Super Bowl, NFL, basketball, and baseball

Hi. This is my first of three posts for this weekend. There are a lot of extra articles and things with the Super Bowl coming up, so I'll divide the articles up into more managable posts. First, a couple of Christian websites for the Super Bowl. The first site is Athletes in Action's Beyond the Ultimate, which is designed as a witnessing tool. It's redesigned to correspond with each major athletic event, including the Super Bowl. Now it has testimonial articles from the Giants David Tyree and Reggie Torbor and the Patriots Rosevelt Colvin and Ben Watson, along with videos from Colts head coach Tony Dungy and Bears head coach Lovie Smith. Here's the link: http://www.beyondtheultimate.com/default.aspx.

The other Christian Super Bowl site is the Baptist Press' Beyond the Game. They have a writer in Arizona covering the Super Bowl festivities from a Christian perspective who has written articles all week. I'll post the articles separtately later, but here's the site to check out now: http://www.bpnews.net/BPCollectionNews.asp?ID=124.

Another general football site is the NFL Players website, which includes short video interviews and more of seven different players, including two Christians: Colts center Jeff Saturday and Dolphins quarterback Trent Green. The whole website is pretty good, but especially the Saturday and Green parts: http://www.nflplayers.com/server/index.html.

Here's a Christian article about Washington State men's basketball head coach Tony Bennett. The article also mentions two Christian players on the team, guard Taylor Rochestie and forward Daven Harmeling. Washington State came from nowhere last year to have great success, and have had an even better season so far this year. Here's a quote from Bennett about that:

So the Cougars march on, unsure if more blessed March Madness awaits them, but intent upon doing things the right way, regardless of their destination.

“God is teaching me, as always, to walk by faith and not by sight because now we’re in a season that’s more in the spotlight,” Bennett said. “We were higher in the preseason expectations. We talk about not worrying about the end result. We have to walk through the process.”

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5749.

Next, a Christian article about Chadron State runningback Danny Woodhead and his winning the Harlon Hill Trophy, the NCAA Division II equivalent of the Heisman Trophy. He is hoping to get a chance to play in the NFL now. Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5750 (originally found at: http://christiansportsblog.blogspot.com/2008/01/danny-woodhead-wins-harlon-hill-trophy.html).

Here's a good Christian article about Tony Dungy's decision to return and coach the Colts for at least one more year. It's talks about one of the reasons for Dungy's return is the platform for sharing his faith that being the Colts head coach gives him. Here's a quote from him about that:

"I enjoy my job, the players, the staff we have here and Bill (Polian) and Jim," Dungy told reporters. "But it is a platform and that's something I talked to my wife and pastor about. I said 'I could stop and start a ministry, but I might not have a platform like this.'"

"I look at this as a job," he said, "but I also look at it as a ministry ... I might not have as effective a ministry as I have right now."

Here's the article: http://www.christianpost.com/article/20080124/30960_Dungy_Sees_Return_to_Colts_as_Chance_to_Share_Faith.htm.

Also, a couple of articles on Bengals defensive lineman David Pollack, a Christian, who suffered a serious neck injury in September of 2006. Lately he has been training for a potential return to the NFL at the Ignition group, Christian-oriented facility near Cincinnati. There he has been working with NFL hopefulls, including Southern Illinois quarterback Nick Hill, a Christian. On February 8th, what he's calling "D-Day", he'll meet with his doctor to make a final decision about whether or not returnning to play would be worth the risk of injuring his neck even more severely. So this would be a good prayer request too, that he makes the right decision for his health. Here's some quotes from him about what he's been doing, his decision-making process, and how the injury has changed him as a person:

... He is instructing and training with 11 NFL hopefuls, including four players from the University of Cincinnati, and leading Bible study for them on Wednesday nights at his Liberty Township home. He’s preparing his body and mind for his potential comeback as a player. ...

“I will want to take some time, though, to fast and pray and spend time by myself a lot and try to figure out where God is leading me,” he said. “If it closes one chapter, it opens another.” ...

The experiences of this past two years have changed Pollack.

“I’m always running around. The Bible verse I always think about is: 'Be still and know that I am God.' I’ve never been still in my life,” Pollack said. “I have had time to sit back. It has been a rewarding experience. It’s hard to explain how breaking your neck can make you better.

“I have learned a lot about myself and my wife. I am domestic now, which is crazy. Football players are selfish people. We think we work so hard and have the hardest job in the world. It’s just not true. I had to step out of the box to figure that out.

“Now, I come over here to train, and before I leave I put a load of laundry in. Then I go home and clean and do the dishes. I am more rounded. I help my wife out more. I am a more patient person.”

Here's that article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080124/SPT02/301240057/1066/.

The other article about Pollack has these quotes about his decision-making process:

"Trust me, I'm not going to do anything stupid," Pollack said earlier this week. "If someone says there is a 50 percent chance I'll break my neck [again], I'll never go anywhere near a field again." ...

"Things happen for a reason," said Pollack, who is deeply religious. "I pray a lot, not so much to ask God to allow me to play again, but to help me make the right decision when the time comes. If I'm meant to get back on the field, it will happen. And if not, well, I'm not going to play that what if guessing game. I'll just move on to whatever it is I'm supposed to be doing and attack it just as hard as I do football." ...

"We're getting closer to a decision," Pollack said. "Whichever way it comes down, I'm really mentally, emotionally and spiritually prepared for it."

Here's that article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3215632&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines.

Next, an article from an interview with Tony Dungy, with some more about returning to coach since his job is a ministry too:

Q: You said in the press conference that you consider this more than a job. It’s also a ministry. How much did that influence your decision to return?

A: If it was just about football and winning the Super Bowl, we’ve done that and I have said that I’m not going to be in this forever. I do feel like I’m getting close to when I’m going to finish. I have a great deal of respect for (Colts Owner and Chief Executive Officer) Jim Irsay and want to do what would help him, but if it was just that, I probably wouldn’t still be in it. But the fact that you do feel like you’re doing more than just coaching a football team and you can accomplish some things because of the position – you still have to do your job and you still have to win and all of that – but I get to do more.

Q: Is that why you mentioned that missionaries are often away from their families . . .

A: That’s something my wife (Lauren) and I talked about. It’s something that we feel like the Lord has given us right now for this time. He has put us in a great team, a great organization and we feel like there’s a reason for it.

Here's the article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=185a6dc9-28c8-434f-aaad-75914207b012&rssrefer=south_bend_tribune.

Here's the article about IUPUI (Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis) men's basketball head coach Ron Hunter, Christian, and the results of his drive to get donations of shoes and money for the Christian organization Samaritan's Feet. He coached one of the team's games last week barefoot to raise awareness of the organization, with hopes of gettting 40,000 pairs of shoes. Because of the publicity about it in the days leading up to the game, he had reached that goal by lunchtime that day, and ended the day with 110,000 pairs and even more promised later! Hunter plans to take the shoes to Africa himself, and some of his Jaguars players have expressed interest in going along too. Here's a quote from the article:

For the record, Hunter's exposed feet weren't stepped on during the game. It bears noting that he almost never sits down when the action -- and the feet -- are flowing.

"My feet hurt so bad," he said after the game. "But imagine a child or a human going their whole lives without shoes."

Hunter, 43, said his month-long association with Samaritan's Feet has already affected him, and he knows it could be on the verge of changing the lives of others.

Several of his players have vowed to join him on the summer trip, which he'd like to take to Cameroon, home to Jaguars freshman guard Christian Siakam. In Siakam's family, shoes are a luxury; not everyone has them.

Now, a man with no ties to IUPUI has offered to charter a jet to fly the team to Africa, pending NCAA approval, of course.

"I knew when I saw Siakam's face we were doing the right thing," Hunter said.

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080125/SPORTS06/801250407/1068. Also, here's an article with a video of the news segment from the local news about it: http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7771854&Call=Email&Format=HTML.

Also, an article about Colts safety Antoine Bethea, who was named as an injury replacement for the Pro Bowl last week. Here's some of what he had to say about it:

“It’s a great feeling,” Bethea said. “It’s been a long road, coming from where I came from and how I had to fight an uphill battle. It’s just a continued blessing for me: last year playing in the Super Bowl and now this year, my second year, being selected to go to the Pro Bowl.

“All the hard work you put into it, to get rewarded for it is just a blessing.”

Here's the article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=7214cc89-86eb-4609-ae56-e2ea9ff54daa.

Here's a couple more articles about Colts associate head coach/quarterbacks coach Jim Caldwell, a Christian, who was named to succeed Tony Dungy as head coach when Dungy retires. The first one is an interview article: http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page=article7&news_id=85f25998-5166-4677-adec-a93d0558cb7d, and the other is more a biographical one and about how similar he is to Dungy: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080128/SPORTS03/801280350/1247/NLETTER12.

Next, an article about Cubs minor-league pitcher Donnie Veal, a Christian, and about how he lost his father in a scuba-diving accident last November, almost three years to the day after his mother died from cancer. The article tells about how he's dealing with the deaths, as well as his brother Devin, who is a red-shirt freshman football player at Arizona: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355174&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Brewers pitcher Jeff Suppan, a Christian, and the new restaurant that he and his wife own and run in California: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article_entertainment.jsp?ymd=20080124&content_id=2354591&vkey=entertainment&fext=.jsp.

Also, another article about retired Tigers broadcaster Ernie Harwell's (a Christian) 90th birthday last Friday. Here's a quote about some of the things that he's doing now:

He still finds time to stop in at Comerica Park once in a while, occasionally working with Baseball Chapel, other times doing a guest spot on various telecasts....

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355587&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's another article about Baylor men's basketball head coach Scott Drew, a Christian, and the success that the team's having this year after turning the program around from the absolute bottom. Here's a quote about the advice about dealing with adversity that his father, Valparaiso men's basketball head coach Homer Drew (also a Christian), gave him when he took the job at Baylor:

"He was very supportive, and he gave me one piece of advice that was really good," Drew said. "When he went to Valparaiso, they never had had a winning season in their Division I history. He said the Book of Job really helped him."

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080126/SPORTS/801260433/1247/SPORTS.

Lastly for now, an article about the celebrity charity soccer game that Dodgers 3rd baseman Nomar Garciaparra and his wife, retired soccer star Mia Hamm, held last weekend: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080126&content_id=2356447&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp.

more NFL, MLB, basketball, etc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Any big dos or don'ts on diet?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NFL, MLB, basketball, etc.

Hello! Here's the first post for this weekend. First is a Christian article about Seahawks fullback Leonard Weaver. Here's a quote from Weaver about his faith:

Weaver attributes faith in Christ as the key factor in his development, as a person, a husband and father and as a professional football player. He says the game has provided him life lessons that dovetail with his devotion.

“Football teaches a lot about faith, especially with me,” he said in the Seahawks’ locker room following a defeat in Atlanta. “There are hardships and hard times, but, if you continue to keep your head up and keep your confidence, good things will happen later on.”

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5745. Also, a link to former Seahawk fullback Mack Strong (a Christian)'s blog, The Strong Report, as mentioned in this article: http://www.seahawks.com/News/BlogsAndColumns.aspx?blogId=330.

Here's another Christian article about the strong Christians on the Packers team. Here's a quote from defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila:

But with all of his accomplishments, Gbaja-Biamila doesn't want any of the credit.

"By God's grace, I've had great success on the football field. I've set sack records for one of the most storied franchises in all of sports - the Green Bay Packers - and I plan to do more in my football career as long as God allows me the opportunity," Gbaja-Biamila said. "As much as I enjoy football and the success, I know that those things won't last forever. There is one thing that will, however, and that's my relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This by far is my greatest victory."

Here's a link to the Freedom House Ministries that Gbaja-Biamila is involved with in Green Bay: http://www.freedomhouseministries.org/contact.html.

Here's the article: http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/306408.aspx.

Next, an article about Rockies outfielder Willie Taveras, a Christian, and how he's preparing for the upcoming season: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080118&content_id=2350867&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col.

Here's an article about the Packers and how the area churches blend or separate the team and church. Here's a couple of quotes from local clergy with different opinions on the topic, before the Packers/Giants game last Sunday:

The Rev. Dan Dainsberg of Faith Chapel, a Christian missionary alliance church, knows some of his parishioners will certainly privately pray for a Packers victory. But he won't.

"There are people on the Giants who love God and people on the Packers who love God and to try to pit one against the other, I wouldn't do that," the pastor said. "As big of a game as this is and excited as we are, it is small in comparison to life and death matters." ...

Certainly, he [The Rev. John Becker of Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church] said, some of his parishioners will be praying for a win Sunday. Children in the church's school offered a special petition last week during a Mass, praying for a Packers victory.

Privately, the priest admitted, he would, too.

"I am very strong supporter of the Packers. I will say, 'God's will be done,' but please may it be that the Packers win," he said, laughing.

Here's the article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AnTL4iBYual6hzYhZQUQ8lsdsLYF?slug=ap-packers-prayers&prov=ap&type=lgns.

Also, a blog post on the Reds signing pitcher Jeremy Affeldt, a Christian, as a free agent from the Rockies: http://blue-collarbaseball.blogspot.com/2008/01/reds-sign-pitcher-affeldt.html.

Here's an article on Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman, a Christian, and how he's worked hard to become a star: http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10587154/rss.

Next, an blog post on Rick Hendrick, the NASCAR owner of Hendrick Motor Sports, who bought a special car for an injured soldier: http://christiansportsblog.blogspot.com/2008/01/hendrick-helps-iraq-vet.html.

Here's an article about Cowboys tight end Jason Witten, a Christian, being named as a finalist for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. The winner will be announced before kickoff on Super Bowl Sunday. The other finalists are the Dolphins Jason Taylor (also a Christian), Steelers Hines Ward, and Chiefs Brian Waters. Here's a quote from Witten about being nominated for the award:

"What I do on the field is important and my job, but I know that playing for the Dallas Cowboys and in the National Football League has afforded me the unique opportunity to contribute off the field, to make a difference in the lives of those in need," Witten said.

"To be a finalist is a great honor, and I am just proud to be mentioned in the same breath as Mr. Payton."

Here's the article: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/011908dnspowitten.3bce895d.html (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/5).

Also, some articles and video clips about IUPUI (Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis) men's basketball head coach Ron Hunter, a Christian, and his helping to support the Christian organization Samaritan's Feet (http://www.samaritansfeet.org/). The organization collects shoes and money for kids without shoes throughout the world, especially Africa. Hunter went barefoot during IUPUI's game against Oakland last Thursday. These articles are from before the game, and I'll have more from after the game on a later post. Here's a quote from the first article:

With the help of Samaritan's Feet, a Christian-based group in Charlotte, N.C., Hunter's goal is to raise 40,000 pairs of new shoes during February, which is Black History Month.

"Dr. Martin Luther King had the courage and the faith to make a difference, and I hope that's what I'm about," Hunter said. "I want to use my passion to make a difference. I want people to feel it."

Hunter belongs to the same church in Indianapolis as Colts head coach Tony Dungy. Here's that article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080121/SPORTS06/801210351/1004/RSS02.

The next article tells some more about what Hunter was doing. There were 30,000 shoes donated by the day before the game. Here's that article: http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegebasketball/story/10594951/rss.

The last article about Hunter's project mainly just contains a good video segment from the local news about it: http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7764687&Call=Email&Format=HTML.

Here's an article about Cardinals 1st baseman Albert Pujols, a Christian, addressing false reports that he had used drugs. Here's a quote from him:

Asked if he felt any need to prove himself all over again in light of the report, Pujols didn't hesitate.

"I don't have to prove myself," he said. "Since 2001, I've been proving myself with the numbers. I've been proving myself every year. How much better can I get? Only God knows how much better [I can] get. But do I need to cheat in this game to get better? This is nothing for me.

"Baseball is just a hobby, man. God has blessed me. And I fear God too much for me to do a stupid thing. I fear him. If I do some stupid things to help me out, to hit .400 or three-something or hit 30 home runs, he's going to take that away from me. So why not be the natural guy like I've been since I was in the Minor Leagues? To cheat in this game, that's not right."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080121&content_id=2352353&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Next, an article about new Royals manager Trey Hillman, a Christian. He was hired by Royals general manager Dayton Moore, also a Christian. Here's a quote from him about becoming the Royals manager after spending the last five years managing in Japan:

"I kind of look at timing as a blessing from above," says Hillman, a deeply religious Christian. "Nobody on this earth is smart enough to know when the perfect timing is for anything."

Here's the article: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/al/royals/2008-01-21-hillman-royals_N.htm?csp=34.

Lastly for now, a good post from the Saved in Sports blog about Giants quarterback Eli Manning and the charity work that he's done: http://savedinsports.wordpress.com/2008/01/22/patriots-giants-who-will-make-history-eli-manning/#comment-118.

MLB, football, and basketball

Hello! I'm going to divide the articles that I have into two posts. I'll do one now, and the other either later today or tomorrow.

The first article that I have is about some past and present MLB players getting together to help raise money for the MLB Players Trust last weekend. Those involved were Ken Griffey, Jr.(Reds), Ryan Howard (Phillies), Mark Grudzielanek (Royals), Chris Capuano (Brewers), Kenny Lofton (Indians), Brian Fuentes (Rockies), Mark Loretta (Astros), Josh Barfield (Indians), and Hall of Famers Frank Robinson, Dave Winfield, Ozzie Smith, Paul Molitor, and Eddie Murray. Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/pa/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080106&content_id=2340299&vkey=mlbpa_news&fext=.jsp.

Here's an article about Pedro Taylor, the father or murdered Redskins safety Sean Taylor, visiting the Redskins after they lost in the playoffs last weekend: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=333996.

Next, an article about Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman, a Christian, receiving the Red Smith Award, which "is presented annually to the individual who has contributed or continues to contribute to sports either on or off the field throughout the state of Wisconsin." Here's a quote from him about his work in the community:

Kampman's role in the community is nearly as extensive as his being named to back-to-back Pro Bowls as a player.

Last January, he and his wife, Linde, spent two weeks with the Gospel of Asia Christian ministry. He also previously traveled overseas with the Christian organization Unlimited Potential Incorporated. He has worked with the Packers' All-Pro Dad event in 2006 and volunteers extensively with the Green Bay Community Church youth group.

"I've done a lot of different things, speaking to different groups and just seeing what God is doing in different areas," Kampman said. "I enjoy speaking to kids. I have a degree in elementary education and just the opportunity to be an influence in people's lives, because regardless of what people think — right, wrong or indifferent — that's the responsibility you have."

Here's the article: http://www.postcrescent.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080106/APC02/801060602/1892.

Here's an article about Rays Triple-A Durham Bulls manager Charlie Montoyo, whose 11-week-old son is fighting for his life after he was born with a rare heart ailment. The Rays and their minor-league affiliates, most of whom Montoyo managed at one time, have started funds to help the Montoyos pay for medical bills and other expenses. Here's a quote from Montoyo:

Montoyo said he has tried at times to think about baseball, a game that has been his life for decades.

"I thank God that the job I have allows me to be here everyday with my family," he said. "I don't want to miss a game, a day of baseball, so we planned to have the baby in the offseason. It worked out, it was perfect. And now I need to be here."

Here's the article: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080107&content_id=336926&vkey=news_milb&fext=.jsp.

Also, an article about Dodgers infielder Nomar Garciaparra and his wife Mia Hamm (former star soccer player), who are involved with a celebrity soccer game that helps raise money for Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and the Mia Hamm Foundation, which raises funds and awareness for bone marrow transplant patients and their families: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080107&content_id=2341211&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's an article about Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier, a Christian, interviewing for the Dolphins head coaching job last week: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2008-01-07-3264981647_x.htm.

Next, a Christian article about Kentucky tight end Jacob Tamme "was named winner of the Bobby Bowden Award, a national honor for character, service, academics, and football performance, as presented by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at the FCA breakfast held in conjunction with the national championship game." Also at the breakfast were Ohio State head football coach Jim Tressel, Florida State head football coach Bobby Bowden, and LSU head football coach Les Miles. Here's the article: http://www.fca.org/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=256814F1-B388-4054-92C749EC1938B82B.

Staying with the national championship game, an article about LSU beating Ohio State in that game. Here's a quote from LSU head coach Les Miles about playing in and winning the game:

"Certainly there will be some argument as to who's the best team. But I think the national champion has been crowned tonight," Miles said. "I have give great credit to some divine intervention that allows us to be in this position."

Here's the article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080108/ap_on_sp_co_ga_su/fbc_bcs_championship

Also, a Christian article about former Florida State Heisman-Trophy winning quarterback and NBA guard Charlie Ward. Ward is now an assistant football and basketball coach at a Christian school in Houston. Here's a great quote from the article:

“When I look back over my life to where I am today, the Lord definitely had his hand on me because everything has happened for a reason,” Ward said. “It’s just a blessing that I had those different experiences over my career. It shaped my thought process and made me the type of husband and father I am today.”

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5736.

Here's a Christian article about Boise State safety Marty Tadman, who just finished his college career. Here's a quote from him:

“Football has given me a national platform,” Tadman said. “It has opened many doors that otherwise would not be opened. I have been able to reach people that would not have listened to a word I say. It’s been awesome.

“The biggest witnessing tool you have is your life,” he continued. “I am living for heavenly things. I want to share my life being a loving testament to Christ. God wants me to stand up for myself and faith in a bold way. He wants to use me in a powerful way.”

Here's the article: http://www.bpsports.net/bpsports.asp?ID=5737.

Lastly on this post, an article about Reds high school scout Ken Neuhaus, who recently became a scout after coaching high school and college baseball for many years. Here's a quote from him about that:

"I always thought I was blessed because I got paid to coach for 26 years. Now, I'm getting a chance to get paid just for watching games."

Here's the article: http://www.thonline.com/store/view.cfm?id=JiZNUz7AhUTi9OCgz3Dz3D (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/96).

basketball & football, especially coaches & SEC

Hi. Happy New Year! This will be my last post of the year.

First, a good article about basketball player Wayne Simien, a Christian formerly with Kansas, the Timberwolves, and the Heat. He was released by the Heat and is currently rehabbing a knee injury so that he can return to play with some team in the NBA next season. Simien and his wife and daughter are living in Indianapolis now while he's rehabbing. Here's a quote from him:

Simien said he was in no hurry to give up basketball and perhaps pursue a career as a minister. A man of deep faith, he’d said in the past that might be an avenue he’d like to explore someday.

“That was in my heart at the beginning when I first had a transformation in life,” Simien said. “One of the great things I learned to look into the last few years is you can be a minister in every area of life and not be ‘Pastor Wayne’ or ‘Preacher Wayne.’ I still have it in my heart. But it’s my main focus trying to live it out every day of my life and administer with people.

“I am working in the inner city, working with high school kids here in Indianapolis in one of the poorest areas around. It is really fulfilling that desire.”

Here's the article: http://www2.kusports.com/news/2007/dec/25/former_jayhawk_upbeat_despite_release/ (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/260).

Here's an article about Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, a Christian, and how his style of coaching has worked through all of the years that he's coached in two different stints with the Redskins: http://washingtontimes.com/article/20071226/SPORTS01/238927720/1005/sports (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/32).

Next, an article about Dolphins wide receiver Ted Ginn, Jr., who struggled this year with the terrible Dolphins team after playing in the national championship game with Ohio State last year. Here's a quote from him about it:

"I think God just puts you in situations where he wants you to fight," Ginn said. "That's the only thing that I can take out of it ... You go from a 12-1 team (at Ohio State) to a 1-15 team ..."

Here's the article: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071228/SPT02/712280358/1066/.

Here's an article about the wives of the head coaches of the teams playing in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl (CFA Bowl) tomorrow night in Atlanta -- Linda Bowden, wife of Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden, and Suzanne Tuberville, wife of Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville -- who are all Christians. Here's a couple of quotes:

Q: How do you balance the demands of football and family? How do you get used to new towns when you move or travel?

LB [Linda Bowden]: My son was in three high schools. The first thing we do is get involved with church and Bible study. That’s been my rock and foundation. The people there don’t care about what happens on Saturdays. ...

Q: If you were going to offer advice to someone who’s new to the coaching life, what tips would you offer?

ST [Suzanne Tuberville]: If I was talking to a young woman who’d just married a football coach, I’d tell her to get involved in your church, your kids’ school, your community. You’re going to have a lot of time on your hands.

Here's the article: http://www.ajc.com/living/content/shared-blogs/ajc/social/entries/2007/12/28/catching_up_the_cfa_coaches_wi.html.

Also, an article about Mississippi State head football coach Sylvester Croom, a Christian, who turned around the football program at Mississippi State and lead the team to its first bowl game since 2000. They beat Central Florida in the Liberty Bowl last night. Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/bowls07/columns/story?id=3170858.

Here's an article about Illinois head women's basketball coach Jolette Law, who became the coach before this season after being an assistant coach at Rutgers under C. Vivian Stringer for several years. She returned to the Midwest and the Big Ten after having played at Iowa. Here's a quote from her about taking the Illinois job:

It was the call of the Midwest and the Big Ten that were pivotal in Law deciding to take this job. With Rutgers' success, she'd had other opportunities to become a head coach.

"God had been wrestling with me for some time," she said, smiling. "And Coach Stringer kept telling me, 'You're ready, you're ready, you're ready.'"

Here's the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncw/columns/story?columnist=voepel_mechelle&id=3170965.

Next, an article about the IU football team playing in the Insight Bowl tomorrow in Arizona. They dedicated the season to their late head coach Terry Hoeppner, who died last June from brain cancer. Here's a quote about IU kicker Austin Starr and Coach Hep:

The program from June’s “celebration of life,” is still in Starr’s locker in Bloomington. It’s the only one he owns, so he didn’t bring it to Phoenix.

He’s memorized the details of Hoeppner’s face printed on the cover, as well as the Jeremiah 29:11 passage his late coach loved.

Here's the article: http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/105458 (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/222).

Here's an article about Georgia head football coach Mark Richt, a Christian, and about how he's been more involved with the team as a whole this season. In past seasons he ran the offense, but he gave up that job late last season. The move has seemed to help him and the team as a whole: http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/uga/stories/2007/12/28/bowlricht_1229.html.

Also, an article about Tennessee quarterback Eric Ainge, a Christian, and about how winning their bowl game, the Outback Bowl against Wisconsin on New Year's, will define his legacy at Tennessee. However, he wishes that his legacy would be something else. Here's a quote about that:

"Wins, rings, championships, all that kind of stuff, obviously that's what everybody wants, and I understand how it works," Ainge said. "But at the same time, being remembered as a good person who grew up at the university in the great place of Knoxville and used the system to my advantage and being a good teammate. That to me is what is most important."

Here's the article: http://www2.tbo.com/content/2007/dec/29/sp-ainge-looking-to-define-legacy/ (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/401).

Here's an article about Georgia defensive lineman Michael Lemon, who has had to deal with the death of his best friend a few years ago and the murder of his mother last winter. Here's a quote about how he's dealing with the deaths from their team chaplain Kevin "Chappy" Hynes:

"Michael Lemon is a very quiet, very introverted young man," said Kevin "Chappy" Hynes, the team chaplain. "I wouldn't say he's handling it well. I wouldn't say he's not. I don't know. I do know he's internalizing it."

Here's the article: http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/12/29/sports/FBC-Sugar-Bowl-Lemons-Burden.php (originally found at: http://apps.facebook.com/sportsuperfan/teams/news/233).

Lastly, here's the NFL Wild Card Playoff games schedule for next weekend, for your information: http://www.nfl.com/schedules?seasonType=POST&season=2007#Week.

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 and NFL misc.

First, an article about an inner-city baseball academy that the Braves have helped start in Atlanta. John Smoltz, Mike Hampton, Chipper Jones, and Brian Jordan donated $75,000 to the effort and each had a ballfield named after them. Then, the Braves held a clinic there last weekend, with Chuck James and Tyler Yates, hitting coach Terry Pendleton, pitching coach Roger McDowell, bench coach Chino Cadahia, and former outfielder Brian Jordan serving as instructors. Here's the article: http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070505&content_id=1947511&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl.

Here's another article about what Cubs 1st baseman Derrek Lee is doing to help raise money for the disease that has caused his daughter to go blind in one eye: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070505&content_id=1947854&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc&partnered=rss_chc.

Next, a note about the Twins Torii Hunter, a Christian, and the Red Sox David Ortiz going to visit the Brewers Corey Koskie, also a Christian, last weekend while the Red Sox were playing in Minnesota:

Visiting hours: Ortiz joined Minnesota's Torii Hunter in visiting their former Twins teammate Corey Koskie on Saturday. Koskie, who lives in suburban Minneapolis, has been battling post-concussion syndrome and has not played for the Brewers since last season.

Ortiz said Koskie told him he is improving and might be able to return to the Brewers in about a month.

"He's doing OK," Ortiz said. "He needs some more time. But he feels way better than what he was. He was happy to see us, and we were happy to see him, too."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070506&content_id=1949101&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Here's another good article about Reds outfielder Josh Hamilton, a Christian, talking about his great performance last weekend. Here's a quote from Hamilton:

"Just to be here is a blessing," said Hamilton. "I don't need [drugs] anymore. I have God in my life. A day like today is what makes you love the game. The game's not easy. It's just fun."

Here's the article: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/gameday_recap.jsp?ymd=20070506&content_id=1949398&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb.

Also, an article about Daunte Culpepper's adoptive mother dying. It sounds like she was a special lady: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2862349.

Here's an article about Colts first-round draft pick Anthony Gonzalez from Ohio State. Here's a quote about his grandma:

Grandma lived with the Gonzalez family in Cleveland when Anthony was in high school. That's when she began blessing him before games, in English and in Spanish: "God bless you. Dios de bendiga."

The tradition continued at Ohio State, as it will this fall with the Colts. About three hours before kickoff, Anthony's cell phone will ring.

"It's the only phone call I'll take from outsiders on game day," Anthony said.

Here's the article: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070507/SPORTS03/705070336/1100.

Next, a good article about alcohol and baseball: http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070507/SPORTS08/705070373/1224/SPORTS08.

Lastly, yet another article on Josh Hamilton about his play last weekend. Here's a quote about him:

Everything about him has been impressive.

Hamilton makes sure to sign autographs after batting practice and is willing to share his story with fans who are also trying to beat addictions. He readily agrees to open up about his life, hoping that by sharing his story and his faith that he can make a difference in someone else's life.

Here's the article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070508/ap_on_sp_ba_ne/bbn_sports_showcase.