MLB, football, and basketball

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

football, basketball, MLB, etc.

Hi. First, a good article about Auburn football chaplain Chette Williams, who is known as the team's "spiritual coordinator" (offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, spiritual coordinator!). The article talks about his life and his new memoir Hard Fighting Soldier. Here's a quote about him from head coach Tommy Tuberville, also a Christian, when he was named Coach of the Year in 2004:

Williams "has made the biggest difference in my life, our coaches' lives, our families' lives and our players' lives than anything I have ever seen," Tuberville said in accepting the award from the American Football Coaches Association.

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/uga/stories/2007/12/31/bowlchaplain_1231.html.

Here's an article on Texas forward Gary Johnson, who was cleared to play this week after doctors checked out a heart problem that was discovered last summer. It was originally feared that he might not be able to play again. Here's a quote from him about being able to play again:

"I feel it's a gift being able to play again," Johnson said Monday as he talked with reporters for the first time. "Right now I'm taking it as that, trying to take every minute as a gift on the court."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=3175273&campaign=rss&source=NCBHeadlines.

Next, a couple of articles about all of the hardships that the Redskins have gone through this season to make it to the playoffs. They've had to deal with injuries to key players, the murder of one of the players, etc. Here's a quote in the first article from head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian:

"I just want to say a big thanks to our fans and our players," Gibbs said. "It was really a testimonial these past four weeks of really just character. The Lord's blessed us with a great group of guys. When you think about what they've gone through this year . . . everybody would have said this is just impossible."

Here's the article: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/sports/articles/1231nflinsider1231.html (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/32).

Here's the second article on the Redskins and Joe Gibbs: http://canadianpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5huhioZ9aocDiie_nAjBKnFONRzyg (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/32).

Also, an article on Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, a Christian, and how winning the Heisman Trophy has created increased attention on him, for better or for worse. Here's a quote from him about that:

In the three weeks since Tebow became the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy he hasn't been able to go anywhere without being swarmed or having his photo taken and flashed around the Internet. He accepts the role-model part of the deal and the scrutiny that comes with it.

"It really makes you think about everything you do, that someone's watching. That's a good and bad thing," said Tebow, whose 29 passing touchdowns and 22 running TDs made him the first player in NCAA Division I-A history to achieve that 20-20 double in the same season.

"Hopefully it's a good thing, that they see things I do and are impressed with and I can influence people for the better. But it can also be a bad thing if you're not careful about what you do."

Here's the article: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-elliott31dec31,1,178156.column?coll=la-utilities-sports&ctrack=3&cset=true (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/209).

Just a note: during the Sugar Bowl on New Year's between Georgia and Hawaii, they showed Georgia's "water wife". Head coach Mark Richt's wife Kathryn (both Christians) and some of their kids fill the team's cups with water and give them out during their games. I just thought that was kind of neat.

Here's an article about former MLB 3rd baseman and new Indians minor league manager Travis Fryman, a Christian, who is eligible for induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame this year. Here's a quote from him about his career:

If part of the measure of a player is the effect he has on his teammates, however, then Fryman can look back on his days in uniform and feel pretty happy. That's how he likes to look at his career, and that's one reason he's giving himself a shot at managing.

"That would be what I am most proud of in my career," Fryman said, "not what I ever did between the chalk lines, but the changes that took place in my life, to the point that I began to care for the men that I played with and try to contribute to their success in life and their careers. Some of those relationships continue even through today.

"When you look back, it is about relationships. For me, those relationships were the most important thing. As athletes, we're limited by what God has given us. It's our responsibility to get the most out of that." ...

Injuries helped prompt him to retire in 2002 at age 33, but the numbers he put up were nothing to easily dismiss. Yet as he prepares to re-enter the rigors of the baseball season as manager of the Indians' short-season Class A club in the New York-Penn League, it's the relationships he values, and the values he wants to pass along to the first-year professionals he'll be leading.

"All I really set out to do," Fryman said, "is get the most out of ability that God gave me, to do it the right way, and to respect the game and guys who came before me. At the end of the day, I felt like I did that."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071219&content_id=2333710&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, an article about Tigers outfielder Curtis Granderson, who is having a fund-raiser for his Grand Kids Foundation, which helps inner-city schools. Some of his teammates are helping him out, including Nate Robertson, a Christian. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080102&content_id=2338008&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article about Redskins assistant head coach Joe Bugel and his daughter Holly, who is fighting a rare form of bone cancer. Here's a quote about her from Bugel's wife Brenda:

"You pray for a miracle," Brenda Bugel said. ...

Here's the article: http://washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080103/SPORTS/735083145/1001&template=nextpage.

Also, an article about Washington State women's basketball coach June Daugherty, who is back coaching after going into cardiac arrest last summer. She had just pulled into the parking lot at a hospital for a doctor's appointment about her heart when it happened, which probably saved her life. Here's a quote from her about it:

"I'm truly blessed to have a second chance in life," Daugherty said.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaw/news;_ylt=AiS9FnH4FDBtezCqR1L9EAV.T4h4?slug=ap-daughertysreturn&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Next, an article about Colts assistant coach Jim Caldwell, a Christian, interviewing for the Falcons head coaching job: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080103/SPORTS03/801030483/1247/NLETTER12.

Here's an article about former Red Sox pitcher Matt Clement, a Christian, signing as a free agent with the Cardinals: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10557449/rss.

Also, an article about Colts center Jeff Saturday, a Christian, being named the NFL Alumni Offensive Lineman of the Year: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=99835dee-b214-4f58-afea-860200994ed2&et_cid=13884153&et_rid=464416201&linkid=http%3a%2f%2fwww.colts.com%2fsub.cfm%3fpage%3darticle7%26news_id%3d99835dee-b214-4f58-afea-860200994ed2.

Lastly, here's the website for professional freeskier Dave Treadway, a Christian: http://www.davetreadway.com/.

MLB, football, and more Tebow

Hi. I'm going to try and send two posts today, I still have so many articles left. First of all, an article about Pirates pitcher Salomon Torres, a Christian, being traded to the Brewers last week. We don't often think about how trades in sports effect the players and their families, but this article mentions how Torres is considering retirement over leaving Pittsburgh and either moving his family to Milwaukee or leaving them in Pittsburgh. Here's a quote from him about that:

"It's a giant move and I have to make a decision if I want to go forward," Torres told the newspaper. "This is going to change my life, my family's life.

"If I leave them here, they're going to have to be without me for a full year. If I take them with me, they're going to be affected."

Torres said he needed some time before making a final decision.

"I just need to talk to my family," he said. "I can tell you this: If I go to Milwaukee, I'm going to give my heart and soul to the Brewers."

Here's the article: http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=694529 (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071210&content_id=2322310&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Here's three articles about the Red Sox Holiday Caravan, which visited several Boston-area children's hospitals in three days. Those that took part in the caravan were pitchers Julian Tavarez, Bryan Corey, Kyle Snyder, outfielder Brandon Moss, bench coach Brad Mills, pitching coach John Farrell, and president/CEO Larry Lucchino. They also brought the World Series Trophy with them too. Here's the article from the first day: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071210&content_id=2322427&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos, the second day: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071211&content_id=2322990&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos, and the third day: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071212&content_id=2323758&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos.

Next, an article about Florida State head football coach Bobby Bowden, a Christian, signing a new contract with indefinite one-year options last week. Also, offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher will succeed him as coach, someday when Bowden retires. Here's the article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071210/ap_on_sp_co_ne/fbc_florida_st_bowden_contract.

Here's another article about Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, a Christian, about him winning the Heisman Trophy recently and the possibility of him winning one or two more. Here's a quote about how winning the award won't affect him as a person:

The people that know him best don't think he'll have any trouble dealing with life as Heisman winner.

If anything, it will help him because it will allow the message he preaches to reach even more people.

"That's how we see it, as God's plan," Tebow's mother Pam said. "He's just had a plan all along, and Timmy's aware of that.

"All of us will sit on him if he does [have trouble dealing with the expectations]. We remind him all the time God gives grace to the humble. He's given you so much grace, don't blow it now."

Tebow is grounded by his faith, his parents and his boyhood idol, 1996 Heisman winner Danny Wuerffel.

Just listen to how he hopes people will remember him as the 2007 Heisman winner.

"You want people to remember you for the way you won it," Tebow said. "I don't think anybody besides [the media] will probably remember how many touchdowns he [Wuerffel] scored, but everybody remembers him putting his hands together and praying and always being humble and always with the utmost integrity."

Outsiders might be skeptical about Tebow's sincerity, especially when he talks about integrity and being thankful. But Howard is emphatic that Tebow, "is that guy.

"They always look for a flaw. I guess people don't want to have a real American hero. Tim Tebow is the real American hero and he's the real deal."

Here's the article: http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/121007/col_224212685.shtml (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/209).

Also, another article on Tebow winning the Heisman. Here's a quote from him about an interesting perk of winning the award:

Interestingly, now that he's a Heisman winner, Tebow has a lifetime vote and can cast a ballot for himself in 2008. Is it a definite vote for the Gator quarterback?

"It depends on what I do. I'm not going to be biased," he said without even a hint of a smile.

Here's the article: http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071210/SPORTS/712100320 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/209).

Here's a good article about Jane Hoeppner, the widow of the late IU head football coach Terry Hoeppner, including video of the news segment that the article is about: http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7477445&Call=Email&Format=HTML.

Next, an article about the great season that Colts linebacker Gary Brackett, a Christian, is having this year, even though it hasn't been noticed in the Pro Bowl voting: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071211/SPORTS03/712110379/1058/SPORTS03.

Here's an article about new Mets catcher Brian Schneider's involvement with ALS fund-raising events, after his grandmother died from the disease: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071211&content_id=2322759&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Also, a note from a blog post from Colts head coach Tony Dungy (a Christian) last week about his tight end Ben Utecht, also a Christian, and his part in a Christian Christmas concert:

On a note away from football, Ben Utecht is performing with Sandi Patty in her Christmas concert with the African Children's choir and is just great in a duet with Sandi. If you get a chance to see the show, it's tremendous.

Here's the post: http://www.mycolts.net/tonydungy/blogentry/de17ba18-1597-4f68-9a6b-ce6b005c5da2.

Here's an article about Reds outfielder Josh Hamilton, a Christian, being honored with "Josh Hamilton Day" in his home area in North Carolina last week: http://www.theledger.com/article/20071211/APS/712110868 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/96).

Lastly, an article about Reds pitcher Aaron Harang donating money to the Miracle League in the Cincinnati area to help the baseball league for disabled children: http://news.communitypress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071212/NEWS05/712120342/1119/RSS1010 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/96).

I'll try to post some more articles later to get caught up. Bye for now!

MLB, football, NBA, and music

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MLB, NBA, football, and lots of Tim Tebow

Hi. I'm going to post some tonight and finish getting caught up this weekend hopefully. The first article is one about Phillies shortstop and new NL MVP Jimmy Rollins, a Christian, donating computers and launching a computer lab at a high school in Philadelphia: http://www.philly.com/dailynews/sports/20071127_Technically_speaking__Rollins_also_an_MVP.html (originally found at: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071128&content_id=2312828&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Here's another article about Lakers guard Derek Fisher, a Christian, taking less money to play with the Lakers so that he would be in a city that could provide the medical treatment that his daughter needed for cancer. He was nominated for the Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year Award for that, but Packers quarterback Brett Favre won the award on Monday. Here's the article: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/magazine/specials/sportsman/2007/11/20/kennedy.fisher/index.html.

Next, an article about Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester, a Christian, winning the 2007 Tony Conigliaro Award, which is given annually to a Major League player who has "overcome adversity through the attributes of spirit, determination and courage." Lester overcame cancer last winter to make a successful return to pitching with the Red Sox. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071128&content_id=2313203&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos.

Here's a good Christian article about SEC football referee Steve Shaw, a Christian, and how important integrity is on and off the field (includes a video and quiz about college football rules): http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/276322.aspx.

Also, an article about Baylor naming former Houston head football coach Art Briles, a Christian, as its new head coach. Here's a couple of quotes about Briles:

"My charge to Director of Athletics Ian McCaw was to locate a championship caliber head football coach who embraced Baylor's Christian mission, and could lead, inspire and win with integrity," said Baylor President Dr. John M. Lilley. "Ian has done an outstanding job and brings forward in Art Briles a person who can begin a new era for Baylor University football." ...

"Art Briles embodies all of the qualities that we seek in our head football coach," said Baylor Director of Athletics Ian McCaw. "He is a Godly man who believes in the Christian mission of the institution, and demonstrates great personal character, integrity and commitment to education. ..."

Here's the article: http://baylorbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/112807aam.html (originally found at: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5718).

Next, another article on murdered Redskins safety Sean Taylor, this one from the Christian Sports Blog about how Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian, knows that Taylor was a Christian. Here's a quote from Gibbs about Taylor:

"He had a growing relationship with the Lord and the reason why I say that, I didn't spend a lot of time talking to him about that, but I witnessed his life, but Brett Fuller, who is one of our chaplains, I want everybody here to know that we have the greatest group of guys working with us. We have Brett, Lee (Corder) and Jerry (Leachmen) working with the coaches and then the players. Brett had spent a lot of time with Sean over the last couple of years. Brett has handled the coaches here when he came and spoke to us earlier yesterday his feeling is that Sean had a great relationship with the Lord and he feels like he (Sean Taylor) has gone home."

Here's the article: http://christiansportsblog.blogspot.com/2007/11/sean-taylor-christian-according-to.html.

Here's a few articles about Florida quarterback and Heisman Trophy candidate Tim Tebow, a Christian. The Heisman Trophy Awards show is on Saturday at 8:00 Eastern on ESPN. First, an article from an interview with him. Here's a quote of the first question asked ("MM" is the interviewer Meghan McMahon):

MM: What role has your Christianity played in your athletic career and your life, and how has it been tested in college?

TT: My faith has played a huge role. It's the No. 1 thing in my life, above school and football. Being a Christian totally changes your perspective on life, priorities, and how you treat people. Really, it's a guideline for how you live your life, even in football and school. It does get tested every day with stuff at college, but growing up in a strong Christian family and having positive influences has really helped me stay grounded.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=AiP44jbwRiBW5Zpi.537stA5nYcB?slug=uwire-interviewtalkingtotebow&prov=uwire&type=lgns.

Next, an article from another interview with Tebow. Strangely enough, it's an interview of the Florida quarterback on a sports radio show in Houston and printed on an University of Arkansas sports website. Go figure. Anyways, here's a couple of quotes, the first one about Tebow's broken non-throwing hand, which he suffered in their last regular-season game:

Sean & John: I have heard the news last week. Let me ask you, how’s the hand?

Tebow: It’s doing fine. It is healing, it is casted up, and it will be off in a few weeks. It’s not a big deal; I guess that’s why God gives us two hands.

The other quote is about the "H word", which the interviewer means as the "Heisman Trophy", but Tebow takes a different view of it:

Sean & John: Speaking of relationships did you ever get the chance to talk with former Gators quarterback Danny Wuerffel about the expectations placed on a University of Florida quarterback even the “H word”?

Tebow: I have had the chance to talk to him and about the H word, I don’t know if it’s the same word your are talking about. We talk more about humility. He is a great guy and it has been fun getting to know him.

Sean & John: Well that was the word I was talking about…humility. Tim, I don’t know what you are thinking about.

Well, we’ll stay away from using the exact word. We know the team’s accomplishments are what motivate you above all else. However, what would it mean to you, being in consideration for the most prestigious award in college sports, what would it mean to bring the Trophy home to Florida?

Tebow: It would mean a lot and it is such an honor just to be mentioned with that award. The opportunity to go would be a huge honor and it would mean a lot. I grew up watching guys like Danny Wuerffel and other guys like that who’ve won it. It would mean a lot and again it is such an honor to be mentioned.

Here's the article (you might have to go to the print version to read the whole interview): http://arkansas.scout.com/a.z?s=10&p=2&c=706508 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/209).

Here's a good Christian article about Tebow that I included another time, and was reprinted from the Florida Baptist Witness since Tebow's up for the Heisman: http://www.floridabaptistwitness.com/8145.article (originally found this time at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/209).

Also, a couple of news articles about Tebow, the first about his being named a finalist for the Heisman Trophy: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=AtDfdPs7iG8iz8pBZXZC0nE5nYcB?slug=ap-heismanfinalists&prov=ap&type=lgns. The other article is about him winning the the Maxwell Award, given to the nation's best all-round player, and the the Davey O'Brien Award, given to the nation's top quarterback, tonight: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3144727.

Lastly, here's a short article with five reasons why former Florida Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback Danny Wuerffel, also a Christian, thinks that Tebow should win the Heisman:

It's been 11 years since a Florida quarterback won the Heisman Trophy, as Tim Tebow is in the running to do Saturday. The last Gators passer to pull that off, 1996 winner Danny Wuerffel, gives us five reasons Tebow is deserving of college football's top individual honor:
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1. He ran for 22 touchdowns this season; it would have taken me 20 years to rush for 22 touchdowns.
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2. He cares more about impoverished kids at the Tebows' orphanage in the Philippines than winning the Heisman Trophy.
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3. Tebow is the only person I know that scares Jack Bauer.
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4. He is a very humble and soft-spoken Christian man and yet he still has as much fun as Brett Favre on the field.
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5. He is the second-rated passer in college football this season – and he's built like Brian Urlacher.

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/stories/2007/12/06/gimmefive_1207.html.

MLB, football, etc.

Hello. I'm going to go ahead and finish posting the articles that I have now so that I'll be all caught up with the articles that I've read for now. The first article is one about the Rockies donating a share of their playoff money to Amanda Coolbaugh, the widow of Mike Coolbaugh, one of their minor league coaches who was killed when hit by a foul ball last summer. The share ended up being $233,505! That's a lot of money, which I'm sure will help her out with raising their three children. Here's the article: http://dailycamera.com/news/2007/nov/27/coolbaughs-wife-will-receive-233k-share/ (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/97).

Here's an article from The Christian Sports Blog about Christian athletes being soft or not: http://christiansportsblog.blogspot.com/2007/11/are-christian-athletes-too-soft.html.

Next, an article about the ways that Reds utility player Ryan Freel gives back to the community: http://mlbplayers.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071127&content_id=2310269&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Here's a blog post from IU runningback Bryan Payton, a Christian, about his Thanksgiving and what he's thankful for. Here's a quote:

I just want to say I hope you had a blessed and joyful Thanksgiving. It was by far my laziest day of the year. I ate with my parents before watching three football games (not including the Colts). I also spent most of the day walking around with a headache, sore throat, burning eyes and snotty nose. Boy, was that great! Nevertheless, I was so happy to be with my parents and being sick didn't put a damper on my Thanksgiving. I took the time to thank the Lord for everything I have and to spend quality time with my family.

Here's the post: http://insideiufootball.blogspot.com/2007/11/so-thankful.html.

By the way, IU found out tonight that they are going to be able to fulfill their late coach Terry Hoeppner's dream to "Play 13" (12 regular season games and a bowl game) by playing in the Insight Bowl against Oklahoma State on December 31st! This will be IU's first bowl game since 1993. I'm so excited!!!!!

Also, a couple of articles about the death of Redskins safety Sean Taylor last week. The first article is about the reaction to his death by his dad, Pedro. Here's part of what he had to say:

As of Tuesday, Jesus Christ was the only answer Taylor's family and friends could cling to in the death of the 24-year-old man. Taylor's father, Pedro, who is the police chief in nearby Florida City, repeatedly talked about his and his family's faith as he spoke with reporters Tuesday night.

"The mood is still the same, God is always in control," Pedro Taylor said when asked about the change from late Monday, when he and others were hopeful Sean Taylor would recover, only to have those hopes crushed. "We have no control of life or death. It's in the power of Him. We thank Him for all 24 years of having Sean here. I know it sounds short, but that's His will."

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AkPIKQoBOy0G0S_5teGUlDQ5nYcB?slug=jc-taylorreaction112707&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

The other article about Taylor is the reaction by Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian, to Taylor's death:

Earlier, Redskins Head Coach Joe Gibbs explained how his Christian faith is helping him get through this tragedy.

"For me personally, the way I'm going to deal with it is the fact that God tells us that it's going to take a thousand years for us to appreciate heaven, and that our life on Earth is a puff of smoke compared to the time that we get to spend in eternity with Him if we have a personal relationship with Him, said Gibbs.

Here's the article, including a video: http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/277461.aspx.

Lastly, here's some recent sports news about Christians and others. First, an article about Nebraska athletic director Tom Osborne, a Christian, temporarily naming himself the football head coach last week until another head coach could be hired: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=AisIJr.OFj8sKXym2R2._Xd.T4h4?slug=ap-nebraska-coachosborne&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Next, an article about the Rockies re-signing relief pitcher Matt Herges, a Christian, last week: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10504992/rss.

Staying with the Rockies, their manager Clint Hurdle, a Christian, yesterday raised awareness for the disease that effects his daughter, Prader-Willi Syndrome, in his hometown in Florida: http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071202/SPORTS/712020345/1002/SPORTS (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/97).

Lastly, an article about Red Sox closer Jonathon Papelbon helping to promote a food drive for local hunger organizations in Rhode Island yesterday: http://www.projo.com/news/content/SHAWS_DRIVE_12-02-07_4U83I1C_v11.2624d6c.html (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/110).

Well, I'm finally caught up for now. I'll post some more late this week probably.

MLB, football, etc.

Hi, I'm back. Happy Thanksgiving again. I'm going to stay up late tonight anyways, so I thought that I might as well add the rest of the articles that I have now.

The first article is another one about Padres pitcher Jake Peavy, a Christian, who won the NL Cy Young Award last week. The article is about the scout who encouraged the Padres to draft him eight years ago, and how good that move looks now: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071118&content_id=2303262&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's a blog post from Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, about their game last Sunday against the Chiefs and their upcoming game tomorrow night (Thanksgiving) against the Falcons. Here's a good quote from him about Thanksgiving:

I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving and we're going to do our best to make it an enjoyable evening for you. We also hope you remember what this Thursday is really all about--being thankful to God for all the good things He has done for us throughout the year. And most of us do have a lot to be thankful for in 2007.

In other words, the most important thing about Thanksgiving isn't football, contrary to popular belief. Here's the post: http://www.mycolts.net/tonydungy/blogentry/a41ede17-56df-4a81-9444-6c1f750b36ea.

Also, an article about Red Sox DH David Ortiz helping to collect non-perishable items at a Boston-area supermarket to send to his native Dominican Republic to help after the devastating tropical storm Noel hit there recently. He was there at the supermarket on his birthday, November 18th. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071118&content_id=2303309&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's a Christian article about Purdue women's soccer player Caroline Gamache. Purdue began national tournament play this week. Gamache, a red-shirt junior, is giving up her last year of athletic eligibility next year to get a start out on the mission field with an internship in China beginning next semester. Here's the article: http://www.sharingthevictory.com/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=3D01B651-79CD-42A0-A77672508B902792 (originally found at: http://www.fca.org/).

Also, a note from "The Christian Sports Blog" about NASCAR Busch Series driver Morgan Shepherd, a Christian who drives the #89 "Victory in Jesus" car, and his annual trip to help the needy in the Virginia mountains each December: http://christiansportsblog.blogspot.com/2007/11/morgan-shepherd-bringing-christmas-to.html.

Here's another article about Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs and his dad, former Cowboy Ron Springs, who is in a coma. Here's a quote from Shawn about his dad's condition:

"I'm a little more at peace about the situation and I feel whatever happens, whether God comes and he wakes right up or it's his time, I have accepted that my father is in a better place and it was meant to be," Shawn Springs said. "I just have faith, but I'm also very real about the situation. Not many people have ever awakened from this type of coma. At this point I think it's more of a decision that my stepmom has to make in what she wants to do and I have to come to grips with it."

Here's the article: http://www.dallascowboys.com/news.cfm?id=40D4E0FC-CFC0-D797-325F7C16EBE59A1C.

Next, an article about Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, a Christian, who is one of the nominees for the Maxwell Award, which is given to the nation's best all-around player. It's a step below the Heisman Trophy. He's also one of the nominees for the Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=Av4ltU70NjmYXmmMNj5LMCh.T4h4?slug=ap-awardsfinalists&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's a webpage with articles about what MLB teams have done to help their communities in honor of Thanksgiving. I may include some of the individual teams' articles here after I have a chance to read them. Here's the webpage: http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/mlb/official_info/community/mlb_spirit/index.jsp.

Also, a short article about Steelers offensive tackle Max Starks hosting his second annual Max Starks and the Home Team Thanksgiving Food Drive yesterday: http://www.wpxi.com/news/14659150/detail.html.

Just a note: Last Sunday, the boys high school basketball team from Blackhawk Christian School in Fort Wayne, IN, came to first service at my church. They were in the area to attend a men's basketball practice and game at IU last weekend, and stayed at a hotel in our town, which is 20 miles from IU. The came to church for first service at 8:30, because the IU game was at noon that day. We all just thought that it was the neatest thing that they would get up that early and come to our church. I just thought that I would share that. Here's the school's website: http://www.blackhawkchristian.org/.

Lastly, I think that I've figured something out with the articles that I've posted on my Facebook profile. I subscribed to the RSS feed for the articles, and I think that anyone can access them from that page. Here's the page, and I hope that this works: http://www.facebook.com/feeds/share_posts.php?id=559889093&viewer=559889093&key=e7408885b8&format=rss20.