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.

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.

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.

football, MLB, etc.

Hi. Here's some more articles, and I'll try to post as many as I can today. First of all, a couple of articles about Falcons runningback Warrick Dunn reaching 10,000 yards for his career on Thanksgiving against the Colts. This article includes about his charity, Homes for the Holidays, which helps to provide homes for single mothers (click on the link in the article for pictures of one such house). The article also mentions how excited Dunn was for Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, to be there to see it, since Dungy was Dunn's first coach when they were both with the Buccaneers. Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/falcons/stories/2007/11/23/falside_1123.html.

The other article is a blog post from Tony Dungy about the game, and he had this to say about getting to be there to see Dunn's 10,000 yard:

... So it was great for me to see him reach that milestone personally, and I think the Lord set it up to happen on a night when I was present.

Here's the post: http://www.mycolts.net/tonydungy/blogentry/8a8b15b6-c516-440b-955c-5a25e9c1c129.

Next, an article about the Mississippi State football team and their head coach Sylvester Croom, a Christian. They have a good chance of making a bowl game this year, with the bowl announcements tonight. Here's a quote about Croom from their athletic director Larry Templeton:

The other thing going for the Bulldogs is Croom. Widely regarded as one of the true gentlemen in the game, there's a significant amount of sentiment around the country that would love to see the first black coach in SEC history make it to a bowl game.

"I think all of those come into play. I'd be naive if I didn't think that," Templeton said. "What I have sensed happening is that everybody is pulling for this guy to be successful. Not because he's the black football coach. Because of the integrity and character of the man and the way he's gone about doing it."

Here's the article: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/112307aah.html.

Here's a good Christian article about Tigers 1st base coach Andy Van Slyke from The Christian Sports Blog. Here's a good quote from him:

As a Christian and a father, he has learned how to keep the game of baseball in perspective.

"A lot of times throughout the year we have a tendency to put baseball on the throne," Van Slyke said. "But as Christians, that's the battle. We have to ask ourselves who's going to be on the throne today."

Here's the article: http://christiansportsblog.blogspot.com/2007/11/andy-van-slyke-making-impact.html.

Also, an article about star track and field sprinter Allyson Felix, a Christian, who was also nominated for the Sportsman of the Year Award from Sports Illustrated: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/magazine/specials/sportsman/2007/11/08/layden.felix/.

Here's an article about Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker, who is having a break out year in his first year with the Patriots. Here's a good quote from his dad, Leland:

Leland and Shelley know the only sure way to cover their son.

"We cover him in prayer," Leland says.

Here's the article: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/patriots/2007-11-23-sw-wes-welker_N.htm.

Next, an article about Lions kicker Jason Hanson, a Christian, and his television acting debut on a local kids TV show in Michigan: http://www.mlive.com/sports/grpress/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/119578650616020.xml&coll=6 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/11).

Here's an article on former Braves outfielder Otis Nixon and his recovery from drug abuse. In turning his life around he became a Christian and is now working on becoming an ordained minister. It's kind of ironic having articles from both Nixon and Van Slyke in this post, since Nixon's best known for his home-run-saving catch of a ball hit by Van Slyke, who was then playing for the Pirates, in the early 1990's. Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/atlanta/stories/2007/11/25/whatever_1126_web.html.

Also, an article about Cowboys linebacker Greg Ellis, a Christian, and his getting better with age: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=310109.

Here's an article about Tigers outfielder Curtis Granderson speaking to student athletes at Southern Methodist University: http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071125/SPORTS02/711250650/1050 (originally found at: http://mlbplayers.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071126&content_id=2307411&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Lastly, an article about Illinois defensive player J Leman, a Christian, being named a finalists for the Lott Trophy, which honors the college football Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year: http://www.bigtennetwork.com/news/article.asp?LIST_ID=1&STORY_ID=10086.

Okay, that's all for now, I'll post more when I can.

football, Rockies, misc.

Hi! First of all, an article about the impact that the Facing the Giants movie has made world-wide, 1 year after it was released. If you haven't seen this movie, I strongly recommend it. It's one of my all-time favorites. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5684.

Here's an article about former Falcons wide receiver Eric Beverly and his wife Danielle, who is fighting breast cancer for the third time. She was miraculously able to have a baby normally after going through cancer treatments twice, but not long before the baby, Lia, was born in June, the lumps returned. Here's a quote from Danielle about it:

"God gave me cancer at a young age so we could make a difference," says Danielle, who is 33, as is her husband. "I beat this the first two times, and I am going to see Lia graduate, get married and have children. I will be a 45-year cancer survivor.... And I am praying that when she's older there is a cure."

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/health/content/health/stories/2007/10/17/beverly_1018.html?imw=Y.

Next, another article about Rockies manager Clint Hurdle, a Christian, and how he got to this point in his life: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/mlb/article/0,2777,DRMN_23924_5725799,00.html (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/97).

Here's a good article about Rockies scout Will George, whose wife Florinda died from breast cancer in May, and how the Rockies now have an angel looking over them: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071017&content_id=2270509&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col.

Also, staying with the Rockies, an article about Rockies pitcher Matt Herges, a Christian, and his strange path to the Rockies, which included spending a good part of this season with their Triple-A Colorado Springs. No other Major League team would give him a chance last spring, but the Rockies offered him a minor-league contract. He earned his way back to the Majors and has been a big part of the Rockies playoff run. Here's the article (includes video): http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071018&content_id=2271038&vkey=ps2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's a neat article about how MLB donates the T-shirts and hats from the losing teams in each playoff round, and the Wild Card play-in game, to World Vision, a Christian humanitarian organization. World Vision then gives the shirts to people around the world who have lost everything from natural disasters or other reasons. The NFL also does this. I think that this is so neat. If people doesn't have anything to wear, they're not going to care what a shirt says. It's something to wear and they're grateful. The shirts and hats would otherwise just be destroyed. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071018&content_id=2271371&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col.

Next, an inspiring article about Hamilton Southeastern High School (Indianapolis) senior football player Nick Sliger, who has overcome learning disabilities to become eligible to play football at IU next year. He was just going to take a certificate of attendance and not get his degree, but then he started getting recruiting letters from different colleges. So he decided to commit to catching up and taking the classes required for him to go to IU, with help. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071019/SPORTS0202/710190461/1247/SPORTS.

Here's a good Christian article about Danny Lotz, member of the 1957 North Carolina national championship team and husband of Anne Graham Lotz, and Albert Long, a star athlete at North Carolina in the 1950's, and how they started a weekly men's Bible study on the North Carolina campus: http://www.newsobserver.com/105/story/741871.html (originally found at: http://www.fca.org/).

Also, another article about Deanna Favre, the wife of Packers quarterback Brett Favre, who has overcome breast cancer. She has become a speaker about breast cancer, overcoming nerves at an initial speaking engagement at Wisconsin-Madison. Here's a quote from her about it:

"I have come a long way from that Madison talk," she says as she sits in a conference room high above the Lambeau Field atrium. "When I was asked to speak the first time, I said, 'Absolutely not.' But it really tugged at my heart. I think God was telling me, 'You have to do this. This is your calling.'

"I was always one of those skeptical people who'd say, 'All these people who say they have these callings from God, or God told them to move here or move there, how do they know?' Well, now I know. And all I'm doing, really, is telling my story. And who knows it better than me?"

Here's the article: http://www.madison.com/wsj/home/local/index.php?ntid=252149&ntpid=1 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/12).

Here's a Christian note from Wednesday's "The Daily" from Sports Spectrum about Rockies pitcher Aaron Cook:

COOK ON THE MENU: Aaron Cook is just glad to be alive. And now the gets the special bonus of being added to the Colorado roster for the World Series. Cook has been injured since early August, but with his injured side muscle has recovered. So Cook is in and slated to pitch Game 4 for the Rockies. In August 2004, Aaron Cook nearly died. Should have, doctors figured. He was pitching against Cincinnati when he started getting dizzy and nearly blacking out. He was taken from Coors Field to a hospital, where doctors discovered multiple blood clots in his lungs. According to Cook, “The doctors said they didn’t know how I was still alive.” Treatments and two rounds of corrective surgery followed, and Cook returned to the mound in 2005. About this near-tragic medical event, Cook told Sports Spectrum magazine, “It was in God’s hands, and I didn’t have any control over it. Probably the best thing I was told was this: Anything that you don’t have control over is ‘sovereign’—meaning that God has it in control, and we can’t worry about those things. God’s got it in His hands.”

Here's the link: http://www.sportsspectrum.com/daily/archives/071024.php.

Next, an article about Titans linebacker Corey Simon, a Christian, announcing his retirement yesterday: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=ArwcFYeg6G4fxlyiUA6m1Ul.T4h4?slug=ap-titans-simon&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's an article about Cardinals pitcher Mike Maroth, a Christian, being released by the team yesterday: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10431696/rss.

Lastly, an article about Colts center Jeff Saturday, a Christian, giving a talk about healthy eating to kids at Orchard Park Elementary School in Indianapolis this week: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071026/LOCAL0101/71026002/-1/LOCAL17 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/14).

sports misc.

First, a good article about Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070906/COL05/709060327/1009/col05 (originally found at: http://www.aia.com/news.aspx?newsitem=248).

Here's a neat quote from Red Sox pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka about the AL Rookie of the Year race. Matsuzaka and fellow Japanese teammate Hideki Okajima are both considered rookies even though they've pitched in Japan for several years before coming to the U.S. this year. Another Red Sox, 2nd baseman Dustin Pedroia, is a true rookie. Here's what Matsuzaka had to say about it:

"[Matsuzaka] had an interesting answer," [Red Sox manager Terry] Francona said. "[He said], 'I've already been Rookie of the Year.' And he pointed at Pedroia and said, 'That's your Rookie of the Year.' I remember thinking, it was just in passing, but I remember thinking, 'Pretty mature attitude.' I don't want to hurt someone's chances of receiving awards ever, but I loved his attitude."

Matsuzaka was named Rookie of the Year of the Pacific League in 1999, his first year with the Seibu Lions.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070906&content_id=2192614&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos.

Next, an article about Padres catcher Josh Bard, a Christian, and his older brother Mike, the assistant hitting coach for the Rockies. Their teams played against each other last weekend. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070906&content_id=2193692&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's a few articles about the NBA's trip to South Africa last week to help out and teach basketball: http://www.nba.com/global/bwb_africa_warms_up_070905.html, http://www.nba.com/global/bwb_africa_recap_070907.html, and http://www.nba.com/global/bwb_africa_recap2_070907.html. Here's the main page about it: http://www.nba.com/global/africa_bwb_2007.html.

Also, an article about Fever forward Tamika Catchings, a Christian, and the torn Achilles that she suffered in the decisive game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Shock. She should be ready for the next WNBA season, but will miss playing overseas this year. Here's a great quote from her about her recovery from the injury:

"I know God's not done with me yet," she said. "I'm just going to keep pushing forward."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070907/SPORTS/709080304/1004/RSS02.

Here's a couple of injury reports from a couple of Christian MLB players. The first is from Red Sox pitcher Matt Clement, who's trying to get back to pitching by the end of the month after shoulder surgery last September. Here's the article (page down): http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/articles/2007/09/06/lowell_might_be_too_pricey/?page=2.

The other injury report is about Yankees 1st baseman Andy Phillips, who is trying to come back by next month after having wrist surgery to remove a broken bone (page down): http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-spynotes065360848sep06,0,1754696.story.

Next, an article about Colts radio voice Bob Lamey fulfilling the wish of a 93-year-old man by visiting at his nursing home: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070912/SPORTS/709120426/1247/NLETTER12.

Lastly, a note about seriously injured Bills tight end Kevin Everett, who sustained a serious spinal cord injury during the Bills game against the Broncos last Sunday:

EVERETT IMPROVES The word "miracle" is being tossed around regarding the new developments in the ongoing physical battles of Buffalo Bills' tight end Kevin Everett. One day after the doctor who operated on Everett announced that it was unlikely Everett would walk again, things looked remarkably better. As Everett began to awaken partially from his induced sedation, he moved his arms and legs--providing hope for a more complete recovery. The people treating Everett used a new therapy immediately after the injury, one in which he was injected with a cold saline solution to minimize swelling. That may have contributed to the surprising good news just one day after surgery. As did the prayers of thousands.

Here's the webpage: http://www.sportsspectrum.com/daily/archives/070912.php.

To go along with that, here's what Falcons wide receiver Joe Horn had to say about Kevin Everett and his injury:

"Sometimes you need to focus on what's life and what's real," wide receiver Joe Horn said. "After seeing what happened to Kevin, God makes things happen for a reason. My prayers go out to him and his family.

"But you have to sit back sometimes, after playing 11, 12 years and realized that you are blessed. We are blessed to be physically able to play this game."

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/falcons/stories/2007/09/12/falnot_0913.html.

mostly MLB misc., etc.

First, another note about new Padres infielder Morgan Ensberg's (a Christian) thoughts about his first series against his former Astros teammates, this one from the Astros point-of-view: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070817&content_id=2154670&vkey=news_hou&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou.

Here's the results of the Red Sox radio telethon to raise money for a local cancer hospital:

Final Jimmy Fund figure: On Saturday, the results were in. The sixth annual WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon raised more than $3.68 million. Dodgers owner Frank McCourt gave the largest gift, a record $50,000.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070818&content_id=2156041&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, a neat note about Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Webb, a Christian, during his start last Friday in Atlanta against the Braves, a complete game shutout, which was during his 42 consecutive scoreless innings streak:

As he [Webb] stood in the on-deck circle in the ninth inning on Friday, a couple of Braves fans in the front row said to him, "Aren't you getting tired yet?"

Webb told them that he was still feeling good and they told him that they thought he was pitching well, to which he said, "Thank you very much."

The scene took place in front of D-backs CEO Jeff Moorad and team president Derrick Hall, both of whom were amazed that despite the fact that he was in the middle of his streak, Webb still acknowledged the fans.

"Are you kidding me?" Hall said. "That tells you right there what kind of person Brandon Webb is."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070818&content_id=2156366&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's a quote from Cubs 1st baseman/outfielder Daryle Ward about teammate Cliff Floyd after Floyd's father passed away:

"At first, I think I did a little too much thinking," Ward said. "There were a lot of thoughts going on, thinking about Cliff and his family and what was going on there, and feeling sorry in that situation. That's tough -- I thank God I still have my father here. We're sending our prayers out to him. I know it's got to be tough."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/gameday_recap.jsp?ymd=20070818&content_id=2156080&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc&partnered=rss_chc.

Also, a couple of articles about Diamondbacks pitcher Micah Owings huge game at the plate last Saturday. He didn't do that bad pitching (3 runs on 3 homers with 7 strike outs and 0 walks), but that was overshadowed by his hitting. He went 4-5, with 2 homers, 6 RBI's, and 4 runs scored in one of the best offensive games for a pitcher ever. And to make it even better, it was in Atlanta, an hour from his hometown. He had 50 friends and family there to watch him. Here's a couple of quotes from him in an article about the game:

A humble, deeply religious man, Owings is an intense competitor, who is gracious in the time he gives the media, but if you expect him to beat his chest or say something outrageous you'll be disappointed.

"I'm just blessed," Owings said. "Early on in the season I was racking up some 'W's'. I had to learn some things and iron some things out. To be back home and have the game that I did tonight, that's all I can say, I'm unbelievably blessed." ...

"It's up there," he said when asked where this game ranked among all his others. "Maybe one of the best ever. Maybe after it slows down I can reflect a little bit. Right now all I can think is how blessed I am."

Here's that article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/gameday_recap.jsp?ymd=20070818&content_id=2156373&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

The other article about Owings is about him and his family and their reactions to the game. Here's a couple of quotes, one from him and one from his sister Abi:

"I'm a believer, and I just kept praying," Owings said. "I've got a big God, and he did a lot of big things for me tonight." ...

"My favorite part was the part where he pointed up to the sky, because we believe that this is a God thing," Abi said. "We all prayed together before the game, and I think God really helped [Owings] tonight."

Here's that article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070818&content_id=2157530&vkey=news_ari&fext=.jsp&c_id=ari.

Here's an article about Bucks guard Michael Redd, a Christian, who is playing for Team USA in the Tournament of the Americas: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/2007-08-19-reddteamusa_N.htm?csp=34.

Next, an article about new Braves 1st baseman Mark Teixeira, a Christian, on his having to adjust to National League pitching last week after having been traded from the Rangers: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070819&content_id=2158050&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Devil Rays shortstop Ben Zobrist, a Christian, having to go on the disabled list last Sunday: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070819&content_id=2158067&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Also, an article about Braves pitcher John Smoltz, a Christian, setting the Braves all-time franchise career strikeout record: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070819&content_id=2158289&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnered=rss_mlb.
Here's a great note about Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and his legal troubles from Sports Spectrum's "The Daily" this week:

HOPELESS? Imagine for a moment being Michael Vick. Your once charmed life of adulation and fortune is crumbling all around you. Whereas at one time your biggest problem was the occasional naysayer who said you weren't really a quarterback in the truest NFL sense of the term, now you have more problems than a PETA person at a hog auction. Not only do you face the wrath of the public and the decision of a federal judge, but now you also face the prospect that the state of Virginia will come after you with possible further prison time. Your NFL career is pretty much over, and you are so hated by massive groups of people that you can hardly chance going out into public. Imagine having all that against you. Where would be any hope--any reason to lift your head from the pillow and face another day? Hope for Mr. Vick could be found in the same source that rescued Chuck Colson from his Watergate-caused degradation. Or that lifted Josh Hamilton from sure destruction of his career because of drugs. That hope is Jesus Christ--who can forgive anyone, even a dog-abuser. Why not pray for Michael Vick--pray that he will allow someone into his life who can guide him to hope--guide him to Jesus, the light of the world.

Here's the link: http://www.sportsspectrum.com/daily/archives/070822.php.

Lastly, some more on the "Mark Teixeira" song that the two guys at Auburn, Tyler Crawford and Andrew Hall, wrote about the Braves Mark Teixeira. Here's the lyrics to the song from another blog:

Four and a half games back and I don’t Te-care-a
You know why we got Mark Teixeira
Got a new Braves jersey that I’m gonna wear-a
And written on the back is Mark Teixeira
The Mets are scared cause their lead’s gonna narr-a
They’re lookin’ over their shoulder at Mark Teixeira

Chorus:We got Fred McGriff back in ‘93
Hampton’s out cause of injury
Schuerholz smiles cause he is happy and Bobby says,“Let’s go Mark T.”

The National League it just ain’t fair-a
The Atlanta Braves got Mark Teixeira
Chipper and Andruw make a mighty nice pair-a
Let’s make it a trio add Mark Teixeira
A side effect is mild hysteria
The medical reason is Mark Teixeira

Chorus

Bridge:Scott Thorman stinks and Julio is old
What did Shuerholz do? Must’ve sold his Sooouuulll

Pitchers beware cause he’s gonna scare ya
Throw him a strike now if you dare-a
He could probably steal on Yogi Berra(NOT Yogi Bear-a)
Biggest thing in Georgia since Scarlet O’Hara
If I were a woman I’d probably marry ya.

And that’s not gay cause its Mark Teixeira.

Here's the blog post link: http://www.timellsworth.com/?p=2008. Here's the link to the video again, to sing along with: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDHjGrbXiD4.

mostly MLB misc., etc.

First of all, an excellent Christian article on Mississippi State pitcher Justin Pigott. Mississippi State beat Clemson to make it to the College World Series. It includes an audio quote from him. Here's the article: http://clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070608/SPORTS030102/706080345 (originally found at: http://www.aia.com/news.aspx?newsitem=226).

Here's an interesting article about renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews. Here's a quote about him:

On a Sunday in January 2006, Andrews was rushed from church to St. Vincent's with a heart attack....

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/06/10/0611andrews.html.

Next, a quote about Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano, a Christian, and his last start:

Did Zambrano stop pointing his finger to the sky in his latest outing June 6? He definitely seemed less emotional. Have the Cubs told him that his super-heightened emotional state for starts is no longer the way to go?-- Dan G., Louisville, Ky.

Actually, Zambrano did point -- it's his way of thanking God -- but you must have missed it. A Milwaukee reporter actually asked me about that during the game. As for his emotions, Zambrano has had a tough few days, with his birthday blowup in the dugout and tearful meeting with Barrett the next day. Let's hope he can channel his energy into his pitching.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070611&content_id=2019647&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc&partnered=rss_chc.

Here's an article about former boxer, etc. George Foreman and the his new Christian book that was just published: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5603.

Also, an article about former Falcon Greg Brezina and how he became a Christian and changed his life: http://www.beaufortgazette.com/local_sports/story/6546919p-5826391c.html (originally found at: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5604.

Here's an interesting article about the Brewers Gabe Gross, a Christian, and his career as a quarterback at Auburn before switching to only baseball, and other two sport stars on the Brewers: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070611&content_id=2020251&vkey=news_mil&fext=.jsp&c_id=mil.

Next, an article about Cubs outfielder Cliff Floyd and his dad, who's in very poor health in a hospital ICU. That family could probably use some prayers, especially with Father's Day coming up on Sunday. Here's a quote from him about that:

Floyd has not played for the Cubs since Thursday in Atlanta, and had returned to Chicago over the weekend to be at his father's side. Is it hard to concentrate on baseball?

"It's not hard," Floyd said. "My mind is on winning. I can leave my dad where he is. You do a lot of praying and talking to the man upstairs and know it's out of my control. Me sitting there is a good thing because I can keep my eye on things, but in terms of him getting better, it won't help.

"Believe it or not, being around the boys has helped me tremendously," he said of his teammates.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070612&content_id=2021873&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article that I came across just today about Ta'Shia Phillips, who finished her basketball career at Brebeuf Jesuit High School in the Indianapolis area this past season. She won the Marion County High School Female Athlete of the Year Award. At the height of 6'6", she might be one to watch for next year at Xavier. Here's a quote about her from her high school coach Kendall Kreinhagen, when nominating her for the award:

"It's called the County Athlete of the Year, but you've got to look at them as student-athletes, and that's what Ta'Shia is," Kreinhagen said. "She excels on the floor but she also excels off the floor in the community. She helps out through her church, mentoring in youth basketball, and she did what it took to help out our younger players by staying after practice with them.

"She gives back."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070613/SPORTS0217/706130505.

Lastly, a Christian audio interview with Astros 3rd baseman Morgan Ensberg on Sports Spectrum Radio: http://www.rbc.org/radio_and_tv/sports_spectrum/programs/55750.aspx#. Also, here's a link to the Sports Spectrum Insider blog: http://insider.sport.org/.

football, etc.

First of all, an article about the foundation that Falcons defensive tackle Rod Coleman set up to help kids. It includes the address for his website. Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/falcons/content/sports/falcons/stories/2007/03/07/0307coleman.html.

Here's a good article that I found on Georgia Tech football coach Chan Gailey on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes website: http://www.fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2007/032007/03072007/265368.

Next, a good article about the Jaguars Alvin Pearman and Stockar McDougle, former Jaguar Anthony Johnson, and the Panthers Steve Smith going to Africa with Athletes in Action that I found on the Athletes in Action website.: http://www.jaguars.com/news/article.aspx?id=5883.

Here's just a interesting article about Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis where Butler plays. Hinkle is like the Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, or Wrigley Field of high school basketball in Indiana. It was where the high school state finals were played for 50 years and were the state championship game in the movie Hoosiers was filmed. John Wooden played in the first state finals held there, that's how long it's been around! I got to go there 5 years ago to watch my high school's boys' basketball team play in the semi-state, and if you ever get the chance to watch a game there, do. The place just has an aura about it and is an awesome place to watch a game. It still has the old wooden bleachers in the upper level. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070308/SPORTS/703080413&theme=.

Lastly, a couple of Red Sox games to make note of in the upcoming season because of two Christian former Red Sox returning to Fenway. First, May 28 will be the Indians first game in Boston, which means it will be Trot Nixon's first game back at Fenway. I bet he'll get some kind of standing ovation when he comes up to bat for the first time! Also June 15th will be the Giant first game in Boston, so it will be Dave Roberts first game back at Fenway since the 2004 World Series. I bet he'll get a lot of cheers because he became a legend there for his stolen base late in Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS.