more NFL, MLB, basketball, etc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Any big dos or don'ts on diet?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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/.

football, basketball, NASCAR, etc.

Hi. First of all, an article about Bills tight end Kevin Everett, who suffered a spinal cord injury in their first game of the season against the Broncos. It was originally feared that he would never walk again, but thanks to a cutting-edge medical procedure Everett is beginning to walk again. Last Sunday Everett was able to return to Buffalo and go to the Bills game against the Giants. Here's a quote from Domenik Hixon, the player that Everett was tackling when Everett was injured:

Everett's appearance marked the latest step in a remarkable recovery. Doctors initially feared Everett would never walk again after what was described as a life-threatening injury suffered while making a tackle on Domenik Hixon on the second-half kickoff in the season opener against Denver on Sept. 9.

Everett was paralyzed from the neck down when he arrived at Buffalo's Millard Fillmore Gates Hospital and spent the first few days on life support.

Hixon, who now plays for the Giants, was whisked away to meet with Everett after the Giants won 38-21 .

"It's a blessing," Hixon said. "I just want him to make a 100 percent recovery. I'm going to continue praying for him, and he's going to make it back 100 percent."

Here's the article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071223/ap_on_sp_fo_ne/fbn_bills_everett.

Here's a great article about Kansas star defensive tackle James McClinton, a Christian, and about how God turned his life around and then used him to bring the team together. This season the team has become what many of the players believe to be "God's Team". Others on the team that the article includes, and it sounds like they're Christians also, are head coach Mark Mangino and teammates Gary Green, Darrell Stuckey, Brandon McAnderson, Chris Harris, and Olaitan Oguntodu. Here's a quote from McClinton about his faith and football:

“I’m focused on giving God the glory,” McClinton says. “When I’m tired, he gives me strength.”

Here's the article: http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/417721.html (originally found at: http://www.fca.org/).

Next, an article about long-time Valparaiso head men's basketball coach Homer Drew, a Christian. The article was written just after Valpo lost to Wisconsin by only ten points. Here's what Wisconsin head coach Bo Ryan had to say about Drew:

"What a great guy for the game," Ryan said of Drew. "People in that area ought to be so thankful you got a family like that, a basketball family and a patriarch like him."

Here's the article: http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=8&SubSectionID=96&ArticleID=8007 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/430).

Here's an article that Yahoo! Sports NASCAR writer Bob Margolis wrote about his overcoming two kinds of cancer in the last couple years. Here's a quote from him about it:

I'm convinced God has brought me through this most difficult year of my life for a reason. He obviously has some important work for me to accomplish before my time in this world is over.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/news;_ylt=AqYW.cDWPmQM7qcTgDMHL5k5nYcB?slug=bm-bobsstory122507&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Also, an interesting article about pro athletes, teams, and organizations giving back to their communities and the difficulties that they have. The article is mainly about Indiana sports, but it talks about others too. Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071225/SPORTS/712250376/1247/NLETTER12.

Here's an article about how NASCAR and its drivers give back to kids and the outdoors: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071225/SPORTS01/712250370&theme=.

Next, an article about the top ten Christian sports stories of 2007 from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA): http://www.fca.org/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=204090DE-BF59-4963-A363D26370753C22.

Here's an article about Colts center Jeff Saturday, a Christian, and how important he is to the Colts offense and quarterback Peyton Manning: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071226/SPORTS03/712260409/1247/NLETTER12.

Lastly, a funny article about Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, a Christian, and trying to find something that he can't do because he seems so perfect. Once he struck out in intramural softball, but then a hit a long homer his next at-bat. Also, apparently he's not that good of a singer. The article mentions some other things that he's not great, but improving at. Here's a good quote about him from the article:

He's just as smooth off the field, never mumbling or stuttering in front of the cameras. He preaches the Christian gospel to teammates, inmates and Filipinos half a world away.

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/stories/2007/12/26/tebow_1227.html.

NFL, MLB, basketball, etc.

Hello. First of all, an article about LPGA golfer Lorena Ochoa, a Christian, winning the 2007 Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year Award: http://sports.espn.go.com/golf/news/story?id=3164961&campaign=rss&source=ESPNHeadlines.

Here's an article about Broncos kicker Jason Elam co-writing a Christian fiction book, Monday Night Jihad, along with his pastor Steve Yohn. He's used what he's learned while studying about the world's major religions through Liberty University to write the book about a Christian in espionage overseas. Here's the article: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=321194.

Next, an article about Colts tight end Dallas Clark, a Christian, and how important he's been to the team's success since the start of last year's playoffs: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/colts/2007-12-21-sw-dallas-clark_N.htm?csp=34.

Here's an article about ESPN's Stuart Scott, who is currently undergoing chemotherapy after cancer was found during an emergency appendectomy. The cancer was removed, but he's having chemo as a precaution. He's continuing to work some on NBA shows. Here's a quote from him about it:

"Talk about a shocker," Scott said. "But I feel good, am in great hands medically and the doctors are confident they got all the bad stuff. I'm not the type of guy to let this eat up my life. I've got strong faith and family and friends who are tackling this with me. I can't find the words to express how much I appreciate everyone's thoughts and prayers. I probably won't be able to get back to you all; but know it means a ton."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/news/story?id=3163058&campaign=rss&source=ESPNHeadlines.

Also, an article about former Mariners community relations staff member Kristen Bushnell, who left the team to work for the Christian organization Children of the Nations. The Mariners are working with her and the organization, including their front office and some of the players. Here's a quote about outfielder Raul Ibanez and pitcher J.J. Putz:

Ibanez and Putz are among the most give-back-to-the-community-minded players on the team, giving their time and significant amount of money to charity. Both are financial contributors to the Children of the Nations, and Putz said he and his wife, Kelsey, plan to get even more involved next year.

The organization works with orphans or underprivileged kids in Africa, Malawi, Uganda, and the Dominican Republic. Unfortunately, the article doesn't mention that it's a Christian organization. I checked it out on their website (http://www.cotni.org/), and this is what their mission says:

To provide responsible care to orphaned and destitute children by the equipping of nationals, giving children every possible advantage available to grow in a stable, Christ-centered environment, empowering them to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071221&content_id=2335850&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about the IU men's basketball team helping out a family in the area who recently lost their home to a fire (including video of the news segment): http://www.theindychannel.com/sports/14908711/detail.html?rss=ind&psp=news.

Next, an article about Reds outfielder Josh Hamilton, a Christian, being traded to the Rangers last week before his second major-league season. It sounds like he's just what the Rangers were wanting and that he'll get a lot more playing time there. However, I'm kind of sad because we get over half of the Reds games on TV here in Indiana, but hardly any of the Rangers. He became one of my favorite players last season and it was nice to watch him last season. I'll just have to start following the Rangers now, I guess! Here's a couple of quotes from him:

... Hamilton missed 3 1/2 years from 2002-2006 because of his drug problems while going in and out of rehabilitation eight different times. He said he has been clean for over two years and his arrival in the Major Leagues last season appeared to be in the end of a long, hard road.

"I've never met anybody who hasn't made a mistake in the past or wrestled with demons," Hamilton said. "The main thing is you learn from it and you don't repeat it. I've taken some steps in my life to put God and my family first. I have a good support system in place and I'm very comfortable in saying that the past is in the past and the future is brighter.

"Now I really want to show these guys what I can do." ...

"Last year was a dream come true," Hamilton said. "I took a very different road to the Majors than most players, and that made it even sweeter. Before I was taking things for granted and going through the motions. When I finally got back, everything I did made me realize how fortunate and blessed I was."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071221&content_id=2336081&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article about Mavericks head coach Avery Johnson, a Christian, having his number retired by the Spurs, the team that he had the most success with as a player: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/basketball/nba/12/23/spurs.avery.ap/index.html?eref=si_topstories.

Also, an article about Cardinals outfielder So Taguchi, a Christian, signing with the Phillies as a free agent today: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071223&content_id=2336269&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp.

Lastly, Sports Spectrum has put on their website the Christian athletes that are in their January/February issue: Chargers runningback LaDainian Tomlinson, Hurricanes Dave Tanabe, Senators Dean McAmmond, Rangers Ben Walter, Boise State safety Marty Tadman, and Michigan State basketball player Allyssa DeHaan, among others. Here's their website: http://www.sportsspectrum.com/. Matter in fact, I'm watching Boise State play East Carolina in the Hawaii Bowl right now, and when they're on defense all I hear is Marty Tadman this and Tadman that. He's pretty good!

baseball, football, etc.

Hi. First, a couple of articles about college teams reaching out to their communities. The first is about the Oklahoma baseball team helping out a residentinal childcare facility for boys: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/stories/101207aah.html.

The other article is about the Arkansas football team spending time with children with disabilities in Little Rock (includes video): http://www.todaysthv.com/news/news.aspx?storyid=54108 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/135).

Next, an quote from Red Sox 3rd baseman Mike Lowell about teammate Manny Ramirez's hitting in the ALDS:

"We saw the way he was swinging the bat," said Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell. "I can't say we knew for sure he was going to do what he did, but we knew his at-bats were good. With his God-given ability, we feel pretty confident with him in that spot. I don't think there's anyone else on our team we'd rather have hitting behind David than him."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071006&content_id=2254029&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos.

Here's an article about the sons of the late Mike Coolbaugh throwing out the first pitches of Game 3 of the NLDS in Colorado. Coolbaugh was the 1st base coach for Rockies Double-A Tulsa team when he was hit in the head by a pitch and killed in July. The Rockies have really reached out to the family to help them out. Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10393033.

Also, an article about Seahawks fullback Mack Strong, a Christian, having to retire last week because of a neck injury. Here's a quote from him about it:

"I've played a long time, 15 years. I felt like I was pretty lucky, pretty blessed," a teary-eyed Strong said Monday after learning that a herniated disc in his neck is pinching his spinal cord -- and ending an unheralded, improbable career that began as an undrafted free agent out of Georgia in 1993.

Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10396345/2.

Here's an article about Red Sox outfielder J.D. Drew, a Christian. The article isn't all that flattering about Drew, but here's a good quote from Drew in it:

"I've always been pretty much a family man and blessed with the ability to play baseball," Drew said. ...

Here's the article: http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/dodgers/la-sp-simers6oct06,1,1120224.column?coll=la-headlines-sports-mlb-dodger&ctrack=4&cset=true (originally found at: http://mlbplayers.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071008&content_id=2256958&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp).

Next, an article about Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner, a Christian, getting the starting job last Sunday after starting quarterback Matt Leinart broke his collarbone and is out for the year. Here's a quote from Warner about getting the job because of Leinart's injury:

"This is what you want to do every time you enter a season," Warner said. "Every time you come back to play, you want to be in there playing every snap. So I'm excited about that part of it, relatively speaking. Obviously, I'm disappointed for Matt. You never want to get this position and take over a job due to an injury."

Here's the article: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=287643.

Unfortunately, Warner tore elbow ligaments in his non-throwing shoulder during that game last Sunday, and is out indefinitely. However, the Cardinals did sign Tim Hasselbeck, also a Christian, to be the new back-up quarterback, after he was released by the Giants. Here's that article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3066197&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines.

Here's an article about Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, and the 10th anniversary of All Pro Dad, which he's been a part of since it began. The organization's goal is to help dads to be an important part in their kids' lives. They're running an event in Indianapolis in November, with Dungy, wide receivers coach Clyde Christianson, and punter Hunter Smith, both also Christians. Here's the article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=89614927-4064-4dfd-bc1e-549b858da527.

Also, an article about Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano, a Christian, and his autobiography that he recently released, "The Big Z: The Carlos Zambrano Story". I don't know anything about the book, but I just thought that I would sent the information along: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071009&content_id=2258612&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc&partnered=rss_chc.

Here's a quote from a blog post from IU runningback Bryan Payton about their game on October 6th when they beat Minnesota:

As you probably know, I scored three touchdowns. It was truly a blessing to have the opportunity to get in there and make plays for our team. But at the same time I'm not going to sit here and dwell on it. I was very happy to have my parents there to see everything. They were so proud. It felt like high school again.

Here's the post: http://insideiufootball.blogspot.com/2007/10/halfway-mark.html and here's the blog site: http://insideiufootball.blogspot.com/.

Next, an article about Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, a Christian, having to get a new cell phone number after receiving threatening phone calls before their game against LSU on October 6th. It's prett sad that people would do something like that. Here's the article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegefootball/story/10398747.

Here's another Christian article about Panthers safety Mike Minter, a Christian, retiring before the season and what he's up to now: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5679.

Also, an interesting Christian article about a lady in Moldova, Marika Sofianu, who became a Christian through Tae Kwon Do: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5680.

Here's a note about Saints quarterback Drew Brees donating $2 million to his alma mater Purdue for an student athlete-academic center that I thought was interesting:

Time of uncertainty: Things worked out OK for Brees

When he was reaching the decision to donate $2 million to create the Drew and Brittany Brees Student-Athlete Academic Center at Purdue, the former Boilermakers quarterback recalled a time when he wasn't sure which would mean more to his future, academics or athletics.

Not highly recruited, Brees had offers from Purdue and Kentucky and was unknown as a college freshman.

"I remember stepping on the field the first day of two-a-days and seeing six other quarterbacks and just saying to myself, 'Well, at least I'm going to get a great education,' " Brees said. "I did get that, but not only that, a lot of great memories and the opportunity to play in the NFL and donate back in this way."

Yeah, that football thing did work out. Brees is in the second year of a six-year, $60 million deal with the New Orleans Saints.

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071012/SPORTS/710120433/1247/NLETTER12.

Next, an aritcle about Twins outfielder Lew Ford becoming a free agent: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=288717.

Here's an article about former Nebraska head football coach Tom Osborne, a Christian, becoming Nebraska's new interim athletic director today: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/101607acm.html.

Lastly, a great interview with Rockies outfielder Matt Holliday, a Christian, after he was awarded the NLCS MVP Award last night after the Rockies swept the Diamondbacks. I haven't read the article yet, but I thought I'd go ahead and send along the interview video anyways. In it, he thanks God twice. Here's the link to the article with the video (you may have to download the video program, unfortunately): http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071016&content_id=2268550&vkey=ps2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

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/.