process:

"Trust me, I'm not going to do anything stupid," Pollack said earlier this week. "If someone says there is a 50 percent chance I'll break my neck [again], I'll never go anywhere near a field again." ...

"Things happen for a reason," said Pollack, who is deeply religious. "I pray a lot, not so much to ask God to allow me to play again, but to help me make the right decision when the time comes. If I'm meant to get back on the field, it will happen. And if not, well, I'm not going to play that what if guessing game. I'll just move on to whatever it is I'm supposed to be doing and attack it just as hard as I do football." ...

"We're getting closer to a decision," Pollack said. "Whichever way it comes down, I'm really mentally, emotionally and spiritually prepared for it."

Here's that article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3215632&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines.

Next, an article from an interview with Tony Dungy, with some more about returning to coach since his job is a ministry too:

Q: You said in the press conference that you consider this more than a job. It’s also a ministry. How much did that influence your decision to return?

A: If it was just about football and winning the Super Bowl, we’ve done that and I have said that I’m not going to be in this forever. I do feel like I’m getting close to when I’m going to finish. I have a great deal of respect for (Colts Owner and Chief Executive Officer) Jim Irsay and want to do what would help him, but if it was just that, I probably wouldn’t still be in it. But the fact that you do feel like you’re doing more than just coaching a football team and you can accomplish some things because of the position – you still have to do your job and you still have to win and all of that – but I get to do more.

Q: Is that why you mentioned that missionaries are often away from their families . . .

A: That’s something my wife (Lauren) and I talked about. It’s something that we feel like the Lord has given us right now for this time. He has put us in a great team, a great organization and we feel like there’s a reason for it.

Here's the article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=185a6dc9-28c8-434f-aaad-75914207b012&rssrefer=south_bend_tribune.

Here's the article about IUPUI (Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis) men's basketball head coach Ron Hunter, Christian, and the results of his drive to get donations of shoes and money for the Christian organization Samaritan's Feet. He coached one of the team's games last week barefoot to raise awareness of the organization, with hopes of gettting 40,000 pairs of shoes. Because of the publicity about it in the days leading up to the game, he had reached that goal by lunchtime that day, and ended the day with 110,000 pairs and even more promised later! Hunter plans to take the shoes to Africa himself, and some of his Jaguars players have expressed interest in going along too. Here's a quote from the article:

For the record, Hunter's exposed feet weren't stepped on during the game. It bears noting that he almost never sits down when the action -- and the feet -- are flowing.

"My feet hurt so bad," he said after the game. "But imagine a child or a human going their whole lives without shoes."

Hunter, 43, said his month-long association with Samaritan's Feet has already affected him, and he knows it could be on the verge of changing the lives of others.

Several of his players have vowed to join him on the summer trip, which he'd like to take to Cameroon, home to Jaguars freshman guard Christian Siakam. In Siakam's family, shoes are a luxury; not everyone has them.

Now, a man with no ties to IUPUI has offered to charter a jet to fly the team to Africa, pending NCAA approval, of course.

"I knew when I saw Siakam's face we were doing the right thing," Hunter said.

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080125/SPORTS06/801250407/1068. Also, here's an article with a video of the news segment from the local news about it: http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7771854&Call=Email&Format=HTML.

Also, an article about Colts safety Antoine Bethea, who was named as an injury replacement for the Pro Bowl last week. Here's some of what he had to say about it:

“It’s a great feeling,” Bethea said. “It’s been a long road, coming from where I came from and how I had to fight an uphill battle. It’s just a continued blessing for me: last year playing in the Super Bowl and now this year, my second year, being selected to go to the Pro Bowl.

“All the hard work you put into it, to get rewarded for it is just a blessing.”

Here's the article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=7214cc89-86eb-4609-ae56-e2ea9ff54daa.

Here's a couple more articles about Colts associate head coach/quarterbacks coach Jim Caldwell, a Christian, who was named to succeed Tony Dungy as head coach when Dungy retires. The first one is an interview article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=85f25998-5166-4677-adec-a93d0558cb7d, and the other is more a biographical one and about how similar he is to Dungy: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080128/SPORTS03/801280350/1247/NLETTER12.

Next, an article about Cubs minor-league pitcher Donnie Veal, a Christian, and about how he lost his father in a scuba-diving accident last November, almost three years to the day after his mother died from cancer. The article tells about how he's dealing with the deaths, as well as his brother Devin, who is a red-shirt freshman football player at Arizona: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355174&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Brewers pitcher Jeff Suppan, a Christian, and the new restaurant that he and his wife own and run in California: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article_entertainment.jsp?ymd=20080124&content_id=2354591&vkey=entertainment&fext=.jsp.

Also, another article about retired Tigers broadcaster Ernie Harwell's (a Christian) 90th birthday last Friday. Here's a quote about some of the things that he's doing now:

He still finds time to stop in at Comerica Park once in a while, occasionally working with Baseball Chapel, other times doing a guest spot on various telecasts....

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355587&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's another article about Baylor men's basketball head coach Scott Drew, a Christian, and the success that the team's having this year after turning the program around from the absolute bottom. Here's a quote about the advice about dealing with adversity that his father, Valparaiso men's basketball head coach Homer Drew (also a Christian), gave him when he took the job at Baylor:

"He was very supportive, and he gave me one piece of advice that was really good," Drew said. "When he went to Valparaiso, they never had had a winning season in their Division I history. He said the Book of Job really helped him."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080126/SPORTS/801260433/1247/SPORTS.

Lastly for now, an article about the celebrity charity soccer game that Dodgers 3rd baseman Nomar Garciaparra and his wife, retired soccer star Mia Hamm, held last weekend: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080126&content_id=2356447&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp.

even more Tebow, Christmas, football, MLB, music, etc.

Hello. Here's my last post for now, because I'll be caught up with the articles that I have read so far. The first article is another article on Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, this one a Christian one. Here's a quote about the amazing story about how he almost was never even born:

His mother, Pam Tebow, in the profile [during the Heisman Trophy Show], said she declined the advice of a doctor to get an abortion after she became seriously ill and dehydrated when pregnant with Tim, her fifth child while living overseas. Bob Tebow said his son is a "miracle baby and so we have reminded him that hundreds of times."

Also in the article, Florida Atlantic quarterback Rusty Smith is a member of Tebow's church in Jacksonville too.

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5723.

Here's an article about the work in the community done at Christmas by some of the pro teams in Washington D.C.: the Redskins, Capitals, and Wizards. Among those specifically mentioned in the article are Redskins wide reciever Antwaan Randle El (a Christian) and Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas. Here's the article: http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/article.asp?article=91647&paper=69&cat=115 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/32).

Next, an article about Padres pitcher Jake Peavy, a Christian, signing a contract extension with the team last week: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10526625/rss.

Here's an article about Braves pitcher Tim Hudson hosting a shopping spree for Make-a-Wish kids at a local Toys "R" Us: http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071212&content_id=2324395&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl.

Also, an article about some of the Bengals giving back to their community at Christmas, including cornerback Blue Adams, wide receiver Chad Johnson, and kicker Shayne Graham. Here's the article: http://news.cincypost.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AE/20071212/SPT03/712120318/1022/.

Here's another Christian article about Tim Tebow, this one including a good video too: http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/284384.aspx.

Next, the last article on Tebow, at least for now! Here's a quote of the letter that he got from President Bush congratulating him on winning the Heisman, which I thought was neat:

The letter was dated Dec. 9 and read:

"Dear Tim, Congratulations on winning the Heisman Trophy. More importantly, I appreciate your priorities as stated in your speech! Faith, family, academics and sport. If your mission was to allow the Almighty to shine brightly, it worked. I appreciate the love and pride that your parents obviously felt last night. Please give them my best. Sincerely, George Bush."

Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegefootball/story/10530101/rss.

Here's an article on the Cubs helping out one of their minor leaguers, Donnie Veal, a Christian, and his brother after the recent death of their father. Their mother had already died three years ago, and there were a lot of bills left after the deaths. Here's the article: http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071214&content_id=2326152&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc.

Also, an article about former Maryland quarterback Sam Hollenbach, a Christian, being signed to the Redskins practice squad last week. At least he has a foot in the door, and as recent articles that I've posted have shown, you never know what can happen from there! Here's the article: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=318622.

Here's an article about Rockies outfielder Matt Holliday, a Christian, having his high school number retired this weekend in Oklahoma. Here's a quote from him about making it to the Majors:

"In high school, I never dreamed I would have the chance to play in the major leagues or play in the World Series. With the Lord's blessings and hard work, I've been able to do that. I always thought I had the talent, but I've learned that you have to keep working at things every day. With hard work, you can achieve your dreams."

Here's the article: http://www.tulsaworld.com/sports/article.aspx?articleID=071215_2_B3_hStil42135 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/97).

Next, just for your information, here's the college bowl schedule, with the first game coming this Thursday: http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=1144&CID=673438.

Lastly, a link to a free download of the song "O Come All Ye Faithful" by the Christian group Rush of Fools: http://www.rushoffools.com/index.html.

MLB, football, NBA, and music

Hi. First of all, an article about Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels planning to reach out to those effected by the wild fires in his native San Diego: http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20071130_Phillies_-_Hamels_to_head_home__help_fire_victims.html (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071203&content_id=2315802&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Here's a Christian article on former Major League pitcher Kent Bottenfield and the Christian music career that he started once his career was over. He has released two albums so far: "Take Me Back" in 2004 and "Back in the Game" last September. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5719. Here's his website: http://www.kbott.com/site.php?content=home.

Next, an article about Tulsa quarterback Paul Smith, a Christian, being awarded the Wuerffel Award which is presented to the college football player who best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement. The award was presented by former Florida and NFL quarterback Danny Wuerffel, a Christian, and the All Sports Association of Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Here's what Smith had to say about receiving the award and about Wuerffel and some about Smith:

"I'm really honored. It's not just an award to me, it's about a person. He's someone I grew up watching and wanting to be like," said Smith. "I was raised in a Christian home by Christian parents and grandparents. He's lived his life in a way that is pleasing to the Lord and that's something my parents have wanted me to do.

"This is the biggest thing (honor he could receive) just because of my knowledge of Danny Wuerffel and what this trophy represents," Smith said. "I was honored to be nominated and become a finalist. To be mentioned in the same sentence with those that have won it, or were even nominated for it, is probably one of the biggest accolades of my life, if not the biggest.

"There's no better person (than Danny Wuerffel) to model your life after, so I'm really excited."

In addition to Smith's achievements on the playing field and in the classroom, he is actively involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes having served as the Tulsa University FCA president the last three years.

He is a popular speaker and singer throughout the Tulsa area, and has participated in inner city ministry, and has been active in programs that educate young people so they can make positive choices about drugs and alcohol.

For more information, check out the Wuerffel Trophy website: http://www.wuerffeltrophy.org/. Here's the article:
http://tulsahurricane.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120407aab.html.

Staying with Wuerffel, here's an article from an interview with the former Heisman Trophy winner's advice for current Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, also a Christian, on what to expect with the Heisman Trophy show and activities. Tebow won the award last Saturday, with Wuerffel being there to congratulate him. The neat thing about Tebow and the Heisman was all the attention that it brought to Wuerffel too. Here's a quote from Wuerffel about Tebow:

FT [Florida Today]: What kind of a relationship have you built with Tim Tebow? He's said you guys talk from time to time.

DW [Danny Wuerffel]: I've been a big fan of Tim Tebow for a long time. He first came to a quarterback camp that I did years ago when he was an eighth or ninth grader. . . . He's certainly grown a lot since then. I really respect him a lot and we do get to visit from time to time. He's seems to be a very considerate, polite, Christian young man.

Here's the article: http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071204/SPORTS/712040351 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/209).

Also, an article about Yankees pitcher Andy Pettitte, a Christian, who has decided to continue pitching for now instead of retiring: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071204&content_id=2317170&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article about Colts safety Bob Sanders, and the day that he spent at a elementary school in the Indianapolis area as part of the "NFL Take a Player to School" sweepstakes (includes video): http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071205/SPORTS03/712050495/1247/NLETTER12.

Next, instead of athletes who sing, an article about music artists in Nashville who are also baseball fans. MLB held its annual winter meetings in Nashville last week. Included in the article is one of my favorite Christian artists, Matthew West, but unfortunately he's kind of lumped together with country singers and the article doesn't even mention that he is a Christian singer instead, who actually sounds anything but country. Here's what it had to say about West:

Meanwhile, it was anything but a down year for the next music star we caught up with, singer-songwriter -- and diehard Chicago Cubs fan -- Matthew West.

"I'm a huge baseball fan in general, but I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, and we were at the ballfield all the time," West told us. "We went To Wrigley Field non-stop."

West, who has three albums and countless writing credits with established Nashville acts, has a new CD, Something to Say, coming out in January. He said he played high school baseball and even got a letter from the Chicago White Sox, but once his dad got him a guitar, he never looked back.

That career choice paid off, and it came full circle last year when West performed the national anthem at Wrigley in front of his father.

"All these years of my dad taking me to the game, and this time I got to take my dad to the game," West said.

West said he was bummed out about the Cubs being unable to win the World Series again, and he acknowledged that next year will mark the 100th anniversary of the team's last title, but he said he liked the signing of Alfonso Soriano and the re-signing of staff ace Carlos Zambrano and has hope for the future.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article_entertainment.jsp?ymd=20071205&content_id=2318601&vkey=entertainment&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article about Bengals cornerback Deltha O'Neal helping to buy Christmas presents for foster children. Here's a couple of quotes about one of the foster kids involved, which I thought was neat:

Steven Foster, 10, couldn't wait to show O'Neal his wish list. Before O'Neal could grab a cart, Steven unfolded a page scrawled with eight items. He wanted everything from an mp3 player to "some hats."

O'Neal and Steven tooled around the sports gear aisle together, trying on batting gloves and testing bats. Then it was on to bikes, where O'Neal took a quick spin on a kids' model. ...

Steven diligently stuck to his list and found many things he wanted. The shopping event was only icing on other good news: he learned his adoption by his foster parents would be finalized today.

"This is the best Christmas ever," Steven said.

Here's the article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071205/SPT02/712050341/1066/.

Also, continuing with foster care, an article about White Sox 1st baseman Paul Kornerko and DH Jim Thome and their wives teaming up with their team to raise money for kids in the foster care system in Illinois: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071206&content_id=2319556&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article about Raptors rookie forward Jamario Moon's long road to the NBA. Moon is getting his first chance in the NBA at age 26, after playing in many pro leagues and elsewhere before and after not being drafted in the NBA draft. Here's a quote from him about it:

“I’m glad I went through everything I did,” Moon said. “I wasn’t ready for any of this at 21 years old, and who knows where I’d be now if I got drafted then? I’m thankful for everything God put me through.”

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=aw-moon120607&prov=yhoo&type=lgns/.

Next, an article about Colts fullback Luke Lawton and other players that have gone from the team's practice squad to playing on the team. Lawton has gotten his most significant playing time this season, his fourth in the NFL, including scoring his first NFL touchdown a week ago Sunday. Here's a quote from him about being released by the Jets last year:

"I asked God if it wasn't meant to be, don't ever let me get another call," Lawton said. "Soon after that, the Colts called me, and God keeps his promises."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071207/SPORTS03/712070464/1058/SPORTS03.

Going along with that article, here's an article listing former NFL practice squad players who have gone on to play in the Pro Bowl. The list includes some Christians too: Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, Packers defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, and Vikings fullback Tony Richardson. Another Christian former practice squad player included in the article is Lions quarterback Jon Kitna. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071207/SPORTS03/712070444/1058/SPORTS03.

Also, an article about Bills tight end Kevin Everett and his recovery from a severe spinal cord injury. Doctors didn't even know if he would live when he was first injured earlier this season, but now he is walking some on his own. Here's a quote about what he's done in the past for kids in his hometown:

Everett had been active in his hometown of Port Arthur, Texas. Last summer, he hosted a football camp in which he charged no admission, handed out T-shirts and made sure every youngster had a ride to and from camp.

"He'd give you his last," said Kenny Harrison, who coached Everett in high school. "His biggest deal was making sure every kid that wanted to be a part the camp was able to be a part of it, no exception."

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AkQilcrFYFNHMaknbtF1ASM5nYcB?slug=ap-bills-everettwalking&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's a good article from an interview with Tim Tebow. I'll be including many more articles about Tebow and the Heisman later this week. Here's this article: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/gene_menez/12/06/tebow.interview/index.html.
Next, an article about Red Sox pitcher Mike Timlin, a Christian, who re-signed with the team last week. Here's a couple of quotes:

... Aside from being a key performer, Timlin is also considered a spiritual leader in the bullpen. ...

With 44 career appearances in the postseason, Timlin ranks
fourth on the all-time list.

"That's the reason you play," Timlin said. "You want to play in the postseason. That's the fun part of the game. It's a lot of fun all year to play, and to play hard. You're there because you want to go to the World Series and Championship Series and you want to be part of the playoffs. That's what teams are remembered for, when they go to the playoffs and win. The reason I get better [in October]? I don't know. I've never really considered myself a pressure pitcher, but there's a lot of pressure in Boston to win. For some reason, God has given me the ability to do that. I've been doing it well."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071207&content_id=2321065&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

Lastly, an article on Rockies pitcher Aaron Cook, a Christian, signing a new contract with the team today: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071211&content_id=2322882&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

MLB and football misc.

Hi. I think that I'm finally going to get caught up now. I'm doing this while I'm listening to the IU/Purdue football game on the radio. GO IU!

First of all, a Q & A article with Braves 1st baseman Mark Teixeira, a Christian: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071109&content_id=2296760&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl.

Here's an article about Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer, a Christian, and how he's blamed himself for the Bengals troubles this season, even though he's had a great season himself: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20071109/SPT02/711090349/.

Next, an article about new Royals manager Trey Hillman, a Christian, and what his new players think of him. Here's a quote about him from Royals pitcher Brian Bannister:

"The thing that strikes you right away is that he's a man of character," Bannister said. "I know that word gets tossed out there a lot, but when you're talking about a young team and an organization that's on the upswing and has been through some tough times in the recent past, it takes a manager that's willing to get into trenches with the players, a guy with passion and a guy that has belief in a long-term plan to turn this thing around. Right away, from what I've heard about him, is he's exactly the kind of guy we need. ..."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071109&content_id=2297139&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an quote from Diamondbacks pitcher Micah Owings, a Christian, on winning the Silver Slugger Award for the best hitting pitcher in the Majors:

"I just take great honor in it," Owings said of receiving the award. "It's very humbling. I've been blessed. It's something I've worked hard at my whole life, and it's something that I will definitely treasure."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071109&content_id=2296739&vkey=news_ari&fext=.jsp&c_id=ari.

Also, an article about new Dodgers manager Joe Torre (that still sounds weird) and his raising money for his Safe at Home Foundation, which works to stop domestic violence: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071109&content_id=2297638&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs, who is still playing while dealing with his father Ron, a former Cowboy, being in a coma. Here's a quote from him about that:

"I've come to peace with it," said Shawn after a Washington Redskins practice Friday. "If you have faith, when you see him in the hospital you know he's no longer in pain, he's not hurting. He's at peace."

Here's the article: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/football/cowboys/stories/111107dnsponflsprings.349b814.html (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/32).

Next, a great article about Navy runningback Reggie Campbell, a Christian, and his teammate, best friend, and fellow Christian Irv Spencer. Here's a quote from Spencer about Campbell:

No one more than Spencer, who's shared both faith and friendship since he and Campbell first met at the Naval Academy Prep School in Newport, R.I.

"That's my brother in Christ, right there, my brother from another mother, as I always say," Spencer says, recounting their initial year together - Irv struggling to survive in the classroom, Reggie seldom seeing the playing field in games. "That was me finding God and having friends like Reggie around me to help me get through there."

Here's the article: http://navysports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111207aaa.html (originally found at: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5709).

Here's an article about an initiative run by the MLB Players Association with the help of several players to get high school students into volunteering in their communities: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071113&content_id=2299734&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Also, an article about the Colts donating $25,000 to the Chargers Fire Relief Fund when they played the Chargers in San Diego last Sunday. The fund is to help those effected by the wildfires in the San Diego area recently. Here's the article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=5aa30500-8e38-4bfb-892d-272eb9aa92b1.

Here's a Chunky Soup website where you can vote for your favorite NFL team (like the Colts!). Chunky then donates soup to the food bank of the winning team's choice. So voting helps out the hungry by having food donated to a food bank. Here's the site: http://www.chunky.com/ClickForCansVote.aspx?EID=2583&MID=1494563&LID=1459.

Lastly, a week or two ago I mentioned that I had started posting articles on Digg. However, I soon found that not every article had a link to add to Digg. I then discovered how to add links to any article or webpage to my Facebook profile page, which I've been doing. I've been adding articles that I've included here and some that I haven't. So if you want to check the articles out and are on Facebook and want to add me as a friend, that's fine, just let me know.

I'm actually caught up now! IU just beat Purdue in the Bucket Game and are now hopefully going to a bowl game with a record of 7-5. GO IU!

MLB, college football, etc.

Hello! First of all, how the wildfires in California effected Royals DH/1st baseman Mike Sweeney (a Christian) and his family, who had to evacuate their home. I unfortunately haven't seen any news about them lately. Here's a quote from Sweeney about the fires:

Ironically, Sweeney said that his family attended a firefighters' pancake and sausage breakfast after Mass just a week ago Sunday. The kids rode a fire truck and everyone had a great time. Now the firefighters are battling an inferno.

"We've been praying for them," Sweeney said. "They're putting their lives on the line."

Here's the article: http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071024&content_id=2281335&vkey=news_kc&fext=.jsp&c_id=kc (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071031&content_id=2289353&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Here's a Q & A article with injured Bengals defensive end David Pollack, a Christian. Pollack severely injured his neck early last season and is still in the process of seeing if he will be able to comeback from the injury or not. In the meantime, he's working as a college football analyst. Here's a quote from him about his rehab:

Q: How's your rehab going and do you still think you'll play football again?

A: I just went to the doctor today. I'm continuing to rehab and continuing to see how my neck feels. It's still a process that's going to take awhile. I had surgery in January and it's a year, year-and-a-half process for everything to heal up. So I'm just sitting back and waiting and letting God take the reins and see where he takes me.

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/uga/stories/2007/10/25/pollackonline_1025_.html.

Next, a good Christian article about LA Galaxy player Chris Klein, which also includes a video: http://www.cbn.com/700club/features/amazing/Chris_Klein102507.aspx (originally found at: http://www.aia.com/news.aspx?newsitem=252).

Here's a good story about Andrew Madden, a teenager from Texas who recently had a heart transplant. He's a huge Red Sox fan whose surgeon in Texas, Dr. Kristine Guleserian, is from Boston and a huge Red Sox fan herself. Through some connections that she had, she was able to arrange for Madden to come to Game 2 of the World Series in Boston and throw out the first pitch. Here's the neat article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071025&content_id=2282491&vkey=ps2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Also, an article on Clemson runningback Ray Ray McElrathbey, and how being injured and missing this season has been a blessing in disguise for him. Last year before his freshman year, he became legal guardian of his 11-year-old brother Fahmarr because their parents weren't able to give him a stable home. Not being able to play this season has given Ray Ray more time to spend with Fahmarr, which has really benefited them both. Here's the article: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/102507adn.html.

Here's a good article about how the wildfires in the San Diego area helped to bring the Chargers closer together as a team. Because of the fires, some of the players on the team and their families had to evacuate their homes. Also, their stadium, Qualcomm Stadium, was used as a temporary shelter, so the Chargers had to move to Phoenix to practice, which they considered a minor inconvenience considering what all was going on. Here's a quote about the fires from runningback LaDanian Tomlinson, a Christian, about the fires coming close to his home:

"It was a day that was just incredible,'' Tomlinson said. "It's unreal when you think about what happened. Getting a phone call, the reverse 911 call, and [them] saying you have to evacuate. You look at the sky and it's orange. You're trying to pack stuff within a matter of minutes. I have two dogs. You grab your dogs and as I'm leaving my community, I see the fires right around my community. At that point I'm thinking it's over, my house is going to burn down. Thank God it burned all the way around my house, it didn't get my house. My house stayed intact. Everything else around my house burned, but I thank God that my house is still there.''

Here's the article: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/don_banks/10/26/chargers/index.html.

Next, a great interview with Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling, a Christian, in the locker room after they won the World Series (the interview is "One on One with Curt Schilling", with a link to it under the title of this article): http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071029&content_id=2287516&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos. Also, check out Schilling's personal blog at: http://38pitches.com/ (more on it later).

Lastly, a few personal websites of current and former Christian athletes that I've come across recently:
Rockies pitcher Jeremy Affeldt: http://www.jaffeldt.com/
Former pro tennis player David Wheaton: http://davidwheaton.com/
Former college basketball player Manny Ohonme and his Samaritan's Feet Organization: http://www.samaritansfeet.org/index.htm.