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/.

Super Bowl, MLB, football, etc.

Hello again. First, an article about Make-A-Wish kids being treated to the Super Bowl last weekend. Some of the past and present NFL players that greeted them there were Browns quarterback Brady Quinn, Dolphins quarterback Cleo Lemon, Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards, and former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, father of Giants quarterback Eli and Colts quarterback Peyton. Here's the article: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2008-02-02-make-a-wish_N.htm?csp=34.

Here's an article about MLB 3rd baseman Corey Koskie, a Christian most recently with the Brewers, whose career is limbo while he waits for the effects from post-concussion to maybe go away. He can't start playing again until the symptoms are completely gone, so right now he's staying at home with his family, which of course isn't all bad. Here's a good quote from his son about it:

In his transition from professional third baseman to Little League dad, Koskie has found that some emotional hurdles are more difficult to surmount than others. Each night, he leads his three young sons through their bedtime prayers. During one recent session, he asked the boys if they had any special requests.

"God, can you please heal my daddy's head?'' asked Bradley, the oldest at age 7.

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=crasnick_jerry&id=3224294.

Next, an article from the Saved in Sports blog about why in the world would the federal government think that it should get involved with the Patriots spy-tape scandal. I think that I would have to agree. Here's the article: http://savedinsports.wordpress.com/2008/02/02/patriots-spy-tapes-why-is-the-government-involved/.

Here's a couple of Christian articles about Chargers runningback LaDanian Tomlinson being awarded the Bart Starr Award from Athletes in Action (AIA) for outstanding character. The award presentation was part of AIA's Super Bowl Breakfast. The first article is a little bit more about the award itself. Here's a quote about what Tomlinson does in the community:

Tomlinson’s influence has impacted the lives of thousands of young people. Tomlinson’s Touching Lives Foundation works to promote educational, social and cultural awareness and positive self-esteem to help enhance the lives of children and families who are less fortunate. The foundation hosts programs including youth football camps, Thanksgiving meals for needy San Diego families, Christmas gifts for ill children and scholarships which are presented each year to 30 college-bound students.

Here's the article: http://www.aia.com/news.aspx?newsitem=266.

The second Christian article about Tomlinson getting the Bart Starr Award is more about what Tomlinson and the other speakers there said. Other Christians there were Colts head coach Tony Dungy, Giants general manager Jerry Reese, Patriots team chaplain Don Davis and linebacker Rosevelt Colvin, Bears Hall-of-Fame linebacker Mike Singletary, and Buccaneers linebacker Derrick Brooks. Here's a quote from Tomlinson:

"When you're knocked down in life, Jesus Christ in us says get up and try again," Tomlinson said. "I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for allowing me to stand before you."

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5765.

Also, another article about AIA's Super Bowl Breakfast, comparing it to the other secular events going on during Super Bowl Week: http://www.blog.newsweek.com/blogs/starr/archive/2008/02/03/the-other-super-bowl.aspx.

Here's an article about another Super Bowl week event, the Day of Champions hosted by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Some of the Christians involved were Cardinals linebacker Gerald Hays, defensive lineman Bertrand Berry, and cornerbacks Matt Ware and Michael Adams; Raiders quarterbacks Josh McCown and Andrew Walter; and Chiefs wide receiver Eddie Kennison. Here's a quote about the purpose of the event:

More than a dozen 12 NFL players shared the stage at North Phoenix Baptist with Christian rap band Grits to underscore how true champions look to the power of Jesus Christ in their lives.

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5766.

Next, an article about another Super Bowl Week Christian event, the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. The Christians involved were former Cowboys offensive lineman Marcus Price, Seahawks kicker Josh Brown, Giants wide receiver David Tyree, Colts head coach Tony Dungy, Patriots assistant coach and team chaplain Don Davis, Bears tackle Tommie Harris, Bills tight end Michael Gaines, Falcons fullback Ovie Mughelli, and Jets wide receiver Brad Smith. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5767.

Here's an article about former Redskins wide receiver Art Monk, a Christian, being elected to the Pro Football Hall Fame last weekend, along with former teammate and fellow Christian, cornerback Darrell Green. Here's a quote about what it meant to Monk to go in with Green:

For Monk, being elected to the Hall of Fame with Green "just makes it even more special to know that Darrell's in there with me. We had a lot of special times out there on the field. Even more importantly to myself and to him, was our relationship off the field.

"We've spent a lot of time together working within this community serving the underserved. We fellowship together at the same church. Our families are very close. Our children call each other aunts and uncles. It's just really special to know not only that we're in, but we're going in together."

Here's the article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/02/AR2008020202391.html?hpid=topnews (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/32).

Also, a Christian article listing "the top twelve evangelical Christians in sports". Those in the list are NASCAR team owner and former Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, Yankees closer Mariano Rivera, Lakers guard Derek Fisher, Seahawks runningback Shaun Alexander, track and field sprinter Allyson Felix, Colts punter Hunter Smith, Padres pitcher Jake Peavy, Colts head coach Tony Dungy, Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, NASCAR driver and team owner Michael Waltrip, PGA golfer Zach Johnson. Here's the article: http://www.christianpost.com/article/20080203/31065_Top_12_Evangelical_Christians_in_Sports.htm.

Here's a Christian article about former Bear and Hall-of-Fame linebacker Mike Singletary speaking at the Giants team chapel the night before the Super Bowl. The article also tells some about Giants wide receiver David Tyree's amazing catch in the Super Bowl. Here's a quote from Singletary before he spoke to the Giants:

"Reflect God's glory, don't hold it yourself," Singletary said he would be telling the Giants.

Here's the article: http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=27322.

Next, an article about Giants wide receiver David Tyree's amazing catch. Here's a quote about Tyree:

Deeply religious, Tyree fell to his knees on the field when the game ended. About a half-hour later, he was being interviewed as a star of the game.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AhzKiz.P.bDMY7DZ4OOonKF.T4h4?slug=ap-superbowl-key&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's an article about the NFL donating the Super Bowl and other playoff losers shirts to the Christian organization World Vision to give out to needy children around the world. So there will be some kids somewhere wearing Patriots Super Bowl XLII Champions T-shirts. Here's the article: http://www.christianpost.com/article/20080204/31069_NFL_Donates_Super_Bowl_Loser.

Also, a great article about how faith plays a role in the decisions that high school football players make in deciding where to play college ball at. The article is especially about Clemson and their head coach Tommy Bowden, a Christian. Three Christian players who signed with Clemson who said that Bowden's beliefs were a factor in them going there are Dalton Freeman, Kenneth Page, and DaQuan Bowers. Here's a quote from Bowers about his decision to go to Clemson:

Definitely, says Clemson's DaQuan Bowers, a 6-foot-4, 267-pound defensive lineman considered the country's top prospect by ESPN and top five by most other services.

Bowers played guitar at Light of the World Baptist Church in his hometown of Bamberg and plans to take an active role with Clemson's FCA branch.

Religion "was a big part," Bowers said. "All the coaches, they're Christian men. I didn't want to go anyplace where I wouldn't fit in as a Christian."

Here's the article: http://news.aol.com/story/_a/coaches-prospects-say-faith-can-factor/n20080204162109990070?ecid=RSS0001.

Lastly, for now, a Christian article about a Christian outreach by Tennessee women's soccer goalkeeper Molly Baird and forward Sarah Van Sickle: http://www.aia.com/news.aspx?newsitem=267.

more Super Bowl, football, and MLB

Hello! Only one more day til the Super Bowl! Staying with that topic, here's a list that I've compiled of players and coaches on the Giants and Patriots that are Christians. I've compiled this list from articles and things from BP Sports (http://www.bpsports.net/) and Sports Spectrum (http://www.sportsspectrum.com/). I don't know if this is a complete list, and I definitely hope that it isn't and that there are actually more Christians on each team. Here's the Christians that I do know of on the Patriots: Ben Watson (tight end), Rosevelt Colvin (linebacker), Chris Hanson (punter), Kyle Brady (tight end), Heath Evans (fullback), Richard Seymour (defensive lineman), Junior Seau (linebacker), Kevin Faulk (runningback), Mike Woicik (strength and conditioning coach), Don Davis (assistant strength and conditioning coach and team chaplain), Dean Pees (defensive coordinator), and Josh McDaniels (offensive coordinator). The Christians that I know of on the Giants are Tank Daniels (linebacker), David Tyree (wide receiver), Reggie Torber (linebacker), Steve Spagnuolo (defensive coordinator), Jerry Palmieri (strength and conditioning coach), and Dave Merritt (secondary coach). I will include more on most of these players and coaches in this and the next posts.

Also, when double-checking the spelling of Rosevelt Colvin's name I happened upon his personal website: http://www.r59.com/index.php.

Here's an interesting article about Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, and his decision to come back and coach the Colts this year while his family is living in Florida. The article talks to some Christian family experts and some people who have lived away from their family for work or their spouse did. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080127/SPORTS03/801270418/1058/SPORTS03.

Next, an article about new Braves pitcher Tom Glavine, and how he put his terrible start for the Mets in the final game of last season into perspective. The loss lost the division for the Mets, and the media and Mets fans were upset with Glavine because he didn't seem upset enough about it. When asked if he was devastated, he said no, just disappointed, which wasn't enough for them. He later said that it was one of the worst moments of his career, but that there are worse things in life than playing poorly in baseball. He compared it to a friend of his 11-year-old son who is losing his leg from cancer. I thought that this was a great article about how sometimes fans and the media think that a bad performance in sports is the end of the world, when really there are a lot worse things in the world. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080127&content_id=2356949&vkey=news_nym&fext=.jsp&c_id=nym&partnered=rss_nym.
Also, a good article about new Baylor head football coach Art Briles, a Christian, and how losing his parents in a car accident while he was in college has effected the rest of his life: http://www.statesman.com/sports/content/sports/stories/other/01/27/0127briles.html (originally found at: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/012808aac.html).

Here's a Christian article about Patriots tight end Ben Watson and the importance of faith and family in his life. Here's a good quote from him:

Watson's career is approaching its zenith, yet as he has established himself as a respected member of the Patriots, he simultaneously has answered the call of his faith. Last week, while his teammates enjoyed a three-day hiatus from football, Watson formally kicked off his "One More" Foundation, created to promote educational and enrichment opportunities through charitable programs.

"So much of football relates to Christian life - sacrifice, commitment, discipline," said Watson. "I know God has a plan for me. I don't know what it is. After football? Who knows? My grandmother and my father always said I would end up as a missionary. Well, I feel like I am one now."

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/stories/2008/01/28/0129_watson.html.

Next, an article about former Braves outfielder and Falcons safety Brian Jordan's daughter Briana, who is a star basketball player at Greater Atlanta Christian School in Atlanta. I don't know anything about their faith other than the fact she's going to the Christian school, but I thought that I would include this anyway: http://www.ajc.com/highschool/content/sports/highschool/stories/2008/01/28/hsgirlfeature_0129g.html.

Here's an article about how Christianity at least seems to have had an effect on the new NFL Personal Conduct Policy that was put in place last year, although the NFL would never admit it. Also, the article tells about several Christian events being held in the Phoenix area in conjunction with the Super Bowl: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5753.

Also, an article about Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker, and his unlikely rise to being an important player on the Patriots because of his lack of size. Again, I don't know anything about his faith, but here's a great quote from his mom Shelley:

... They pray for him a few blocks up the road, in the Welker home, that he'll be safe among 300-pounders and 6-foot-3 burners who belong in the league.

Here, they always believed Wes belonged, too.

"It was all part of God's plan, and we know that," Shelley says. "It worked out just like it was supposed to."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs07/news/story?id=3214646.

Here's an article about Yankees outfielder Johnny Damon receiving an award because of his work with an organization that helps soldiers wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3218378&campaign=rss&source=ESPNHeadlines.

Next, an article about Phillies shortstop and reigning NL MVP Jimmy Rollins, a Christian, being named the Most Outstanding Pro Athlete by the Philadelphia SportsWriters Association: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080128&content_id=2358360&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Broncos Pro-Bowl safety John Lynch, a Christian, considering retirement: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3219465&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines.

Also, an article about Giants wide receiver Dominek Hixon, who was hit by Bills tight end Kevin Everett early this season and causing Everett to sustain a severe neck injury. It was originally thought that Hixon would be paralyzed, if he survived. However, with the help of cutting-edge technology Everett is walking again. Although the injury wasn't Hixon's fault and there was nothing that he could have done to have prevented it, he still felt guilty. Hixon was playing for the Broncos then, but later this season was released an signed by the Giants. The two didn't know each other before the incident, but have since gotten together and became friends. Here's a quote about the hit:

As Hixon ran with the football, a powerful force crashed into him, a hit like he had never felt before.

"It was probably the hardest hit I ever had to take," Hixon said Tuesday during the Giants' Media Day activities here for Super Bowl XLII.

Hixon said he was dazed. But then he saw Everett down. And he didn't see him get up. When the ambulance came to take Everett away, Hixon prayed. He knew it was bad.

Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10607339/rss.

Lastly, for now, an article about Dodgers pitcher Derek Lowe speaking to kids about skin cancer and the importance of sun screen, after he had a cancerous tumor removed from his nose five years ago: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080129&content_id=2358736&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

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.

more NFL, MLB, basketball, etc.

Hi again! Here's the second post for the weekend. First, some articles on Colts head coach Tony Dungy deciding to return for at least one more year (Yeah!) last Monday. Here's a quote about how Dungy came to his decision:

During the past several days at their Tampa, Fla., home, the Dungys weighed the pros and cons of being divided, of Tony being a thousand miles away in Indy while Lauren looked after four kids in Tampa.

They talked, prayed, sought advice from their pastor and some of Dungy's current and former players.

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080122/SPORTS03/801220374/1247/NLETTER12.

The other two articles are about Colts associate coach Jim Caldwell, a Christian, who will become the Colts coach when Dungy does decide to retire. Here's a quote from him about why he decided to do what he did:

Over the past three years, Jim Caldwell has spoken with Buffalo, Minnesota, Arizona, Dallas, Baltimore and Atlanta about their head coaching vacancies. They called because he was an attractive candidate.

He was shrewd enough to recognize an attractive job. Home was the place to hang his hat.

"Typically you go into a situation where you have to restructure, rebuild, etc.," Caldwell said Monday, when he was formally introduced as the Indianapolis Colts' associate head coach. "Here's an opportunity that doesn't come along very often, so I really feel blessed."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080122/SPORTS03/801220350.

The other article has some more on Caldwell: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=Ak6id1n7I35Jx5ngf3kib_B.T4h4?slug=ap-colts-caldwell&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's an article on recently retired Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian, who's back to working with his family NASCAR team, Joe Gibbs Racing. He formed the racing team after he retired as Redskins head coach the first time, and one of his sons took over control of the team when Gibbs went back to the Redskins. Here's a quote from him about returning to racing:

``The whole time I was in football, we knew football was going to be for a limited amount of time,'' Gibbs said. ``And we knew, hopefully and Lord willing, racing was going to be forever. We want this to be something we continue into the future.''

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/news;_ylt=AgjMJpH2xG7lW5AeuziW3fB.T4h4?slug=ap-nascar-gibbs&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Next, an article on retired Tigers broadcaster Ernie Harwell, a Christian, who celebrated his 90th birthday last Friday. Here's a quote from him about what he thinks has allowed him to live so long:

When it comes to his longevity, how high is fitness on the list of important factors?

"That would be in the top one or two or three, I would say," Ernie says. "I'd say diet and physical fitness and mental attitude would be the three top things."

Any big dos or don'ts on diet?

"My biggest don't is I don't eat a lot of fats and sugars," Ernie says. "But I have a tendency to break over once in a while and have a dessert.

"I don't drink alcohol because I don't like it that much and I don't want to expend all my calories on it. It's sort of an empty kind of thing as far as nutrition is concerned.

"I stay away from bread as much as I can. My big bugaboo is going to a restaurant and they bring out the bread and butter before they serve you. It's a great temptation to load up on that before they bring the entrée."

As for attitude, Ernie says, "The greatest thing is my trust in God. I know that whatever happens is for the best, and I try not to worry about anything, because worrying is a sin and He's going to take care of me."

Here's a quote from him about keeping busy since he retired:

These days, Ernie is more than fulfilling what he said in his farewell to his radio audience on the final day of the 2002 season, moments after he called the Tigers game that marked the end of his run as a full-time announcer:

"I'm not leaving, folks. I'll still be with you, living my life in Michigan, my home state, surrounded by family and friends. ... Now God has a new adventure for me. And I'm ready to move on."

Here's the article (including a video): http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080122/SPORTS02/801220365/0/COL01 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/113). Also, here's a link to his website: http://www.eharwell.com/ (originally found in Sports Spectrum's Power Up!).

Here's an article about Virginia high school wrestler Nathan Shuler, a Christian, who's following in the footsteps of his dad and two older brothers in wrestling. The four of them have gone on wrestling mission trips to southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia. Here's the article: http://www.newsadvance.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=LNA/MGArticle/LNA_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173354306184&path=!sports.

Also, an article about the MLB Players Trust giving time and money to help out the victims of Tropical Storm Noel in the Dominican Republic: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080123&content_id=2353697&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Here's a touching article about Northwestern forward Kevin Coble, who set out the first semester to be at home in Arizona with his mom while she was undergoing chemotherapy treatments for breast cancer. He came back in time for their first Big Ten Conference game in January, and has been their leading scorer. Here's the article: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/bigten/2008-01-22-Coble_N.htm?csp=34.

Next, another touching article, this one about how the New York Giants have been inspired this season by an injured army veteran. Lt. Col. Greg Gadson, who is still undergoing treatments for injuries that he suffered in Iraq, spoke the team early this season. The team was so inspired by what he said that it helped turn around their season and they've kept in touch with him. He and his son were on the sidelines when the Giants beat the Packers last Sunday. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-twoquestions012308&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Here's an article about MLB free agent Mike Sweeney, a Christian who has spent his entire career so far with the Royals, being awarded the Hutch Award which "is presented annually to the MLB player who 'best exemplifies the fighting spirit and competitive desire' of the late Fred Hutchinson, a former Major League pitcher and manager from Seattle." He was also taken on a tour of the Hutchinson Center. Here's a quote from him about it:

"I work out and go to church regularly with a couple of previous Hutch Award winners, Mark Loretta [2006] and Trevor Hoffman ['04], so I pretty much knew what this award is all about," Sweeney said.

"But it's different when you actually go to the Center. The research being done there is amazing."

A five-time American League All-Star, the 34-year-old Sweeney has been active in Kansas City's Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities program, and also started the Sweeney Family Foundation, which encourages people of Catholic faith to work with youth and families through a variety of urban-outreach missions, including youth baseball camps.

"I have always done my best on the field, but what I do off the field is just as important," he said.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080123&content_id=2354075&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Lastly, an article about former Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron, a Christian, being hired as the Ravens offensive coordinator: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AnCSyynhRXV3N4xbVs7bjto5nYcB?slug=ap-ravens-cameron&prov=ap&type=lgns.

MLB, football, and basketball

Hi. Here's the second half of my posts this weekend. First of all, an article on White Sox designated hitter Jim Thome raising money for the Children's Hospital of Illinois: http://chicago.whitesox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080113&content_id=2344771&vkey=news_cws&fext=.jsp&c_id=cws (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080116&content_id=2347477&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Here's an article about the nominees for the Bart Starr Award given out annually at the Athletes in Action Super Bowl Breakfast. This year's nominees are Bears wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad, Chargers runningback LaDainian Tomlinson,and Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner. The award "honors NFL players who show exemplary character and leadership in the home, on the field, and in the community". Here's the article: http://www.aia.com/news.aspx?newsitem=261.

Next, a few articles about Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, who is considering retiring to spend more time with his family and on his many other ventures. As much as I'd love to see him stay, as both a Christian and a big Colts fan, I can totally understand if he decided to retire. The first article is about the players on the team and how much they want Dungy to return, but they would also understand if he didn't: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080114/SPORTS03/801140373.

The second article about Dungy's decision (the Indianapolis Star has ran articles every day this week I think) is about Dungy's decision itself. Here's a quote from Dungy about how he's making his decision:

"We'll probably do a lot of praying about what we want to do," Dungy said Monday afternoon. "We'll probably come to some decision this weekend and be ready to move forward on Monday one way or the other.

"It's really just making sure that I'm doing the best job I can do as a dad, and I do think that is my No. 1 job. And if I'm doing that, can I still do enough to be a good coach for the Colts? If I think I can, I'll be back."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080115/SPORTS03/801150404/1247/NLETTER12.

The last article on Dungy, for now, is his blog post about the season and his decision from last Tuesday. Here's a quote from him:

So many people want to know what I am going to do next year and most of the media believe I have made up my mind already. They don't believe me when I say that my wife and I will sit down this week and talk and pray about what is best for our family. But that is what we're going to do. I really enjoy coaching and wish I could do it forever, but I do know that God has placed a family in my care and I have a responsibility to them first. So we'll reach a family decision this weekend.

Here's the post: http://www.mycolts.net/tonydungy/blogentry/49dac150-6d51-426c-a85d-67f8aef57573.

Also, an article on Purdue women's basketball player Lauren Mioton publishing a recipe book to help her hometown of New Orleans: http://www.bigtennetwork.com/news/article.asp?LIST_ID=1&STORY_ID=13870.

Here's another article about a fund-raiser for New Orleans, this one with Heat center Shaquille O'Neal and Saints runningback Reggie Bush teaming up for a fund-raiser during the NBA All-Star Game weekend in New Orleans: http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=Ai5Y_85Gi9RMvzrRNA8aeld.T4h4?slug=ap-oneal-bushparty&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Next, an article about former Pirates and Braves 1st baseman Sid Bream, a Christian, re-joining the Pirates organization as a coach with their Class-A State College team: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10578914/rss.

Here's an article about University of Buffalo head football coach Turner Gill, a Christian, signing a contract extension to stay with the team: http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegefootball/story/10578894/rss.

Also, an article about the girl that got booed last Sunday at the Colts game when she was recognized for winning her age group of the Punt, Pass, and Kick competition. Why was she booed? She was wearing a Patriots jersey, the team that she was representing and the hated rival of the Colts. Patriots owner Robert Kraft got upset and invited the girl, Anna Grant, to be honored before the Patriots home game tomorrow afternoon. It's a nice gesture, but anything Patriots is going to be booed in Indiana regardless. And she realized that it was the jersey, not her. Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs07/news/story?id=3198479.

Here's a good article by former MLB outfielder Doug Glanville about fear in sports and life, and how it sometimes drives people to do anything to succeed: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/16/opinion/16glanville.html?_r=1&oref=slogin (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080118&content_id=2350277&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Next, some articles about Christian MLB players signing new contracts this week. First, a couple of articles about Tigers pitcher Nate Robertson and his new deal: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=As.rEICINK7WfqWWrtfWeNE5nYcB?slug=ap-tigers-robertson&prov=ap&type=lgns and http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5746. Other Christian players include the Braves Mark Teixeira (http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080117&content_id=2349888&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl) and Matt Diaz (http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080118&content_id=2350763&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl), and the Rockies Matt Holliday and Willie Taveras (http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080118&content_id=2350393&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col).

Here's an article about Colts coach Jim Caldwell, also a Christian, who is apparently next in line to become the Colts head coach whenever Tony Dungy decides to retire, should it be this year or in the future: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080117/SPORTS03/801170498/1058/SPORTS03.

Also, an article about Florida men's basketball head coach Billy Donovan, a Christian, and how much he's enjoying coaching his young team this year. He's had to completely start over without his whole starting line-up from his two-time defending national championship teams. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaab/news;_ylt=AgQQqtJ8euO9t4QN6qODXZw5nYcB?slug=jn-donovan011708&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Lastly, an article about Rockies pitcher Jeremy Affeldt, a Christian, signing as a free agent with the Reds today: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080119/SPT04/301190047/1071/.

football, basketball, MLB, etc.

Hello! I'm going to have to once again split the articles that I have into two posts this weekend. I just have trouble finding time to post during the week.

First of all, here's a great article about Jaguars quarterback David Garrard, a Christian. Here's a quote about him and having to go through treatment for Crohn's disease:

Garrard admits that, through quarterback controversies and physical setbacks, it hasn't always been easy to stay positive - to remain, as he calls it, a "good teammate."

One test came in 2004, when he had surgery for Crohn's disease, a painful inflammation of the intestines. He takes medication every eight weeks, a 3?-hour procedure; his next appointment is Tuesday, three days after playing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the playoffs tonight.

"It's a horrible disease, something that a lot of people are affected by," he says. "But I think the Lord blessed me with it, so I could talk about it."

To Mary Garrard, her husband's Christian faith is a key to both his personality and his playing style. "About 95 percent of his temperament comes from his faith," she says. "We're both Christians: There's a higher power, God is in charge of everything, there's no reason to worry about anything."

Here's the article: http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/010508/met_231653371.shtml (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/15).

Here's a great article on the importance of prayer and their Christian faith for several players on the Packers. Those mentioned as Christians in the article are defensive ends Aaron Kampman and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, wide receiver James Jones, and head coach Mike McCarthy. Here's some quotes from Kampman on the topic:

It's not a stretch, then, to wonder about the team in the other locker room and logically ask, why isn't God a fan of their team?

"I do believe that God is sovereign and he does orchestrate or know what's going on, yes,'' said Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman, the acknowledged spiritual leader of the team. "Do I think that God cheers more for one team than the other? No.

"I think that our ways are on his ways. So the outcome of a game, while very, very important, could be part of his plan to achieve something. But a loss could do that. It's a lot bigger than trying to put God in a box for the NFL playoffs. It's the other way around. Everything filters down from God.'' ...

No one knows what will transpire at Lambeau on Saturday, but Kampman is sure of one thing: If you're looking for assistance from above at this point, you're either too late or just don't understand.

"This is my opinion, but I think if a person turns it up more, maybe they didn't understand the principles from the beginning,'' he said. "I go back to a verse in Colossians (3:23) that says 'Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as though you were working for the Lord and not for men.'

"To me what that means is applying that to all aspects of your life, my marriage, this job here, my parenting. Work at it with all your heart. Not for the external outcomes that men will give you but for your internal gratitude for what you've been given."

Also, here's a quote about McCarthy:

Kampman leads a Bible study group on Thursdays in the team's defensive meeting room. On the eve of the game, a half-hour interdenominational chapel service will be held in the team hotel — usually led by someone associated with Athletes in Action — and then a full Catholic mass. That the mass begins 4½ hours before kickoff is a tradition handed down through the years.

The two services used to coincide but Baraniak said since Mike McCarthy, an Irish Catholic, has become head coach, the two are separated so he can attend both.

"He wants to hear what the team is hearing,'' said [team chaplain Rev. James] Baraniak, adding McCarthy uses bits and pieces from both services and weaves them into his address to the team each week.

"He pulls it all together so beautifully.''

Here's the article: http://www.postcrescent.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080110/APC0101/801100589/1979 (originally found at: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5741).

Next, an article about a great program that the Diamondbacks have began for the upcoming season. They are giving season ticket "scholarships" for families that apply and are having hard times. Here's the article: http://www.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10571485 (originally found at: http://www.sportsspectrum.com/daily/archives/080114.php).

Here's a Christian article about Cowboys cornerback Anthony Henry, who grew up in the projects of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Here's a quote about his life:

Henry has come a long way from the mean streets of Michigan Links Court. When you survive the perils he did, life is all about perspective. Playing football is good. Being alive is better. Being alive in Christ is best.

“Growing up like that made me realize a totally different relationship with God and being thankful for what you’ve got,” he said. “Being a pro athlete with money, sometimes you take it for granted. But I want to stay focused and know that God has blessed me to be where I am, but that I also need to care for other people.”

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5740.

Also, a good article about how Baylor men's basketball head coach Scott Drew, a Christian, has helped turn around the men's basketball program after one of the worst team scandals in NCAA sports history. It was especially bad since Baylor is a Baptist college. Here's a quote from athletic director Ian McCaw, also a Christian:

"People were still shocked from the scandal when I got here," said McCaw, a Baptist deacon whose faith and belief in Baylor's mission convinced him to leave his post as athletic director at Massachusetts, his alma mater. "The hardest thing to overcome was the morale. It was incredibly low."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=oneil_dana&id=3189351.

Here's a good article about recently retired Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian, and why he decided to retire to spend more time with his family: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/11/AR2008011102493_2.html?hpid=topnews.

Next, an article about Cowboys outside linebacker Greg Ellis, a Christian, being awarded The Associated Press 2007 NFL Comeback Player of the Year last week. He won the award after coming back this season from an Achilles injury to be a huge part of the Cowboys defense. Here's a couple of quotes from him about it:

"It's been great," Ellis said. "I thank God for blessing me, letting me get out there and have a good support group, starting from the doctors. We have good people here, the coaches have done a good job working me back into it. They've been telling me 'You're fine, you're fine.' It was just getting the confidence to get out there and do it." ...

"Guys will tell you the correct thing -- you don't seek after those awards," Ellis said. "But when you're blessed to get any award on a national level ... our (linebackers) coach, Paul Pasqualoni, says the respect of the game is one of the reasons everybody in the NFL plays. And he's right.

"So once you've got the respect of everybody in the country, if you will, at doing something -- whether it's for your efforts on coming back or for your just play on the field, whatever it is -- it's a great award to get, obviously."

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=ArMpT1RfAGTjMifg3YncDXc5nYcB?slug=ap-comebackplayer&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's an article about the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Chick-fil-A Senior Bowl Rally, one of the largest FCA rallies in the nation, that is held next weekend in conjunction with the Senior Bowl. Two of the featured speakers at the event are also participants in the game -- Alabama All-SEC defensive end Wallace Gilberry and Auburn All-SEC defensive end Quentin Groves. Here's the article: http://www.seniorbowl.com/2008/news/2008fca.htm (originally found at: http://www.fca.org/).

Also, an article about Colts owner Jim Irsay offering Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, some flexibility if Dungy would decide to return as coach. Irsay would be willing to give Dungy more time off to travel to visit his family in Tampa, etc. That's how badly Irsay wants Dungy to return. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080113/SPORTS03/301130019/1058/SPORTS03.

Here's an article about Tigers outfielder Magglio Ordonez starting a scholarship program for college-bound high-schoolers from a section of Detroit: http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080113/SPORTS02/80113080/0/BUSINESS01 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/113).

Next, an article about the Detroit Ignition of the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) helping to raise money for a couple who's home was destroyed and they were injured. The couple, Dave and Jan Goble, are also raising their grandchildren. Lions wide receiver Mike Furrey, a Christian, was also at the game and donated one of his jerseys to a silent auction for some of the money that was raised. Here's a quote from Dave Goble:

"God is providing all of our needs," Dave Goble said.

Here's the article: http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080113/CFP02/801130452/1057/SPORTS (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/11).

Lastly, an article about a children's book that former Braves outfielder and Falcons player Brian Jordan has written, called "I Told You I Can Play". Here's a quote from him telling what the book is about, and it sounds like it should be pretty good:

"It's about believing in yourself," Jordan told the group before he began reading.

The story is about young Brian, who wants to play with his brothers, who don't allow him to because they think he is too young. They do everything they can to avoid him until one day he gets a chance. Brian not only plays, but scores a touchdown.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080113&content_id=2344870&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl.

Gibbs, Dungy, football, baseball, and basketball

Hi. Here's the second post for the weekend. First, some articles on former Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian, who retired last week to spend more time with his family. Here's a good note about the news conference from Sports Spectrum's The Daily:

THE REAL JOE: If you caught the press conference in which Joe Gibbs announced the reasons for his retirement, you got the clear picture of a man with a deep faith in God and His direction in his life. But if you didn’t see that and just read published reports about Gibbs’ retirement, you wouldn’t know how important faith is to him. That part get left out of nearly every report about Gibbs. What was mentioned was his love and concern for family, which is a good thing. But that love of family comes from Gibbs’ solid faith and Christian convictions. That’s what he said, but for most reporters, the essence of Joe Gibbs wasn’t important enough to write about.

Here's the webpage: http://www.sportsspectrum.com/daily/archives/080109.php.

Along those lines, here's a link to an article with video of the news conference last Tuesday if you would like to watch it, but it's kind of long--around half an hour I think--so I only watched the first part of six: http://www.wusa9.com/news/regional/story.aspx?storyid=67065.

Instead I found a transcript from the news conference, and here's the quote from near the end of the press conference referred to in the quote from The Daily:

... The last thing I want to say, it has been amazing for me to experience the fact that- we serve such a wonderful God that looks down and most cases takes a very average person, a physical education major in my case, with ballroom dancing and hand ball, and blesses him with some of the greatest experiences anybody could every have on earth. I have been blessed beyond belief. I want to say thanks to the Lord for letting me be a part of this and I want to say a personal thanks to all of you."

Here's the article: http://www.redskins.com/news/newsDetail.jsp?id=33975.

Here's a Christian article about Gibbs retiring from the Saved in Sports blog, and a quote about Gibb's Youth For Tomorrow center:

Joe Gibbs is known as a hard working man of faith, both on and off the field. An outspoken Christian, he has mentored hundreds of players in more than just field plays, but life itself. His passion for providing a strong foundation for young people led Gibbs to found the Youth For Tomorrow center in nearby Manassas, Virginia, a “residential program combining character rehabilitation, quality education, personal faith, and life skills,” according to the mission statement. Since opening in 1986, Youth for Tomorrow has served 800 young people. The campus includes several specialized schools, a library, gymnasium, computer labs, auditorium, and more.

Here's the article: http://savedinsports.wordpress.com/2008/01/08/washington-redskins-to-move-on-without-joe-gibbs/. Here's the Youth For Tomorrow website: http://www.youthfortomorrow.org/.

Next, here's the general news article about Gibbs' retirement: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080108/ap_on_sp_fo_ne/fbn_redskins_gibbs_resigns.

Here's a good sports column from the Washington Post about Gibbs too: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/08/AR2008010804885.html?sid=ST2008010804632&sub=new.

Also, here's an article about Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Webb, a Christian, and the community work that he's involved in through his Brandon Webb K Foundation and the Diamondbacks in Arizona: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080109&content_id=2342454&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's a good blog post about NC State women's basketball head coach Kay Yow, a Christian, and her upbeat attitude during her fight with cancer. Here's a good quote:

As we all know, Yow is fighting a terrible foe every day. She never takes off the "armor"-- made up of her faith, her hope, her positive attitude. That armor has served her well so far.

Here's the post: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?name=ncwexperts&entryDate=20080109.

Next, a Q and A article with Washington State guard Taylor Rochestie, a Christian, talking about how well the team has done so far this season and his giving up his scholarship for next year so that they could use it for someone else: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=335345.

Here's a couple of articles on the possible retirement of Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, after this season. Unfortunately, the Colts just lost in the playoffs this afternoon to the Chargers, so now the Dungy watch is on I guess. The first article is a good one from the Indianapolis Star, and here's a quote:

It might not be enough. One of the most successful coaches in NFL history wants to be so much more.

Dungy has been involved in a prison ministry program in Tampa for several years and has devoted himself to All Pro Dad, a branch of the Tampa-based Family First. His book, Quiet Strength, recently sold its 1 millionth copy. When Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor was shot and killed in November, Dungy spoke of the need for people in positions of influence to address a culture of violence that seems so pervasive among today's youth.

On the other hand, Dungy allows that "there's a vehicle to get that message out, and the NFL's a pretty good vehicle."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080110/SPORTS03/801100425/1247/NLETTER12.

Here's the other article, which gives some updated news about the Dungy retirement rumors: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=ArfW.TBnXvSah30L59.9ZEV.T4h4?slug=ap-colts-dungysfuture&prov=ap&type=lgns. More on Dungy another day.

Also, a couple of articles about MLB players will be receiving Thurmon Munson Awards. The awards will be given to recently retired Astros 2nd baseman Craig Biggio and Yankees outfielder Melky Cabrera, along with Mets 3rd baseman David Wright, Knicks guard Jamal Crawford, and Olympic gold medal-winning figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi. The award is for "excellence in competition and philanthropic work within the community." Here's the Biggio article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080110&content_id=2343257&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb, and here's the Cabrera one: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080110&content_id=2343441&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Bills tight end Kevin Everett, who sustained a severe neck injury the first game of the season and is now miraculously walking on his own. Last week, he spoke at the football banquet at his high school, Memorial, in Port Arthur, Texas, to thank everyone for their support during his rehabilitation. Here's a quote from him about it:

"I feel blessed entirely," Everett said Thursday before addressing the Memorial High School football banquet. "I deal with some pain sleeping but not to the point where I can't sleep. I take my medicine and I'm good to go."

Here's a quote from New Mexico quarterback Donovan Porterie, who was also attending the banquet:

"Every night, especially in that first week, I was offering up a prayer after I heard about his injury," Porterie said. "It was all over ESPN and the NFL Network and being from Port Arthur, it was a real big blow ... a real heartbreaker."

"So it meant a lot to see a guy of his status to bounce back and be here like this," he said. "It was a big lift. Jesus came through and delivered him from his obstacle."

Here's a quote from Everett's friend and Memorial offensive coordinator Kenny Harrison:

"This guy is amazing," Harrison said. "Kevin has taught me two things. First, he's taught me that nothing is too bad and second, that with God you can overcome anything."

Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10569837/rss.

Next, an article about Mariners pitcher Chris Reitsma, a Christian, signing a minor league contract with the team since he's coming off an injury: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AsB1_FEIAPyO4Y9qrD.sJFt.T4h4?slug=ap-mariners-reitsma&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Lastly, last night there was a great interview segment with Jaguars quarterback David Garrard and his wife, both Christians, before they lost to the Patriots. At least three times during the interview Garrard said "a lot of prayer".