football, basketball, MLB, etc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also, here's a quote about McCarthy:

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

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

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

"He pulls it all together so beautifully.''

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dungy, Braves, and Angels

Hello. I'm still trying to get caught up on these articles. Here's some more tonight. First of all, an article about what Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, did the day before the Colts big game against the Patriots on November 4th: He spent the day at his All Pro Dads Kids Experience in Indianapolis helping men to become better dads. He was joined by wide receivers coach Clyde Christensen and punter Hunter Smith, both also Christians. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AruJ0gjIdRJ3tCLiYkvLhkJ.T4h4?slug=ap-dungy-familytime&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's an article about Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur's (a Christian) wedding to Catie McCoy on November 3rd, and what his now father-in-law thinks of him: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/11/03/francoeur_1104.html.

Next, another article on Tony Dungy, this one on how he has chosen his assistant coaches. Some of his former assistants have gone on to be NFL head coaches: Bears head coach Lovie Smith (a Christian), Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards, Lions head coach Rod Marinelli, and Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. Another former assistant is former Alabama head coach Mike Shula. Also Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin considers Dungy a mentor (see the chart on the left side of article and enlarge for more). Here's the article: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/04/sports/football/04dungy.html?_r=2&adxnnl=1&oref=slogin&ref=sports&adxnnlx=1194133312-w6qTFN4Frmy7pPB1IQQ9gg&oref=slogin (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/14).

Going back to the Braves, here's an article about new Braves general manager Frank Wren and how he got into baseball and his current job. While he was playing in the Minors, he had a benign tumor removed from his brain, which ended his playing career. Here's a quote from Wren about that:

"The big thing for me is that I came from a strong family. My mom and dad taught us values and belief in God, and I always thought things happen for a reason," he says. "Someone much bigger than me was in control. ... Baseball was taken away from me so I could turn the page and go on with my life. I kind of look at that as a blessing now, though I didn't at the time."

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/11/03/wren_1104.html.

Also, an article about a baseball experience for kids with special needs that the Angels held last week at their stadium. Angels pitcher Justin Speier and broadcaster Rex Hudler helped out, with Hudler's son taking part. Here's a quote from Speier about it:

"It's truly an honor and a blessing for me to see the joy these kids possess," Speier said. "Just to be out here on the field is a great time for them."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071104&content_id=2292039&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Pirates pitcher Matt Morris wanting to follow former teammate Scott Rolen of the Cardinals lead in building a camp for underprivileged kids: http://mlbplayers.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071105&content_id=2292301&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Lastly, for now at least, a couple of articles about what Tony Dungy did on November 5th, the day after the Colts big game against the Patriots. After taking his kids to school that Monday morning, he presented a couple of awards to a couple of men who had started father-child breakfasts at two local high schools. He gave the awards at a conference in Indianapolis sponsored by the White House Conference on Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. Here's the first article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071105/SPORTS03/711050404/1006/RSS01. Here's the second article, which includes a video: http://www.theindychannel.com/family/14512826/detail.html?rss=ind&psp=news (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/14).

MLB and football misc.

Hi. First of all, a neat article about Rockies manager Clint Hurdle, a Christian, who helped to inspire a teenage boy dying from cancer, and was inspired himself in return: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071026&content_id=2283990&vkey=ps2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Twins outfielder Torii Hunter, a Christian, winning the Marvin Miller Man of the Year by the MLB Players Association a week ago for his work with Little League Baseball's Urban Initiative, the Twins Rookie League and RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) youth baseball programs in the Twin Cities, Big Brother Big Sisters of the Twin Cities, and Athletes in Action. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071027&content_id=2284285&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, an article about USC quarterback Mark Sanchez and his dad Nick, a captain with the Orange County (California) Fire Authority. Nick Sanchez was at the front line fighting the wildfires in the San Diego area, but was able to leave when the fires started to slow down. That meant that he was able to go see Mark start at quarterback at Oregon a week ago yesterday. Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;_ylt=AoJw9mv5xyRnD5OokDBAbOZ.T4h4?slug=jn-sanchez102707&prov=yhoo&type=lgns.

Here's the first of a few good articles about the starting pitchers for the Red Sox and Rockies in Game 4 of the World Series a week ago yesterday. Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester, a Christian, came back from lymphoma last year to pitch this year. Rockies pitcher Aaron Cook, also a Christian, came back from blood clots in his lungs in 2004 to pitch again after missing a year. Here's a quote from the article:

"I don't think it's a coincidence," Rockies manager Clint Hurdle said before Game 3 on Saturday night. "I think this game drips with irony ... and I believe in a lot of different venues that God's fingerprints are all over a lot of things, if we are able to open our eyes and recognize (it), whatever faith you have.

"There's a battle that can be on your hands, but there's a battle that can be fought, and just as importantly there's a battle that could be won. These guys are representative of that. ... So it's good, it's real good."

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AtZ2PeVi.R4OKzdT65w403x.T4h4?slug=ap-worldseries-game4pitchers&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Here's a quote from an article about the game and Lester and Cook in response to what Hurdle said:

Maybe, as Hurdle said, "God's fingerprints" were all over this one. Or maybe it was simply two guys who got lucky. Whatever the reasons, they're here.

LUCK?! Whatever! Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=wojciechowski_gene&id=3083332&sportCat=mlb&campaign=rss&source=MLBHeadlines.

The last article about Game 4 is a transcript from an interview with Aaron Cook before Game 3. Here's a great quote from him about he and Lester's returns:

Do you find it ironic and somewhat special while you're literally not facing Jon Lester that both of you had near life threatening illnesses and now you're going head to head in Game 4?

AARON COOK: It is kind of ironic with him going through what he went through and me what I went through, both of us to work our way back up to the top level of professional baseball. It's tough enough to get here, and what we've been through, just to keep our focus, keep our faith, and just realize -- I'm sure he realizes, too, without me talking to him that baseball is not the most important thing, and once you realize that baseball is not the most important thing in the world, you're able to relax, put it back in perspective, play it like a game and just have fun, and I'm sure that's what he's been able to do, too.

You talk about having the strength to deal with that. Where did you get your strength from?

AARON COOK: Well, a lot of my strength came from my faith in God. I grew up in church. I believe that God has a plan for us all, and that we all deal with things differently, and there's a verse in the Bible that says "consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds because testing of your faith develops perseverance." That's one verse I really held onto. You can't really become the person you're supposed to be until you deal with something, and you never now how you're going to deal with it until you go through it. I think that gives you strength once you've been through something to deal with other things. I had the blood clots in my lungs in '04, and I believe that helped me to have the strength to get through the oblique injury this year.

Here's the article: http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071027&content_id=2284428&vkey=ps2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb. Here's an article with a video link of the press conference: http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071027&content_id=2284631&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col.

Also, an article about Rockies pitcher Jason Hirsch visiting a children's hospital in Denver before Game 3 of the World Series: http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071027&content_id=2284394&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col.

Here's an article about recently retired Astros 2nd baseman Craig Biggio winning the Clemente Award for community service: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071027&content_id=2284369&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, the Phillies, including pitcher Ryan Madson, having their annual Halloween party at a children's hospital in Philadelphia: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071028&content_id=2285495&vkey=ps2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about one person's opinion about the importance of Christianity to the Rockies organization. The writer makes it sound like they're the only team to hold a Faith Day, which they aren't. The last two seasons the Braves, Astros, Nationals, and Reds have had them too. I wish that the press would quit picking on the Rockies. Some sports teams have had so many players arrested that it has greatly effected their play. So which would the general public rather have, a Christian team in the World Series, or a bad team destracted by off-the-field problems? Here's the article: http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1677120,00.html?imw=Y.

Also, a great article about how some of the Rockies feel that God had a hand in them reaching the World Series. Here's a couple of quotes from pitcher Matt Herges, a Christian:

"I think God is the reason we got this far," Rockies reliever Matt Herges said. "We've done some amazing things this year (that are) hard to know. Something is going on. I think we may be getting favors from God.

"It's not like the Red Sox are going against God. I'm sure they have Christians over there. But we realize what a blessing this is." ...

"Not everybody in here is a believer," Herges said, "but this is the tightest-knit group and the most special bunch of guys I've ever been around.

"That will never be taken away from us."

Here's the article: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/playoffs/2007-10-28-rockies-faith_N.htm.

Here's the last blog entry from Rockies 1st baseman Todd Helton, a Christian, last Monday, the day after the Rockies lost the World Series. It's about how proud he was of the team to get that far. Here's a good quote:

People ask me if I can think about next season, about going to Tucson, Ariz., for Spring Training and preparing for 2008. But that's the last thing I want to think about right now.

I just want to go home and be a dad right now.

Here's the post: http://toddhelton.mlblogs.com/toddhelton/2007/10/proud_to_be_a_c.html.

Next, another good blog about the World Series from last Monday, this one from Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling, also a Christian, about the Game 4 pitchers Lester and Cook and his end of the season thanks. Here's a couple of quotes:

“God has his fingerprints all over this game.”

I stole it. Clint Hurdle said that about game 4 and it resonated with me all day long. What Aaron Cook and Jon Lester went through to get to this point, to get the ball, was God’s work. What they did after “Play Ball” was awe inspiring in a million ways. ...

There are a litany of people that deserve huge kudos for what just happened. From a personal standpoint it starts with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. What I have been able to experience, watch, be a part of, just adds to the already overflowing life of incredible memories I am totally undeserving of. To be able to participate in, and witness, events that millions of people around the world will never forget is pretty much indescribable.

I thank the Lord for an incredible wife, 4 beautiful and healthy children. Shonda remains my rock. In a life that sees me pretty much absent from the home for 6-8 months a year she has held the fort. That’s saying a lot when that fort contains 3 boys, ages 12, 8 and 5, and a young lady of 10. Wherever next year takes us it’s incredibly comforting knowing the ships in order and my children, even though I THINK they miss me, are being raised by a woman of virtue, passion, devotion and love that knows no bounds.

Here's the post: http://38pitches.com/2007/10/29/2007-world-series-champions/.

Here's an article about runningback Samkon Gado, a Christian, being claimed off waivers by the Dolphins from the Texans last week: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=298081.

Also, something interesting that I heard while watching part of the LSU/Alabama game last night. The broadcasters mentioned that LSU freshman safety Chad Jones dad worked with former NFL quarterback Danny Wuerffel, a Christian, and Desire Street Ministries in New Orleans. I just thought I would pass that along for what it's worth.

Just a funny note: Almost all of the monthly and weekly meetings planned for late afternoon/early evening at my church were either moved to earlier or postponed so that everyone could watch the big Colts/Patriots game, which started at 4:00 local time. Unfortunately, the Colts lost though. :(

Lastly, I started a page on Digg to post articles that I come across and think look interesting. Some ot the articles are ones that I will read, some I won't. Some of the artilces I'll end up posting, some I won't. I just thought that I would share my page so that you could check it out if you want to. You might have to register for the site to access it, I'm not sure. Here's the page: http://digg.com/users/milligan00.

MLB, football, and basketball

First of all, an article about Royals 1st baseman/designated hitter Mike Sweeney, a Christian, and an injury that he suffered last Friday. He ended up being out until yesterday, missing more than he initially thought that he would. The article also mentions that Sweeney will be a free agent after the end of the season and his chances of returning to the Royals next year. Here's what Sweeney has to say about his contract status and possible return to the Royals, which I think is awesome because he's looking out for the good of the team and his teammates first:

Sweeney said neither he nor his agents have had "any communication" recently with general manager Dayton Moore.

"I guess the writing on the wall is to wait until the season is over and give the Royals a chance to evaluate the team, including Billy [Butler] at first base," Sweeney said.

Moore, earlier this week, said Sweeney's status, as well as the other players, will be evaluated at season's end.

"I don't feel like I even deserve for them to negotiate or talk to me at this point," Sweeney said. "With the injuries the last couple of years, I'm not in a position to command any negotiation at this time.

"I'm rooting for Billy to excel at first base to give me a chance to be part of the team. If it doesn't work out, then we have Ross [Gload] and [Ryan] Shealy to do an amazing job at the corner."

If Butler does prove capable of playing first base regularly, that could leave the DH spot open for Sweeney.

"I never would have thought that my future with the Kansas City Royals, after playing here for 13 seasons, would depend on the glove of a 21-year-old kid from Jacksonville, Fla.," Sweeney said good-humoredly.

"But Billy's a very big part of the Royals' future, and it's important that they know which direction to go, whether it be Billy as the DH or as the first baseman. But I'm rooting for Billy, I'm rooting for Ross and I'm rooting for Shealy. If I get thrown into the mix or the equation, then I'll be happy."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070915&content_id=2210321&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about the Nationals taking batting practice at their new stadium last Saturday, which is in the process of being built for next season. Nationals outfielder, Ryan Church (a Christian), was the one who had the idea, so that they could thank the construction workers. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070915&content_id=2210707&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, an article about Florida quarterback Tim Tebow's (a Christian) impressive play through the Gators first three games, especially last Saturday against Tennessee: http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegefootball/story/10354221/rss.

Here's an article about Tigers closer Todd Jones, a Christian, recording his 300th career save last Sunday and becoming only the 21st player in ML history to reach that mark. The article also includes video of the save: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070916&content_id=2212759&vkey=news_det&fext=.jsp&c_id=det&partnered=rss_det.

Also, a great article about a fan, Will Stewart, giving White Sox designated hitter Jim Thome back the ball Thome hit for his 500th and game-winning home run, which I thought was absolutely great. Stewart, who is from Texas, was in Chicago for a conference and decided to go the the White Sox/Angels game on Sunday. After catching the ball, Stewart decided that the ball should go to Thome because of the historical significance of it. He hand-delivered the ball to Thome at a post-game press conference. The White Sox then gave him some signed memorabilia and season tickets for next season. However, Stewart donated the tickets to the charity of Thome's choice, and they will be auctioned off for the Children's Hospital of Illinois. Stewart said that he wouldn't be able to use the tickets since he lives in Texas, but the White Sox are flying him and some friends to Chicago to sit in Thome's box during one of the games against the Cubs next season. Here's the article, which includes a video of Thome's home run: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070916&content_id=2212817&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Statying with the White Sox, here's a short article by a single mom from Chicago and how watching the White Sox both on TV and at the stadium brings her and her two kids, ages 12 and 15, closer, becaue it's something that they can all enjoy together: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070916&content_id=2211856&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, a great blog post from Colts head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian, that he ends by discussing the Patriots spying scandal and his thoughts about it and what Colts owner Jim Irsay would think about it too:

Unfortunately, neither our game, or any game, was really the subject of discussion this week in the NFL. Most of the talk centered on the Patriots and their use of illegal cameras on the sideline. As I listened to the commentators, it seemed to me that the thoughts came down to one point. Does it really matter how you do things or is it just the end result you're interested in? The question that kept coming up was "Does this take away from what the Patriots have done?"

I guess it depends on who you're rooting for, but I know how Jim Irsay feels about it and how he runs this organization. As happy and excited as we were to win our Super Bowl, I don't think Jim would have taken any satisfaction in winning if he felt I was breaking the rules to do it. I'm glad I work for an owner who feels that way and not only doesn't put that type of pressure on us to "win at all costs," but would be very upset if we knowingly violated any NFL rules. So I think it does matter how you win and I hope we, as a league, continue to send that message to young players and coaches who are watching us.

Here's the blog post: http://www.mycolts.net/tonydungy/blogentry/49456f06-0597-43dd-afd8-49f8b29951b1.

Here's an article about a great jesture by Texas A&M football tight end Martellus Bennett. Before committing to A&M, Bennett had verbally committed to U. of Miami, but later changed his mind and stayed in his home state of Texas. When Bennett went on his official visit to Miami, he stayed with then Miami tight end Kevin Everett, and they remained friends even after Bennett decided to go to A&M instead. On September 9th, Everett suffered a life-threatening spinal cord injury while playing for the Bills against the Broncos. Everett has improved greatly and should be able to walk again in the near future, which the doctors initially thought that he would never do again (Here's the latest on Everett: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070921/ap_on_sp_fo_ne/fbn_bills_everett_hurt). To honor his friend, Bennett got permission to change his number from 13 to Everett's #85 for their game last Saturday. He then got permission to wear it for the rest of the season, including last night at Miami, which A&M lost. Here's the article about Bennett initially changing his uniform number: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/091707aek.html and here's an article about the number change being permanent: http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/092007acj.html.

Lastly, an article about Alabama guard Ronald Steele, a Christian, who is taking a medical redshirt this season to recover from knee surgery and prepare for his senior season next year. Here's a quote from him about it:

"I am someone who tries to approach whatever I do with my best effort, and I know my body," he said in a statement. "At this point in time, I don't believe I will be 100 percent by the start of practice.

"This is something I've put a lot of thought and prayer into. I want to play my best and play an entire season and know I've done everything I can on the court to help Alabama win."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=3024776.

sports misc.

First, a good article about Alabama basketball player Jermareo Davidson and the struggle that he's had following the death of his brother and girlfriend within a few weeks of each other. I think that I sent an article about him before, but this is a new one from this week's Sports Illustrated. Here's a quote:

How has Davidson found the strength to play basketball? How has he stood up to the pain? Perhaps the answer lies in the scene that took place on Dec. 28, during his brother's funeral at the Capitol View United Methodist Church in Atlanta. The night before, he had stunned his mother by telling her he wanted to be baptized in the church that he and Dewayne attended as children. So after giving his eulogy, Pastor Otis Pickett asked the congregation if anyone wanted to be saved. Davidson came forward. "It really was a powerful moment for every one of us who was there to witness it," says Croom, the brother of Mississippi State football coach Sylvester Croom.


And so, in a church that was filled to capacity, a grieving giant kneeled on a pillow, asked for forgiveness and gave his life to the Lord. Afterward, nobody could tell whether it was holy water or tears running down Jermareo Davidson's face.

Here's the article: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/grant_wahl/01/29/davidson0129/index.html.

Here's an article about a charity golf tournament held by the Yankees Derek Jeter: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070129&content_id=1788935&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, a good article about Butler basketball player A.J. Graves. Here's a quote:

"That's the main reason I committed to Butler so early," Graves said. "I didn't think I could have played anywhere else but Butler. Coming from a small school and with the slight stature I have, I knew I had to go to Butler. That's where I had to be. Major teams play more physical and they're faster. I don't have those skills. God didn't bless me with those skills. I had to go some place where the coaches and system could make me a better player."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=schlabach_mark&id=2747216.

Here's another article about Colts tight end Dallas Clark, a Christian, giving the credit to God for his knee injury back in November not being as bad as it was originally feared. Here's a quote:

"Yeah,'' the veteran tight end said, "I feel very blessed. The Lord works in mysterious ways. The game can be taken away from you so fast, with an injury, being cut, not doing a good job, whatever.''

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007701300360.

Also, an article about the A's Mike Piazza's charity involvement: http://mlbplayers.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070130&content_id=1789491&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article about the Mets Jose Reyes, John Maine, and Omar Minaya visiting children in a hospital in New York: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070130&content_id=1789990&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, a great article about Colts chaplain Ken Johnson and head coach Tony Dungy, a Christian: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5534.

Here's another great article on Bears coach Lovie Smith, a Christian: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5533.

Also, an interesting article on the Bears Nathan Vasher's mom, who has manic depression and what she has to go through: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=wojciechowski_gene&id=2748764.

Here's a quote about the Bears Tommie Harris, a Christian, in an article about Bears rookie defensive end Mark Anderson:

He credited the entire defensive line for teaching him how to adjust to the pro game, but singled out Harris, the Pro Bowl defensive tackle lost to a season-ending torn left hamstring after 12 games.

"He came in and took me under his shoulder," Anderson said. "We used to watch film together and work out. He was probably the first person to help me out."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007701310456.

Lastly, a good article on the Colts Jeff Saturday's strange road to the NFL. He is also a Christian. Isn't amazing how God works sometimes? As a Colts fan, I'm just glad that the Ravens didn't keep him! Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007701310459.

Pollack, Davidson, and Hunt

Hi. First, the latest that I've found about David Pollack of the Bengals and his upcoming neck surgery. The surgery is set for January 3rd and may or may not mean the end of his career: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/uga/stories/2006/12/15/1215pollack.html.

Next, a sad but inspirational story about star Alabama basketball player Jermareo Davidson. In November, his brother was shot in the neck and is paralyzed and on a ventilator. Five days after that happened, as he, his girlfriend, and a friend were leaving the hospital after visiting his brother, they were in an accident and his girlfriend was killed. It sounds like he and his mom are Christians thankfully. Here's quotes from his mom and then Davidson himself:

Meanwhile, Madonna Davidson has breakdowns, too, only hers happen about every hour or so.

"I have two sons," she said, "and both of them are hurting right now."

Of Jermareo, she said, "This was supposed to be his year. He was going to graduate and go to the NBA. Nicki was going to graduate and go into sports medicine. Jermareo has a strong faith in God and that will get him through this, but I just wish sometimes I could be there with him, you know?"

Jermareo Davidson said he's going to be fine.

"I still have my moments," he said, "but I know Nicki is where she's supposed to be, with God. And I know both she and my brother would want me to keep playing basketball and keep pursuing my dreams."

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/uga/content/sports/stories/2006/12/15/1216davidson.html.

Lastly, a good article about the memorial service last week for the late Kansas City Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt. Here's a cute quote from his granddaughter:

Another night, Clark Hunt's daughter Grace was getting ready for bed when she asked whether football is played in heaven.

"It doesn't really matter," she said. "If there isn't football in heaven, Pappy will start his own league."

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2699751.