W4S features

Engaged Giving

There was more to this Super game than one might think.

Listen

One of the most important, but easily overlooked qualities that enables us to be most effective is to listen well. In an evaluation meeting with our university men's basketball head coach, among many other questions, I asked him what the players most valued from my time with them that season. He said, "You listened to them. You let them talk." While that seems very simple it was also very important to me. As I thought about this later I gained greater understanding about the value of listening to sportspeople.

Jack was the winner today!

"In 10 years, nobody will remember the score"

Highly Committed, but Irreligious

While preparing for a pre-game meal and chapel talk one day, an assistant women's basketball coach commented to me, "You're not like most of the religious people I've known." I smiled and replied, "Good. I don't intend to be religious. I would prefer to be highly committed to Christ, but rather irreligious." She said, "That's interesting." My reflexive comment to my friend was true and heart-felt and I'm still happy with it.

Highly Committed, but Irreligious

My View From the Stands

I watched two very different games but learned similar lessons

What can we learn from a tattoo?

What can we learn from a tattoo? What is to be learned from the ink below a person's skin? Tattoos are seldom either profound works of literature or wondrous works of art. They do however give us a glimpse at the heart which is expressing itself through his or her skin.

Tim & Andy

I feel hopeful when I look at these guys.

Wrong Questions / Wrong Answers

For the last fifty years or more Christian sportspeople have gained more and more visibility in their communities, in the media and in the general culture. Sometimes that has been good, other times not so good.

Thank a Coach in 2012

How about thanking coaches this year?

New Year's Eve Prayer

It's New Year's Eve in the USA. I don't do resolutions, but I would like to offer some items for prayer for the coming year related to our roles of service with the men and women of sport.

'Twas the Week after Christmas...

Who remembers waking up the day after Christmas? I don't.

Jesus = Messiah. Joseph and Mary = parents. Shepherds = fans. Angels = sports media.

¹³ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

¹⁴ "Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."

¹⁵ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

¹⁶ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. ¹⁷ When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, ¹⁸ and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. ¹⁹ But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:13-20

The Important Stuff

Sports are one of the areas in life that can belong to our kids.

You Know It's Basketball Season When.....

There are ice bags on my front lawn!

Humility

Well we have all survived college football rivalry week...and Black Friday! Believe me both were dangerous.

Champions Persevere

This is another chapel talk outline from just last week. It was a disappointing season for Saluki Football. Coming into this week's game we knew our record could end up either 4 and 7 or 3 and 8. Neither one was very appealing and neither was what we had anticipated on August 6 when we started pre-season practices.

Champions are Powerful

Each week during the last 18 seasons of college football (American Football in the USA), I have delivered a talk of similar form to the one outlined below. This one fits within a series on characteristics of champions. Please contact me if you'd like some ideas on how to communicate with competitors most directly, briefly and impactfully.

Thanks Living

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. ~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Thankful Turkeys

Turkey thoughts on Thanksgiving week!

Unity in the Midst of Chaos

Ron Brown helped two teams take a step forward on Saturday.

�Take me out to the . . . cross country meet?� - When Sports Worlds Collide

This past week has been a bounty of sports experiences for me...

Things I Love About Sports

"Tebowing" and other inspiring sports moments this week.

Community Tragedy

When a community is shaken by tragedy it stamps the moment on their individual and collective memories, awakens many souls to their mortality and creates a momentarily open door for effective ministry.

Character Wins

I miss Coach Wooden more every day. One of the stories he used to particularly enjoy telling was about Amos Alonzo Stagg.

The Power of Play

Children and sports can transcend any language barrier and impact many hearts.

Jesus as Good Luck Charm

The batter steps into the box with one foot, pulls the crucifix from within his jersey, presses it to his lips and then prepares to hit. The running back takes a knee on the sideline, removes his helmet and bows his head. He silently prays for God's help in securing a win and then makes the sign of the cross at his chest. The sport chaplain paces the sideline with his lucky Bible securely nestled in his beltline asking God for a victory and a championship, oh yeah, so the Lord would be glorified and so on.

Opening Night!

Opening night at a Chicago Blackhawks game rocks!

Through What Lens Do You View Sport?

Through what lens do you view sport? I'm not asking how good your seats are for viewing sport at the arena or stadium, rather when you're thinking about sport is your perspective one from the seats, through a television camera, from the luxury box at the stadium or from the sideline at field/court level? The answer to this question has powerful implications for how one does ministry with people of sport.

Sports Leadership

For the last couple of months I've been pondering why it seems that most of today's leaders in sport, especially those on the court, pitch, floor or field, have such limited leadership ability. I have heard numerous coaches decry the dearth of leadership among their players of both genders and at almost every level of sport. As I have observed the players of my acquaintance and heard from other coaches and team chaplains, I think I have arrived at a conclusion. . That preference limits their leadership in some very important ways.

Competitive Fire

Winning is about so much more than conquering your opponent

Going Home

NBA star Derrick Rose is giving back while locked out

Vintage Summitt

Coach Pat Summitt has impacted generations of athletes!

Vintage Summitt

Tennessee Coach Pat Summitt has influenced generations of athletes.

The Ups and Downs of Sports

How many of you like roller coaster rides? If you play and watch sports you might as well put on your seatbelts and enjoy the ups and downs that sports are sure to bring.

Sports Ownership or Sports Stewardship?

I have always fantasized about what it must be like to be the owner of a sports franchise?

There is no "I" in team

The summer following my first year playing organized volleyball, I went with two of my friends to an FCA sports camp in Pennsylvania. This would end up having more of an impact on me than I ever would have suspected.

The Quality of a Leader

"The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves."

Game-day Music

To what are the players listening on their iPods? What is going on inside those headphones and ear buds? Is there a purpose to the music players listen to prior to competition?

The Gospel According to Starbucks

I recently finished reading "The Gospel According to Starbucks" by Leonard Sweet (Waterbrook Press) and found it to be well worth the purchase price. Its subtitle, "Living with a Grande Passion" is appropriate and one idea in particular seemed very applicable to our ministry with the men and women of sport. Sweet used the acrostic, EPIC, to explain why Starbucks has done so well in capturing the imaginations of people all over the world with coffee and more.

Discipline in Training

Recently I gave a talk about the importance of discipline in training. Most of us know from experience that physical training doesn't and shouldn't come easily.

Hunger

One of Solomon's most insightful proverbs is listed at chapter 27 and verse 7, This proverb has had greater impact upon me since I've been serving internationally with sportspeople. This last week was a refresher course for me on the power of hunger; physical, intellectual and spiritual.

Expression of Thanks

Every once in a while we receive a note, an email, a text message, a facebook message or even a face to face expression of thanks that touches our hearts and fuels our souls for the next weeks, months or even years of ministry. I received such a note this week and it has made a deep impact on me. We certainly endure enough self-doubt and criticism to shipwreck even the most committed among us. One note like this one can counteract months of feelings of inadequacy, failure and insecurity.

Summer in the Gym!

Summer is a blip on the basketball calendar!

Giving Back

Cliff Forrest is an amazing kid who decided to help his hero!

Reality Check

ery year I observe parents, coaches, school athletic directors and even sport chaplains as they relentlessly drive young athletes toward the goal of becoming a "Division I student-athlete." Their rationale is overly simple, "If you work hard enough, you can earn a Division I full-ride scholarship to college." They've bought the foolish end of the American dream, "You can be anything you want to be."

Communicating with Sportspeople

We who serve the Lord's purposes in the lives of the people of sport are in the communication business. We are constantly challenged by the nuances of communication with men and women within a wide array of subcultures, accents, colloquialisms, gestures, facial expressions, postures and more. To communicate wisely and well is of greatest importance because we're charged with sharing Christ Jesus' heart with these people.

Your Micromovement

This section of Seth Godin's book has some insight for us as we lead others in the world of sport. We who are engaged in Sports Ministries are creating movements of the spiritual sort. Let's gather some wisdom from Godin's thoughts about micromovements.

The Significance of Sport Chaplains in the 21st Century

Ministry in Sport has changed greatly in the last sixty years.

Spacing to Win...in Sports...in Life

Are you spacing to win?

More from "Tribes"

Last week I quoted the book, "Tribes - We Need to Lead Us" by Seth Godin (Portfolio) and made some remarks related to application of its ideas. More of the same follows below.

"Tribes - We Need You to Lead Us"

A couple of weeks ago the book, "Tribes - We Need You to Lead Us" by Seth Godin (Portfolio) was recommended to me by Silas Mullis of Operation Mobilisation's SportsLink. I strongly recommend reading this book as its insights are most useful. The next few weeks' articles will relay some of the ideas from the book and applications to ministry with people of sport.

Out of Time

"Players with fight never lose a game, they just run out of time."
-John Wooden

Time Management

Time management is a continual issue for those of us who live in the sports world. How to balance work, family, ministry, travel, practice time, game days, study, church, exercise and leisure is a dynamic, daily process. Added to all those factors is the ever-changing nature of our station in life. The proportions of time for each of the above listed matters is drastically different for the twenty-five year old father of a new born than for the fifty-five year old empty nester.

Economy of Opportunity

After almost 45 years as a follower of Christ and 20 years of vocational ministry, I think I'm beginning to understand our Lord's Economy of Opportunity. Across those years and across several continents I have seen hundreds if not thousands of ministries which are "needs driven." Those who lead the ministries, either a part of local churches or parachurch ministries, identify the "felt needs" of a particular community, then seek to meet them as a means of expressing the love of Christ Jesus or as an avenue to sharing the Gospel. Noble goals both. However, such a focus on needs can occasionally obscure the recognition of genuine opportunity the significant impact which comes along with it.

Mentoring People in Sport

One of the unique opportunities which many of us who serve sportspeople is that of being a mentor to them. Whether coach, player or member of the support staff, we often have the ears of men and women who are seeking a mentor for various parts of their lives. Such ministry opportunities take on various forms in terms of relationship, timing, setting, method, resources and more. One should not expect that it's a "one size fits all" sort of relationship.

Sport and Celebrity Culture

One needs only glance at almost any daily newspaper or turn on the television to nearly any channel to encounter one of the most pervasive, and I believe destructive, elements of popular culture in the USA, the western world and beyond - Celebrity Culture.

Thanks Jesse!

Jesse Feehan is a special kid!

Learning Initiative through Sports

They call it initiative, I call it adventure. They call it risk, I call it faith.

Many Ways to Lead

Wheaton North basketball player AK Feltes maintained her purpose despite an injury.

Which Culture is Holier?

Culture - "The behaviors and beliefs characteristic of a particular social, ethnic, or age group." (Dictionary.com)

Over the millennia there has been a constant shift in each culture's behaviors and beliefs within particular social groups, ethnic groups and age groups. These shifts continue and it seems that the shifts are even accelerating.

High School Basketball: Senior Nite, Special Moment

One of the things that I most enjoy about working as a high school athletic trainer is the opportunity to see firsthand the special moments in sports.

Dawg Blog - Team Building

Below is an article from our university's media services department director, Tom Weber, about my work with the Men's Basketball team. I think he summed up my role with this team pretty well.

Basketball and Football Cultures

After 17 years of serving a college football team and a Women's basketball team, I have been given an opportunity to work with a college Men's basketball program.

Never

Never look down on anybody unless you're helping him up. -Jesse Jackson

Winter Sports for the Tropical Novices

It had been 18+ years since I had played in snow.

Perspective

It is just way too easy to take a healthy body for granted, and I do it all the time!

Perspective

Between the ages of 14 and 22, sports were my life.

Amateurism vs. Professionalism

The world of sport often finds itself conflicted between its two broadest divisions and standards of ethics. In the USA we see it most clearly when contrasting NCAA Basketball during March Madness and the National Basketball Association during its Playoffs. We see it when we compare College Football at any level and the National Football League. The whole world is seeing it in the comparisons made between World Cup Football (Soccer) and that of professional football played in the Premier League, the Bundesliga or any other system around the globe. The contrast between amateur sport and professional sport is often striking and very important for us who serve those who live in these various systems.

The Wheatie Bowl

As a Wheaton College graduate, I'm very proud of these guys!

Real Joy - a Player's Understanding

Below is an article written by Mike McElroy. Mike is a senior strong safety for Southern Illinois University Football. A few weeks ago I gave him a copy of "Real Joy - Freedom To Be Your Best" by John Ashley Null. Mike devoured the book and was soon anxious to discuss his insights regarding performance based identity among people in sport. Shortly after a lunch meeting and discussion, Mike emailed me this article. I hope it will inspire your heart as it did mine. People like Mike are the future of ministry in sport.

It tastes awful. And it works.

I read these words on a box of cough medicine in the voluminous "cough/cold medication" aisle of the drug store and knew I had found my cure.

Team Building

Since 2003 I have been leading Southern Illinois University's Football Salukis in some sessions we've called "Team Building." They are primarily discussions aimed at building the culture of the program by developing community among the players and by instilling the values which we want to characterize the program. These ideas have also been employed with Saluki Women's Basketball and Women's Volleyball in past seasons as well as with a few high school sports teams of various sorts in my area. In addition, several other college football chaplains and coaching staffs around the USA have called to discuss how to employ these methods with their teams and many are doing them today.

Of Barbie Dolls and 4th Place Trophies

Some may wonder what Barbie Dolls and 4th place Trophies have to do with life lessons learned in sports.

Happy New Year!

My sporting highlights for 2010

Open - An Autobiography

I am four chapters into the book, "Open: An Autobiography" by retired tennis professional Andre Agassi. I have been stunned by the vulnerability he has displayed about his relationships with his father and with tennis. He says that he hates tennis and has for his whole life. He shares very openly about how his father drove him toward the goal of being #1 in the world since the time he was three years old. It is gut wrenching to read.

Perspective

This past college football season (American Football) brought some perspective to my role with our team. For the previous seven seasons we had enjoyed unequaled success in the history of the program. We have won numerous conference championships, have been in the NCAA Division I FCS playoffs for the last seven seasons in a row and entering the season, had expectations for more of the same. We finished with five wins and seven losses on the season. Suddenly - perspective.

Teddy Bear Toss 2010

A goal was scored, the game was stopped, and thousands of teddy bears rained down on the ice! Merry Christmas!

"A Man of Sorrows"

Our Lord is "A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief." Isaiah 53:3 Many of us have become similarly acquainted with grief through our service of people in sports. The last weeks for me have been full of multiplied sorrow and grief. Earlier I wrote about a coaching friend who had come home to hospice care after science had exhausted its options for curing his particular form of cancer. My friend died mercifully quickly on Monday afternoon with his wife and two daughters present. Laid on top of that was the four day process of dying experienced by my mother-in-law. She decided to no longer take insulin for her diabetes and to discontinue her kidney dialysis treatments, effectively saying, "I'm ready to die."

Teaching Shooting and Life

For a moment she stared at me with that vacant look well known to parents of teenagers....

Sports Liars - Now some Truth

In April of 2010 I wrote about two of the greatest liars in Sport - Success and Failure. I spent a lot of time exposing their lies, half-truths and a little about the truth of their whispers, shouts and snide remarks. Here is some Truth about our worth to God, the security of our identity in Christ and our freedom from condemnation.

Expectations

What were your preseason expectations?

The Present

The present...

Wise Moves Toward A Championship

Coach Mary Wise has her Gators poised to capture the NCAA volleyball championship

Best Brother in the World

He might only play in the game for 5-10 minutes, but he sure does try.

A Season of Hope

I have a deep, deep love for anything and everything Christmas. Christmas music, Christmas trees, Christmas movies, Christmas lights, Christmas cookies, Christmas shopping, Christmas cards, candy canes, snowmen, hot chocolate....the list goes on.

Achievement

Achievement...

Thankful Sports Birthday!

In some ways, it's another sports Saturday in November...

We Love November!

November means basketball season!

Doing the Lonely Work of Your Passions

...it all began, once upon a time, with the rules of the red rubber ball

A Day in the Life of a Sports Guy

This past week I had to cover a four day girls intermediate basketball tournament at our school as an athletic trainer.

Sporte Diem

12 Kids in a box watching the Blackhawks!

Responsibility

Responsibility...

More Practice?

Do you ever get tired of practice?

I Miss You, Coach!

Coach Wooden would have turned 100 this past week. I miss him.

A New View from the Dugout

Because I started the graduate assistantship midway through the fall season, Saturday was my first time officially assistant coaching during a game.

Teammates- Galatians 6:2

The highest act of loving God can be accomplished by loving the people He's put in our lives.

Perseverance

When the world says, "Give up,"
Hope whispers, "Try it one more time."

Getting It Done

Army Sgt Robert Miller gave his life for his team.

Connections That Matter

Do your best to make that relationship something that matters...

Humiility

Humility is seen in how slow you are to criticize another. The more prideful I am, the more quickly I jump to judgment. -Rick Warren

Re-Education of a Sports Guy

Can you really teach an old (sports) dog new tricks? For the last fifteen years, I have worked within high school sports as an athletic health care provider.

Character

Isn't it interesting what athletes will say when we give them a chance to talk....

Dynamic Ministry

The following article is used with permission from Roger Lipe's website for chaplain's http://sportchaplainsportmentor.blogspot.com

Sports Films with Significance #4

"Invictus" - This film tells the story of how President Nelson Mandela used the influence of Rugby to help unify South Africa across ethnic and cultural barriers.

Sink Your Teeth Into This Fish Story!!

Fisherman Frank Yarborough got quite a surprise when his fish bit him!

When Someone Tells Me...

When someone tells me the is only one way to do things, it always lights a fire under my butt. My instant reaction is, I'm gonna prove you wrong.
-Picabo Street

Care

I learned an important lesson about how to show care from my recent trip.

Sports Films with Significance #3

"Hoop Dreams" - This film follows two young basketball players from the housing projects in Chicago. It tells a sometimes despairing tale of their lives and their dreams that basketball will be their tickets out of this life.

A Reason to Ride

Last Sunday, I pulled out of my driveway and saw packs of bicyclists.

Overtime: Sports Gratitude

It’s a Friday night in September...and I am at home. For the last fifteen or so years, most of my Friday (or Saturday) nights in September have included working at American high school football games as an athletic health care provider.

Checking Egos

Does it thrill me to call for and watch an outstanding, timely play executed for victory because of the joy it gives my athletes, or because of the way it reflects on me? Is it for my ego, or for their success?

Love

"Do not think that love..."

Sports Films with Significance #2

"Remember the Titans" - This movie about two high school football which were merged due to racial integration in the USA. Watch the relationships which are layered throughout, coach-player, player-player, coach-coach, white-black, white-white, black-black, coach-community and even more.

What a Blessing!

I am excited about this season. What a blessing to be the coach of this team.

Are You ready For Some Football?

It's opening weekend in the NFL!

Sports Movies with Significance - #1

"Hoosiers" - There are layers of relationships developed in this film and many are authentic to lives in sport. It displays a number of broken people and how sport sometimes helps them restore their relationships and even their own sense of identity.

The Richest Person I Know!

While preparing to deliver a talk on leadership for a set of interns studying and working in international sports ministry, I was struck right between the eyes by a new angle on a scripture which I have read for decades. As I have talked with these interns over the last few days I have been struck by how free they are. Many had gone to college and had completed their degrees without a dollar of debt due to their athletic scholarships and they are now contemplating a life of service to Christ in countries which they could not spell just a month ago. I was inspired by their liberty and took some time for personal reflection about my own pilgrimage over the last decade.

Defining Moments

This has been a big week in the global world of sport. In the USA, the NBA finals wrapped up with a game 7 win by the Los Angeles Lakers over the Boston Celtics. Across the rest of the earth, the World Cup of football has dominated the last week and will the next three weeks. During those contests and more so in the post-game shows has been a steady stream of analysis, opinion and pontificating about who's among the best of all time, comparisons between Kobe and MJ, historical comparisons between teams of eras gone by, nationalistic disgrace or pride and defining moments for players, coaches and game officials. Such moments are the subjects of often repeated replays, from multiple angles and with seemingly limitless opinions and second-guessing from self-appointed experts.

Hyper-Average

I'm watching the and thinking about how the sports world, especially the sports media, lives in the world of superlatives. Everything is spoken of in the loftiest or most base terms. Extremes rule the world of sport. He's the fastest, the tallest, the richest, the heaviest, the strongest, the smartest, the most cunning, the best, the most famous, or the brightest. She's the least, the worst, the most horrible, the slowest, the worst teammate, the most foolish or the last chosen. I, on the other hand, am Hyper-average.

A Not Quite Perfect Game

Armando Galarraga may have missed making history but he sure qualifies for the "Class Act" award!

Coach Dick Corn's Points of Emphasis for Players' Parents

A coaching friend of mine shared his notes for proper Coach / Parent relationships with his teams over the years. This coach won over 700 high school basketball games and a couple of state championships in Illinois. His list could be helpful to you and/or to those whom you serve.

Unexpected Rest

So often we rattle around inside and experience deep restlessness. Even when we are in peaceful settings trying to find rest, it can seem beyond our reach.

Performing Under Pressure

Sometimes the pressure of win or lose moments can either paralyze an athlete or bring out the best in them.

Coach vs. Cancer

A couple of times over the last two years I have written about a coach friend of mine who is in a battle with melanoma. I have been writing him once or twice a week with a scripture to read and a prayer to pray. He has responded amazingly. I gave him a "Coaches Bible" just over a year ago and he reads two of the devotions and one chapter of scripture daily. I saw his wife at a function on Good Friday and she said, "He reads his Bible every morning. If you had told me that 18 months ago I would have laughed at you."

"I got fired yesterday."

A couple of weeks ago I received a phone call from a coaching friend who had just been fired. Our lengthy conversation was full of pain, disappointment, frustration and feelings of betrayal. I was helpless to do anything except to listen, to care and to assure him that God knew and cared about his situation.

Listening to the Right Voices

In each instance I was tempted to give up, if I just held on for the few minutes beyond what I thought I could do, victory was hiding right around the corner.

A Bold Move

LPGA player Yuko Mitsuka took a bold step and suspended herself from the golf tour.

Comfort in Chaos

Our service of the people of sport is often mundane and slow. There are hours of standing and watching a practice, long bus rides or plane flights to endure along with occasional doubts about the wisdom of such use of time. At other times we're in a vortex of noise, confusion, anxious personalities, screaming people and indecision. To serve effectively we must find a way to be comfortable in such chaos.

2009 Saluki Football Teambuilding

Below is a summary of the teambuilding process I conducted with Southern Illinois University Football last season. I have found this sort of process to be very effective in building community within the team and in developing the culture of the program as shaped by values. I hope it can serve as a model for your ministry. Please feel free to email me if you would like to discuss it further.

Coaching Staff Expectations

A few weeks ago I heard this presentation from Southern Illinois University Head Football Coach, Dale Lennon, as he outlined the expectations he has of his coaching staff. I took notes and later thought how these same expectations could well apply to our role in serving people in sport.

The Quality of a Person's Life

"The quality of a person's life..."

What Do I Put On?

Notes from a talk by Brad Long of Indiana FCA at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Sports Chaplain Conference in Kansas City, Missouri - February 2010

"What do I put on to serve coaches well?"

It's Good To Be A Dad!!

I read this post in ESPN.go.sports and I thought it was such a great story!

Sports World Values

Below are some notes I took during a talk by my friend and colleague, Ashley Null, at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Sports Chaplain Conference in Kansas City, Missouri in February of this year.

Sports Liars

There exist in sport two liars of the highest order. They lie to novices and to sport's most highly achieving. They lie to both the obscure and the most famous. These liars fluently speak every language on the earth and deceive without conscience or conviction. They both whisper and shout with equal effectiveness. These masters of deception never tire, never take a day off and never worry about being caught. They monitor every practice, match, game and even one's most private thoughts and emotions.

Shining Moments

Basketball season is officially over. Sad day!

I am a FANATIC!!

I went to Dayton to watch the FSU women and they rock!!

Sweet, Elite or the One who DEFEATS?

I've been mesmerized by the NCAA basketball games this week.

What the Heart Loves - part 6

"What the heart loves, the will chooses and the mind justifies."

Part 6 - How Faith Becomes Divisive in a Sport Team

"The gospel is an offense to those who are perishing." "The Lord knows those who are truly His." "We are doing ministry the right way." "Jesus came not to bring peace, but a sword." "The real believers attend out study." "The highly committed players go to our church." "If he was a real Christian he'd be working with our ministry."

Real Game

I've been called many things but this was a first...

Bracket Dreams

I would like to tell you about my friend Nikki, also known as Nikola. She is nine going on about 22 and regularly has something to say about a very large range of things.

Join the wired4sport NCAA Bracket Challenge

Join the wired4sport NCAA Bracket Challenge and win a free wired4sport shirt!

What the Heart Loves - Part 5

"What the heart loves, the will chooses and the mind justifies."

Part 5 - Abuse of Players.

"This makes him tougher." "We're breaking his will to then build him back up." "This is really good for her." "She needs this discipline to rid her of foolishness." "We're a winning program, but he's a loser." "You don't deserve to win." You're not worthy of wearing this uniform." "This team is for winners. You're a loser."

It's March Madness Time!

It's March Madness time! All over the country folks are playing in conference tourneys chasing dreams to qualify for the NCAA tournament.

What the heart loves - Part 3

"What the heart loves, the will chooses and the mind justifies."

Part 3 - A Christian look at the "Win at all costs" ethic in sport.

Enjoying the Mud

Soccer has always been a very important part of my life.

Don't Let...

"Don't let..."

Training for training's sake or training for adventure?

As I walked my dog, I noticed many cyclists in our neighborhood

What the Heart Loves - Racism in Sports

"What the heart loves, the will chooses and the mind justifies."

Part 4 - Racism in Sport.

"It's not fair to the sport to hire under-qualified coaches." "We are keeping undesirable influences out of our game." "We are the guardians of the purity of our sport." "I am protecting the game from outsiders."

I Am So Proud To Be An American!

An Athlete's View of the Olympic Opening Ceremonies

What the Heart Loves - Part 2

"What the heart loves, the will chooses and the mind justifies."

Part 2 - How do Christian competitors justify their use of performance enhancing drugs?

My Daughter is the Best!

Once when I was in college, I came home to tell my Dad how unfair I felt my coaches were.

What the Heart Loves Part 1

From the moment I heard that statement in April of 2007, it has served as a glaring spotlight into the deepest recesses of my soul. It was spoken by my friend and colleague in sports chaplaincy, John Ashley Null, in summary of the 16 century Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer's writings. Ashley has been translating Cranmer's work from Medieval Latin shorthand into contemporary English.

New Seasons of Sport and Life

I was driving around the small town I live in when I spotted a little restaurant selling Chicago dogs!

Unexpected Inspiration

If you've been following the Winter Olympics at all the last few days then you know the tension that has been felt for the "home town" crowds as they have been anxiously waiting for a Canadian athlete to win the very first Olympic gold medal on home turf

Air Bound

With the Olympics upon us, we will soon all become expert critics of fine details during each performance we view. We will have to remind ourselves that just participating in sport can be a thrilling experience.

Divided Loyalties

Like many sporting fans in the United States this past weekend, I watched the Super Bowl.

The Sport of Living

I loved playing in the dirt and tossing the ball into the sky. It was a grand introduction to the world of sport.

Super Bowl 44!

God, Family, Football....

Cuba Trip Journal - 2010

Monday October 25 - By 5:30 I was awake so I finished the book I had been reading and waited for the hot water to turn on at 7:00. I prepared for the day and then at 7:45 we walked to breakfast at the Hotel Habana Libre. We returned, I wrote thank you notes and prepared for our 9:30 trip to the airport. We talked with our hostess at the casa while we waited and then crammed five people and two big bags into a Peugeot sedan for the 30 minute trek.

Honduras Trip Journal

This is an excerpt from my trip journal when I was in Honduras, Central America.

Respect

Coach Michael Cooper had a moment.

A Daring Adventure

"...a daring adventure, or nothing."

Five Levels of Sports Leadership

Leadership in Sports is often overstated and is mostly underdeveloped. Many times what is valued as leadership on a team is actually the lowest form of leading and perpetuates an immature leadership model.

Words from the Saluki Football Chaplain- Rookies Talk - August 2008

Gentlemen, welcome to Carbondale and Southern Illinois. Since 1994 Saluki Football has produced around twenty-five All-American players and at least a dozen of our players have gone on to play football professionally. In the past 14 seasons we've had four head coaches, dozens of assistant coaches and hundreds of players. Since 1994, we've gone 1 and 10 twice, 3 and 8 three times, 4 and 8 once, 5 and 6 three times, and most recently, we've had at least 9 wins per season - three conference championships and NCAA playoff appearances 5 straight times. We were one play away from playing in the national championship game just nine months ago. I have to tell you, winning is a lot better than losing. It's not close.

Developing Emerging Sports Leaders

The development of young sports leaders is a subject of great interest to me and to thousands of coaches around the world. Many of them recognize the lack of on and off-field leadership among most sports teams. Another problem is that most of us have no answers to the question of "How do we go about developing such leadership among our players?"

If you don't have time...

There's Nothing Like A National Championship!

Every Game Has A Story

Kingdom Coaching

My team lost a game to a team that we should not have lost to.

Over-coached?

"I wonder what would happen if I just threw a basketball onto the gym floor in my P.E. class and gave them no instructions. How long would it take before someone organized a game or came to me to ask for directions?" An area High School Head Basketball Coach posed that question as we discussed the lack of leadership among his players.

Unexpected Life

It's Christmas morning and the house is asleep, except for my early bird husband who is at his desk reading his Bible and listening to Christmas music.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from wired4sport

Celebrating the Marathons of Life

I participated in another marathon recently.

"Don't Give Up.. Don't Ever Give Up"

Coach Valvano was about passion, friendship, and commitment.

Am I ready? Are you ready?

In a few days, I will be running a marathon...am I ready?

A Running Story To Be Told

Bill Leach believes running can slow down violence in Chicago.

Who's Got Your Blind Side?

For a sports enthusiast like myself, a good date night means that we watch a sports-themed movie.

Tradition

November and December are months that are full of tradition.

The Winning Point

Ever since I was a little kid my Dad taught me the difference between right and wrong.

I am thankful for.....

I'm really glad I'm not a turkey......

A (Birth) Day in the Life of One who Loves Sports

As one who loves sports and who recently celebrated a birthday, I thought - if there is ever a time to celebrate life and sports, it should be on your birthday.

Unexpected Power

The disciples found unexpected power when they asked Jesus for help, and so did I.

My Favorite Competitor

There is something about this kid that makes me love watching him play.

Somewhere Between "Good Luck" and "Good Game"

Thoughts on seeing my daughter's first-ever competitive volleyball game...

The Grass Stains

My niece Michelle has a Co-ed softball team called "TheGrass Stains."

Milestone Achievement Celebration

I went out for a date night the other night with my wife...and kids...to a sporting event. In the process, we witnessed a milestone sporting achievement.

Happy 99th Birthday!

Today is John Wooden's 99th birthday!

Notes on Team Travel

Let's think for a moment about the various ways we have traveled to and from competitions across our lives in sport. Low rent or first class, those who play their hearts out find joy in the journey.

Public Life / Private Life

It has happened again, a sportsperson's private life has invaded his public life and another furious storm of controversy has erupted. A high profile college basketball coach has found his indiscretions from six years ago suddenly coming to light with brutal clarity and startling consequences. The details are still coming out in the mass media of his adulterous affair, the resulting pregnancy and the payment for an abortion, all leading to accusations of extortion by the formerly pregnant adulteress.

Unexpected Jesus

He would have been an amazing coach.

Not Found in the Box Scores

You probably won't find this bit of information in the box scores of any newspaper, but my son - Nathan - scored 4 points in a basketball game today.

Blessed Beyond Measure

This past weekend I had the joy of attending a former student's wedding.

The Need For Speed

There are no gold medals for mediocrity!

The Hope of S.A.D. Athletics

At first glance, you might think the author of this article is confused? Au contraire!

Tragic Loss

Recently the USA Sports world grieved the tragic loss of a high profile, recently retired professional football player. He was shot several times in his sleep by his mistress, 16 years his junior, who in turn killed herself. It was a horrible tragedy and a too common occurrence. The media jumped on the story and they have danced all around the issues related to the killing, but have not really dealt with the central question, "Why does this kind of thing happen?"

My Balcony Person

I read a book called "Balcony People."

If you get hit, hit back...with intentional kindness

My beloved Chicago White Sox did not make the play-offs this year.

Coach Tuke

"Who's speaking at chapel tomorrow?" That was the pivotal question in my relationship with Coach Tom Matukewicz of Southern Illinois University. We were walking off the football field after a Friday practice and I simply told Coach Tuke who our guest speaker would be. He continued, "I'm thinking I ought to pray." I chuckled and thought to myself, "That's a good idea, coach, you ought to pray."

A Zambian Proverb

Fast or Far?

True Hero

Sept 11 is a great day to celebrate heroes!

Worth Remembering

On January 24, North Carolina State women's basketball coach, Kay Yow died after a decades-long battle with cancer. With more than 700 victories, she was one of the winningest college basketball coaches in the nation, men or women.

A True Gentleman

Bob Hailey was a true gentleman. He was kind and loving, loyal and faithful. He was an inspiring football coach and a tremendous teacher. He was a loving husband and a nurturing father. He was a devoted grandfather. He was a committed Christian and church leader.

Condition

In the heart of John Wooden's pyramid of success is condition.

One Giant Step

It was forty years ago today, Monday-July 20^th, 1969 that American Neil Armstrong stood on the moon. His famous words "one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind" will forever be etched in our minds.

David vs. Goliath All Over Again

One of my favorite things about sports is the wonderful fact that anyone can win.

"O Lord, Please Help Us Win Today"

How many times have you uttered that prayer, either under your breath or out loud? How often have we asked the Lord Jesus to intervene in the course of human history so we could get a win and not a loss?

N.E.O - S.I.U. - AF2 - LA

I remember the first time I noticed quarterback Sherard Poteete on the practice field. It was during spring practice at Southern Illinois University and he had just joined the team after transferring from Northeast Oklahoma A & M.

Seeking To Understand by Suzanne Baker

Race issues are challenging, and working at them is the best way to change, and heal!

Take Me out to the Ballgame!

Please enjoy this week's article written by my Mom as she shares with you her very first experience at Boston's beloved Fenway Park!

The Last Day of Baseball

This week I hope you enjoy hearing from my daughter Jamie as she describes her last little league game this season. Jamie is wired for sport and to her parent's delight plays with enthusiasm and great sportsmanship. You go Jamie!

Satisfaction

Satisfaction would seem to be one of the most elusive commodities on the planet. In the world of sport it is not uncommon for a sideline reporter in the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl to ask a player or coach for his thoughts and to hear, "We're going to win it again next year!" The game isn't even over yet, but the player is already thinking of next year.

Celebrate Good Times

When I was a teenager, Kool and the Gang sang the song - "Celebration"

Rachel Alexandra is a beast!

A girl wins the prize!!

I Will Not Let Myself Down

"I've worked too hard..."

Taking the Extra Step

I have enjoyed watching my son play in his first organized volleyball league this spring!

On the PGA Tour

One of my favorite pastimes is golf. I love to play, although I am not very good. It is always enjoyable to just get out, especially in the spring, and experience God's creation.

Ambition

Ambition is a word which evokes strong reactions from people. Some see it as a powerful tool for accomplishment while others see it as a terrible vice to be avoided at any cost.

Resolve

Among the greatest qualities which make for people who play their hearts out is resolve. The competitor with resolve is totally focused on his or her goals and will not quit until there is a final score.

Too Busy Not to Play

Ed and I made our annual trek into Boston last week to see the Boston Red Sox play the Cleveland Indians.

Resignation

Over the last few weeks I have walked through some of the darkest days of a friend's career in sport. She had never failed at anything, but the last two seasons of her coaching career had been a constant nightmare.

Overtime

The term "OVERTIME" has been a term and a concept that has invaded my life recently.

The National Anthem

I've probably heard the National Anthem 10,000 times. For the average fan, it signals the start of another game. But for the coach, it sometimes means the end.

Trading Up

This offseason Mike Vrabel was traded from the New England Patriots to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Late Bloomer

Last week, I got a call "out of the blue"

Reflections on College Softball

This spring I have had the privilege of relationship with several college softball players at our university. I have been to a number of their games through February and March and took some notes about the things which characterize this game and its culture. Most of them are things unique to softball and some to this particular team.

My First but not Last Boston Marathon

Although the physical reminders of the Boston marathon are slowly fading away...

Sport as Worship

Am I the only person who gets more spiritually enthused by pre-game warm up exercises at a college football game than by any overly dramatic worship service at church on Sunday morning?

Line Up!

...I was just so happy and grateful to be in line!

Winners vs Losers

A powerful word from Pat Williams

Of Tiaras and Tennis Racquets

It is springtime - and in the world of American high school athletics...

Easter Sunday

Empty grave...... Full Heart

Good Friday

Today is Good Friday

Without Wax

In Pat William's new book "Souls of Steel" there is an entire chapter dedicated to the character quality of integrity. According to Williams, the word integrity comes from the Latin adjective integer, which means "whole" or "complete".

Our Ocean Project

Please enjoy this week's article from my six year old son, Sam. Thank you Sam for sharing your passion for learning!

Good Cop / Bad Cop

You have no doubt seen on television or movie police dramas when detectives are interrogating a suspect and their process has stalled, they will often employ a tactic called, "Good Cop / Bad Cop." This same scenario is used by some coaching staffs to get the best from their players.

Sports Dog

Every dog must have his day...

His Year

Our basketball team didn't have the opportunity to make it to the big dance this year.

Rich Man Poor Man; Poor Man Rich Man

Rich man, poor man...

Reflections on High School Basketball

Over the last couple of weeks I've watched a lot of high school basketball here in Illinois. We have a 4 class system with the smallest schools being Class 1A and the largest Class 4A. Each class seems to have a different style about it, even here in the rural, deep south, end of the state.

Synergy

One of the things I have always loved about playing team sports is the unspoken connection that sometimes exists between players on the same team.

Hoops City Baby!

A small college in the Midwest has become the darling of the city as they compete at home in the sweet 16! March is awesome!!

We have this hope....

We have all kinds of hopes when it comes to the world of athletics. No doubt you have whispered a sentence of hope at some point in your athletic career. Hope is an important aspect in life...especially our spiritual lives.

I've Been Sucked In Again

Have you ever seen the Peanuts cartoon story line of Charlie Brown and Lucy starting yet another new sports season...

The Third Winter Sport

Now that spring is starting to come to New England, I was reminiscing with my six year old son, Sam, about all the things he had done over the winter.

A Rare Act of Sportsmanship

In 20 years these players will not remember their record, but they will remember what happened that night.

Does Your Heart Float?

Would you describe your life in sport as a steady, calm float down the river toward success or more like a terrifying series of rapids, ups and downs, splashes and moments of panic on the way to who knows where?

Great Aloha Run - Generation 2.0

For the last few years, every President's Day in mid-February, I have participated in something called the Great Aloha Run.

Unexpected Win!

Today is March 2...

Frustration

What is it that most frustrates you when you compete? Is it when you fail to accomplish what you had expected? Is it when your teammates fail to hold up their end of the competition? Maybe it's when your expectations exceed your abilities? It's easy for people to say; "Don't be frustrated," but we who play our hearts out don't find that so easy.

Sportsmanship

The coach never considered any other option

Character and Sport

It has been trendy in the last fifteen years for people to say things like, "Sports build character." Some have said, "Losing is good for a team, it builds character." Others have tossed the whole conversation aside as they have seen less than exemplary character displayed by sports people, on the field of competition and off of it. What do you say about the issue of character and sport?

Familiar Sports Seasons, Familiar Sports People

As the spring season of sports begin...

Sticking With the Sox

Recently Jason Varitek made it public that he would like to retire with the Red Sox and I for one hope that it happens.

Highs and Lows

I began to reminisce and think about my own favorite aspects coaching.

Making the Cut

...the sports tryout experience from the perspective of a parent of a seventh-grade boy

Basketball score - 100 to 0: What do you think?

As word has spread nationally and internationally about a Dallas area high school basketball game, I was wondering what different people - who love sports - think.

They Called Me Coach

For thirteen years I was called "Coach."

Significance in Sport

This is possibly the most annoying thing in sport today. The media seems fixated on adding significance to sporting events by dredging up the most obscure statistics and stories to spice up their reporting.

When Sports Heroes Fail

Why are we surprised or shocked when sports heroes fail?

Thank You, Coach Yow

One of the most respected coaches in women's basketball history, Kay Yow, went home to be with her blessed Lord and Savior Saturday, January 24.

The Textures of Sport

What does it feel like when your baseball bat hits a ball dead center and sends it screaming into the outfield? Some of us know how that feels in our hands and that feeling calls us back to the ball park again and again. There are a number of textures we feel on our skin that is the pure essence of playing one's heart out.

Hero

The recent news of the Indianapolis Colts football team's head coach - Tony Dungy - stepping down...brought a bit of sadness to me.

Restructuring

In December, the Arena Football League owners made the decision to cancel the 2009 season.

The Master in the Art of Living

The master in the ART of living makes little distinction between his work and his
p l a y...

Practice Values

What are the values you carry in your heart for practice? Many of us have a strong set of values for how we approach game day, but how do those match up with our attitudes toward training? If we're intent on playing our hearts out, they'll be very similar.

When Coach has a Meltdown

There is an old saying, "The smaller the stakes, the bigger the fight." It doesn't get much smaller (or bigger) than ten year-old tackle football.

Toughest Girl on the Planet

Have you had to endure some pain to compete in your sport? How much and how often did it hurt? How would you handle daily, intense pain and would you endure it for four solid years? I watched the toughest girl on the planet do just that as she played her heart out.

Love the Game

How much do you love your sport? Is it something for which you make sacrifices? What are you willing to give up so as to compete at your absolute best? What will it cost you to play your heart out?

Motivation: "I Love This Game!"

I Love This Game!

I Love Discipline!

I admit it, I'm attracted to discipline. I like boundaries, expectations, and yes, even rules.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from all your friends at wired4sport!

Swagger

I hear it every week on television sports broadcasts and occasionally from the mouths of players and coaches, "We play with a swagger..." "This team has a real swagger about it." What do they mean when they say it? From where does swagger come? Is it a good thing or not?

Tweeners Between a Rock and a Hard Place

Between a rock and a hard place...have you ever heard that term?...have you ever been there?

Local Sporting Events Are Like Christmas Gifts

I enjoy watching athletic events all year long and I find them to be a little bit like Christmas.

Marathon Reflections

This past weekend, I ran a marathon.

The Emotions of Sport

Sport brings with it a series of risks. We regularly risk injury, misunderstanding, disappointment, frustration, failure, loss and more. If you play your heart out, the risks are even greater, especially the emotional ones. Trust me; it's worth the risk to taste the wide variety of emotions which bring richness to life.

Eve of Another Marathon

It is marathon season ... again.

The Sights of Sport

We who compete in sport have the great privilege of seeing things that most people never see. Our perspective on sport and competition is distinctively different from what fans and even sports writers see.

The Politics of Play

Our new President is very engaged in the world of sport.

The Blur of Sports and Life

While there is a certain beauty to explaining and photographing the motion of sports and life, the blur of sports and life motions can - many times - produce a "fuzzy" picture.

The Aroma of Sport

I love the aromas associated with sport. I recall vividly the smells, both beautiful and not so pleasant, from my life of playing my heart out.

Shopping is A Sport Today!

Tips to being a "superstar" on Black Friday.......

The Joy of Sport

I saw the picture...and I remembered...what a joy it is to participate in sports!!!

Heart Balance

No matter the sport, one of the keys to performing well is balance.

"First Brick of The New House"

Last week, Westmont College was ravaged by fires. This is a story about rising up out of the ashes that is reprinted by permission of the writer, Ron Smith.

The Sounds of Sport

I love the sounds of sport. There are powerful echoes in my mind from decades of competition and playing my heart out.

Dependable High Quality H2O

I just enjoyed a drink of water.

Size of the Fight

A quote by 5'9" Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin

Strength Training

I am intrigued by the concept of strength.

Five Years of Pain

Just prior to the start of a recent pre-game chapel a player stopped by my table and said that he'd like to talk with me. I said we would talk after the pre-game meal. As most of the room had cleared I walked to his table and asked him what I could do for him. He began to tell me of the five years of regret he has suffered because he didn't tell his grandmother that he loved her prior to her untimely death in their home on this very date.

Five Years of Pain

Of Comrades-In-Arms and Pinky Promises

...the last thing you want to do is commit to waking up really early in the morning to run a 30 kilometer (18.6 mile) race scheduled for 5:00 am the next day...

Lost Treasure

As soon as Ed pulled out the first coat I knew that he had uncovered a lost treasure.

Pop, Ouch!

"What am I doing here? I'm 45 years old and I'm playing racquetball with two college heptathletes. Yeah, they're girls, but they're college athletes!" Those were my thoughts as I played cut-throat with two of SIU's finest track and field athletes one summer afternoon.

Group

A group mentality can have many meanings. We've all heard the words "peer and pressure" paired together; usually attached to some sort of negative connotation. Recently, I've begun to wonder about the possible positive aspects of peer pressure, specifically how it relates to the world of sport. As I began thinking more about it, I realized that my high school cross country team is a great place to observe the pressure that comes from peers.

A Most Important Team Sport

Today, I participated in a team sport. It is a sport that I have the great privilege to participate in.

What Gun?

She is crouched at the back edge of the circle, the shot cradled under her right ear, chalk coating her strong right hand and her mind is tightly focused for the throw. Her powerful right leg is coiled in anticipation of the coming explosion of energy.

Starting, Ending, and Finishing Races

"My country did not send me (all the way here) to start a race. They sent me (here) to finish one." - John Stephen Akhwari

Moment to Moment

What are you doing this moment?

Oh Kevin... what a game 7!!

Boston vs Tampa.. the Sox and the Rays.

Inspirational Panther

The Pinckneyville High School Panthers, in the heart of southern Illinois, have a remarkable tradition of outstanding basketball teams, but the team from the winter of 2000-2001 holds a special place in the hearts of many.

A Sporting Sister

When I was in college many years ago, I visited my cousin...

Sixteen Years

A couple of weeks ago I had the wonderful opportunity to talk with several of South Africa's top sportspeople about their sport careers.

Don't Call My Mom

"I don't know where my dad is. Don't call my mom; she'd just make a scene." That was the response to my offer to contact the player's parents as he was lying on the emergency room bed with both his tibia and fibula broken at a 45 degree angle to the rest of his leg.

What I Love About Sports

I can't remember what I ate for breakfast, but I remember the Dodger roster from the 70's.

Team Sports Community Love Affair

In many regions of the United States, there are big and small communities of people that enjoy particular sports.

A Good Sign

There are challenges to every coaching job. Some challenges differ from sport to sport and some are universal. For me, one of the most difficult and challenging parts of my job as a softball coach was communicating to my team using signs and signals during the game.

The Old Shanty

I recently snuck in a trip to the beach before the upcoming basketball season.

Black and Blue

Chicago is fired up about the baseball playoffs!

I'm Straight Rog

It was a cool, overcast day in Springfield, Missouri during the late 1990s when I witnessed one of the gutsiest athletic performances of my lifetime. Karlton Carpenter was in the process of setting the single season rushing record for the Football Salukis of Southern Illinois University.

Sports Legacy

Twenty-nine years ago, in the first week of school at a suburban Chicago high school - a new history teacher tricked a ninth grade boy into coming out for the school's cross country team.

Perseverance Pays

Mike Anello, who didn't even play football his junior year of high school, is a walk-in turned scholarship player for one of the most reveared college football programs in the country. To me, he is the picture of perseverance.

Just Stitch It

Ryan Hallahan is a police officer for San Diego P.D. in southern California. For two years in the late 1990s he was an outside linebacker for the Football Salukis of Southern Illinois University. The toughness and humility which makes him a good police officer was in full display on the football field one afternoon in Carbondale.

A Small Slice of Heaven

Have you ever thought of what heaven would look like to a sports junkie?

Go Hurricanes!

Last week the skies opened up in the Midwest and we got pummeled!

I'll Be Right Back

Coach Rod Sherrill, formerly of the Football Salukis at Southern Illinois University, told me this story of an opponent who played his heart out and stunned Rod and his teammates.

Opponent ≠ Enemy

From my earliest days in sport I can recall the attitude, held by many, that opponent = enemy. When competitors are stating the score, I have heard and said, "Good guys up 10-7." I remember a long-time college and professional football coach saying in very explicit language and without any pang of conscience, "They the enemy!!" Many of us would join him in such statements. Most of us would have to confess to a less than charitable attitude toward our opponents. Let's investigate this a little further.

Slow Down the Sequence

Recently, I have started going to the golf driving ranges here...

60 x 4 x 11

After years of various injuries and fear of not being able to do what I was able to do while I was younger, I have enjoyed getting back to jogging.

Aim

Watch your aim!

Game Day for a Chaplain

This is an account of a normal game day during a college football road trip in my live as a sport chaplain at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. I am normally an early riser, but even more so during such trips. I will get to be very early on Friday evening and awaken well before dawn.

New Training Partner

Every year for the last five years, I have signed up for the Honolulu Marathon...

Welcome Home!

A veteran and captain of the United States Gymnastics team, Sacramone had high expectations of bringing home the gold both in individual and team events.

Top 11 Ways You Know You've Watched Too Many Olympic Events

Ourt family got addicted to the Olympics this summer!

Character Counts

The Closing Ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympics were almost 2 weeks ago. I miss the Olympics. We all have our favorite sports that we follow throughout the year, but when the Olympics come around we find ourselves watching sports we would never follow EXCEPT that it's the OLYMPICS and it REALLY counts!

The 20K Walk

Our family got addicted to the Olympics this summer.

There Is No Offseason

A particular t-shirt caught my eye with the slogan - "There Is No Offseason"

Someday I'll Wear Blue

I look at every competition as a chance to improve, to do my best and yes, even to win.

Working Concessions, Meeting Olympians

Monday, September 1, begins a new year of weekly stories for wired4sport.

Thanks for joining the wired4sport community to promote the value, integrity and love of sport!

Transplanting Passion

MONDAY, September 1, will begin our new year for wired4sport! Stay tune for all new stories, updated weekly!

Thanks for joining the wired4sport community in promoting the value, integrity and love of sport!

For the Sake of the Cause

What does Track have to do with saving the planet?

Blind Faith

Relocation and job change are major stressors for all of us. Swin Cash is heading to the Seattle Storm for the '08 WNBA season. After 6 years with the Detroit Shock, this will be a major transition.

Memories and Lessons

Pat Summitt's classy move after an opposing player went down taught my girls a great life lesson.

Legends...in Others' Eyes and Mouths

For the summer, we will be changing the home page story every Monday to give our writers time off. We will resume our daily feature stories in mid-August. Thanks for logging on to wired4sport.com!

The Moment

I was sitting in the locker room during my senior year before the most important game of my high school career and quite possibly my last. I had dreamt of this situation my whole life.

Tight Spot

What should you do when you get into a tight spot or in over your head?

Taking a Stand

During the summer, the home page feature story will change every Monday to give our writers some time off. We will resume daily feature stories on August 15. Thanks for reading!

One of the things that I appreciated about coaching at a Division 3 Christian College was their hard stance against competing and practicing on Sundays.

An Incomplete Player

For the month of July, the home page stories will change every Monday to allow our writers some time off this summer! We will resume daily home page features in August! Thanks for reading!

For most of my life as a competitor I was terribly incomplete. I desperately loved the sports in which I participated, I was always conflicted in my heart about how to compete.

Do Shoes Really Matter?

For the month of July, the home page stories will change every Monday to allow our writers some time off this summer! We will resume daily home page features in August! Thanks for reading!

Dear Mark,

Sportswriter Bob Frisk recently retired from the Daily Herald. On his way out, he wrote a letter to his grandson Mark.

Coach Josh Franklin

It's the best-case scenario for a coach. You resign from coaching immediately after winning the highest level championship for which your team can compete. That was the scene for Coach Josh Franklin of Cobden Appleknockers Softball.

Pressure

Tiger Woods won the US Open under tremendous pressure. Here's his positive take on pressure.

Let Yourself Play

It's summertime here in the U.S.A!

Keep Moving

Boy, I've been exercising a lot lately! Not really. It just seems that way.

Each One is Special!

As a coach, I made intentional efforts to help the team recognize, appreciate and to be thankful for the people around them-their teammates, opponents, fans, and officials.

Classy Act

LPGA golfer Lorena Ochoa has been described as having an "inner light"

Recreation or Competition

Having just finished a three day camp for 10-13 year olds this week, I am more aware than ever of the difference between Recreation and Competition.

S.A.D. Basketball - No Regrets

About a dozen years ago, I played in a three-on-three basketball tournament at a local high school...

Worth the Wait

A few weeks ago I wrote an article called Anticipate. I explained that to anticipate is to expect or hope for something. And as readers may recall, I was anticipating my trip into Boston, after a three year hiatus, to watch the Red Sox play.

Game, Set, Match or Game, Set, LIFE!

I am a chaplain AND a physical education teacher. My days often put me situations where I can help kids make good choices for life. Recently, as I taught tennis rules to my class, one outspoken girl told me that her dad used this rule- "when in doubt, call it out." This referred to calling your lines in or out of bounds.

Glory Days

It's my brother's birthday today...

Hungry Players

I was recently in the Central American country of Honduras. While there I met a number of men who compete in fast pitch softball in the two largest cities of the country. They are hungry, even desperate to compete.

Neighbor Girl

I like living in the community that I live in...

Untangle Your Hose

I noticed something while working in my garden.

Focus

Ryan McGeeney is my new hero!

College Baseball Players

I watched a college baseball game this afternoon and made some observations about the young men who play the game. Southern Illinois University was hosting Creighton University in Carbondale. SIU had a four pitcher combined no hitter through 8 and 1/3 innings, but gave up a two run single before closing the game out with a 5-4 victory.

True Strength

What does it mean to be strong? What is true strength?

A Lifer

My father took me to my first Red Sox game in the 1950's.

Worth Another Look

You've likely heard the story by now, seen this picture or read about it on this website, but it was such a rare display that I thought it was worth taking another look...from a chaplain's perspective.

NFL Draftee or Free Agent?

For the last several years I've been watching the development of a quarterback at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. I serve the team as their chaplain and the quarterback is Nick Hill. He was recently signed to a three year contract by the Chicago Bears.

Nicole's Big Toe

Nicole is a track athlete at the high school I work at.

What's the Score?

Why do we place so much value on the score of a game? The easy answer is I guess because scores matter.

An Extraordinary Act of Sportsmanship

"Magical and Crazy" is how one player described the attention they have received.

Autographs

Why do people ask athletes for their autographs? It happens all the time and all over the world. Players are asked to autograph footballs, baseball bats, helmets, bases, tickets, shirts, soccer balls, game jerseys, hockey sticks, gloves, and seemingly every except jock straps. Why?

Run for the Roses Postlude: Thrill of Victory, Agony of Defeat

..."spanning the globe to bring you the wide world of sports...the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat"

Why Do You Play?

I was recently talking with a professional fast-pitch softball player and was stunned by how little money she made. She is at the highest level of play in her sport, but the salaries in her sport are quite small. I asked her why she continues to play for such little pay.

The Well-Timed Volleyball Spike...of Life

One of my most favorite images in all of sports is the volleyball spike!

Values for Life in Sport

Last week I was to speak at a fund-raising event for a local sport club and sharing the program with me were two professional athletes. One is a now retired baseball pitcher who played for twelve years in the Major Leagues. The other is presently playing professional fast-pitch softball in both the USA and Australia.

High Profile Teammates

In a recent conversation with a former Major League pitcher, I asked him about one of his high profile teammates. The teammate was one of the greatest players in the history of the game, but has come under tremendous scrutiny in the last several years. He has been regularly accused of cheating the game, of being rather boorish toward the media and quite aloof from his teammates.

Perseverance in Sports and Life

Perseverance: determination, insistence, urgency, firmness, resolve.

Bucket List

I have a list of things I want to do or experience before I die. I guess you might call this a "bucket list" (to borrow from the recent movie title).

Celebrate!

Celebrate with us!

Ji (Gee)...what a neat guy!

I had an opportunity the other day to meet up with and interview Ji Xiang - a 6'9" tall basketball player for the University of Hawaii.

Know a Good Mechanic?

I love to watch the Red Sox play, but more than that I love to coach and teach the mechanics of good ball playing.

The Same but Different

I just returned from a conference in Phoenix, AZ. Officially, it was the 2008 WNBA Chaplain's Conference. It started on Friday and ended on Sunday afternoon and there were volunteer team chaplains from 11 (out of 14) WNBA teams in attendance, as well as a Volunteer Chapel Coordinator and two Chapel Advisory Board members.

Results

"I've always believed..."

Inspiration

"I coach people, not basketball."

Why is Winning so Important?

I recently watched a Division I Women's Basketball game from the visiting team's bench in the gym of their strongest conference rival. This game and the brief moments after the game were a vivid reminder of why winning is so important.

Fantasy Sports Parenting

Sabermetrics...the science of quantifying baseball as described by SABR - the Society of American Baseball Research.

The Smell of Spring

For me, I have always known that spring has sprung when I walk outside in the morning and smell one of the best smells in the world.

Passion

Sport is a tremendous part of our lives because it allows us to express passion.

Fear of Failure

From countless discussions with competitors in various sports I have been struck by how many of us are driven by a fear of failure. Sometimes it has been a factor used by those who most highly achieve and at other times it has been a paralyzing force.

Injury and Isolation

I was watching a college football practice recently and saw a player pull up with a pulled hamstring. I watched as he limped toward the sideline, but collapse before getting past the numbers. He crumpled to the ground as the trainer reached him. I watched as his position coach moved the other players and their drill ten yards up the field and continued the practice. It was like nothing happened to most of them, but to the injured player time stood still.

A Beautiful Reward

I am a Pentucket Sachem alum and so I was naturally intrigued and pleased to read about a team honored from my alma mater. I was equally pleased because the coach of the girls track team, is a man that I have known since kindergarten.

End of a Career

Through my 51 years of being a player, a coach, an official, a parent and now a sport chaplain / sport mentor, I have seen hundreds of careers start quickly, flourish powerfully, diminish painfully and end suddenly.

An Email regarding team and life

I was driving home from town tonight and I was thinking about a few things...

Exposure

There is a rock climbing term called "exposure" where certain moves are harder to make simply because the climber is aware of the big drops to one side or other. It is psychologically harder to climb the rock that your brain is yelling at you that it isn't safe because your eyes can see danger.

Happy Easter

He is Risen!

It is Friday, but Sunday is coming.

The darkness of Good Friday is what gives me hope.

An Elusive Character Trait

When I asked a group of high school athletes what it meant to be humble, one student answered, "To be embarrassed". He was likely thinking of "humiliation" (a word derived from "humble"), but his comment lead to a great group discussion about how it can be embarrassing (to some people) to be humble.

Why Compete?

Do you ever get a little frustrated with people who don't want to keep score? I have friends who want to go play golf, but not keep score. I don't want to play with those guys. I tell them, "Just go to the driving range and don't clutter up the golf course." What's the point in playing the game if you don't compete?

Super Bowl, Super Bowl Friends, Super Friends

It's been a few weeks since the Super Bowl was played...at our house, it's always - an event.

At the Aquarium

Readers may recall my son Sam's previous story about his love of Beluga whales. He received great feedback and promised to write another story detailing his experience at the Mystic Aquarium where he met three beautiful beluga whales. We hope that you enjoy his story.

A Fine Piece of Paper

Filling out brackets is partly formulaic, but primarily conjecture. Your heart will cause your pen to write down predictions that seem crazy.

The Difference

The difference between something good and something great is...

Teammate, Uncle, Friend

My 12 year old son - Nathan - and I recently ran the 8.15 mile Great Aloha Run.

Football Coaches

While attending the Illinois Football Coaches Clinic in Champaign during March of 2007, I observed some things about those coaches.

That's Ridiculous

I love a good basketball game.

Intrinsic Motivation

Figuring how my son's wiring helped him set up a workout routine.

Lock It Up!

Though it is only late winter/early spring, I am thinking about (American) football. Why is that?

Beyond the Numbers

Please welcome Angela Linsalato Shaw, one of Jen Bell's former softball players, who is pinch hitting for Coach Bell today! Thanks for your story Angela, it's a hit!

Character Tests

Sport provides character tests with each competition, practice session, team meeting, training room appointment and recovery period. We are tested throughout the process by success, failure, frustration, fatigue, disillusionment, pain, indulgence, pride and more.

Small Steps

My friend Adrian Williams-Strong (WNBA-Sacramento Monarchs) gives good advice. "There are no such things as small steps with God. I believe that even the smallest sacrifice is a huge step for God. My small steps were learning to trust in God despite how I felt."

"Together, Forward, Together"

When students returned to the NIU campus last week they were met by a very intentional welcoming committee.

Playing for the Roar of the Crowd

My eight year old nephew is pretty quick.

Watch Your...

Watch...

The Right Mix

it takes the "right mix" to make the perfectly chilled 10 gallon cooler of Gatorade

Where Are The Leaders?

I have noticed an alarming trend in sport over the last several years. The leaders have disappeared. I see it when watching both high school and college athletics teams. Many of the teams with which I'm familiar seem leaderless and their coaches are pulling their hair out.

A Real Champion

Have you ever been in the presence of a real champion?

Tips for Staff Transitions

Through my fourteen years of service as a sport chaplain with college football, basketball, volleyball, baseball and other teams, I've endured several staff transitions. Some were due to resignations to take new opportunities and some due to firings. Either way, they're not easy do deal with for the staff or the chaplain.

Life Lessons of Being First or Last

I always prided myself in being fairly athletic and coordinated enough at least to be picked either first or second to play on any given team in any particular sport.

Appreciated

It's been a busy day today. Our athletic training (athletic health care) room resembled McDonald's during a lunch rush hour.

Losing

A quote about losing...

I Hate Losing!

There is nothing to rival the emotional pain, grief and deep feelings of inadequacy which come with losing. If you're a competitor, you know these feelings and you do all you can to avoid them.

All You Need Is...

Our last game was against the team that gave us our one and only loss.

When the Unexpected Happens

I had heard of it happening to other chaplains. I had read about it, even talked with a chaplain who had experienced it. But never had I even come close to what occurred this season.

Priceless

What in life is priceless?

No Joke

"Softball season in New England is a joke." Yes, someone actually said that to me once. I took the comment in stride, however.

Compete Your Heart Out!

Since I've been able to stand up, I've been a competitor. My great-aunt was fond of telling the story that as a two year old, I would be standing in the front yard with a ball and bat yelling, "Play ball!" I grew up with two younger brothers and pretty much all of life was competition, even dinner.

He lost the tournament, but won anyway

Phil Mickelson paid attention to way more than golf during the recent FBR Open.

Every Second Counts; Every Little Thing Matters

For four years, I have hoped and dreamed and trained (okay, maybe I didn't train as well as I should have or could have) and ran.

Beautiful Feet

Did you hear the one about the barefoot basketball coach? It's true. Ron Hunter, head men's basketball coach at IUPUI (Div. I) in Indianapolis, IN, coached a Jan. 24^th game wearing absolutely nothing on his feet.

Enjoying the Mud

When I think of universality, I usually think of people who have the same language, same culture, and basically the same way of life.

Take a Different Route

I love to get out and run in the morning.

Wired to Compare?

Are you wired to compare yourself to others?

Marathon Prep

I was recently asked about how I did in the Marathon this year...

"Hard Fighting Soldiers"

Chette Williams', author of "Hard Fighting Soldiers", passion and living faith come alive in this simply elegant touching work.

Head Coach Promoted

I loved coaching! When I was asked to drop one of the sports I was coaching and become a full-time faculty person I really struggled.

First Quarter

Just last week, I had the opportunity to see again for the umpteenth time the wisdom of the words my father always said, "Try to finish STRONG."

If you want to sit down, do it on offense

The coach was furious "never get tired on defense.. it's unacceptable."

Run for the Roses

Though it is only January, I am thinking of May.

A Book for All

I knew from the start that male and female coaches share similar highs and lows in the profession. After my recent reading of Quiet Strength by Tony Dungy, I was reminded that we all seek the SAME LORD in our trials.

Not Just Some Assistant Coach

"Who is that?" I asked Ed. He replied, "I don't know, just some assistant coach." I thought about his reply, certainly said without any intention of disrespect for the man or his role as an assistant coach, but at the same time it communicated something.

A beautiful thing

"She has done a beautiful thing to me" said Jesus to the lady with the expensive perfume. (Matthew 26:10, NIV). This is my comment when I view a personal apology to an athlete who was just fouled in a game.

ACL

I know of one term that strikes a myriad of thoughts, feelings, and emotions for people in my profession...

Fun Times Under the Sea

Every week I sit down to write an article for wired4sport. Most often my kids are close by and they have learned that I do this because it gives me great pleasure to write about things for which I am so passionate. For several weeks, my five year old son Sam has asked if he could write an article for wired4sport. He wanted to write about beluga whales.

Never Too Late!

Since she was a young, I tried to introduce my niece to a variety of sports.

How You Know You've Been Watching Too Much Football

January is a crazy month for football. Our family came up w/ a list of how to know you've been watching too much!

Baseball, Basketball, Football, Avocado Ball?

So what exactly is avocado ball? It's simple, really.

It Ain't Over 'til it's Over!

Readers know that I am a competitor. If I am going to compete in something then I will play to the finish, the final out, the end, the last whistle, the final buzzer! You can imagine my dismay and confusion then when one by one my family members dropped out of the game.

Self-Confidence

When your self-confidence goes up, so does your net worth!

Being First!

Jennifer was recently been named the National Men's Coach of the Year by the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

Happy 2008!

Some old thoughts to help you celebrate and ponder the New Year.

Merry Christmas!

MERRY CHRISTMAS from your friends at wired4Sport!

Take Your Ball And Run With It!

Kevin Everett won't ever bust another wedge, but he will hold his children, and he can climb flights of stairs on his own, and he will walk a daughter down the aisle. After all, it is the season of giving and family and miracles. Merry Christmas!

Real Peace

He comes to us, not to shield us from the harshness of the world but to give us ...peace-HIS PEACE.

We can't be tired!

"We love the game...we can't be tired."

Missing Practice Is No Fun

Concussion, sprained wrist, dislocated knee. Most student athletes are familiar with these terms. Some had had these injuries over the course of their high school athletic career, but having them all in one season? Most don't, I did.

Motivated

As an athlete I was always motivated best when my coach laid it on the line for me. I needed to be challenged with the reality of the situation, no need to sugar coat it for me. Just tell me what needed to be done and I would do it!

Love That Nip in the Air

I love that the seasons change in New England.

Disasters in the Kitchen

Two weeks ago my daughter and I set out to try and make Christmas cookies.

The Most Dangerous Sport?

I am sitting at home on a rainy Sunday evening.

Late Learner

I am not much of a skier. Although I love to ski, I am just a novice. I can do it, but it doesn't look pretty.

Happy "First Day of Snow" Day

We celebrate lots of weird "holidays" in our family

Practice

The best and the worst...

Making a Point

Coaching is a huge privilege...

Kitchen Ping-Pong

I've been reading through a book recently entitled, "A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future" written by Daniel H. Pink.

Top Ten List of Names for Sports Teams

wired4Sport First Ever Top Ten List!

The volleyball "ready" position of life

I just sent a belated email birthday greeting to our dear friend - Teresa.

The Frozen Freshman

One of my first years of coaching, I had recruited a young player to play softball for my team. She was a dynamite outfielder, had a high batting average, and a great personality to boot.

Opportunity

Don't miss opportunity...

Happy Thanksgiving!

May you have a wonderful Thanksgiving counting all your blessings!
Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at wired4Sport!

East West Sports Buffet

It was a nutritionist's nightmare for sure, but it really brought about my two different cultures...and on a cold winter day in Midwest America...it sure tasted good!

Gratitude

A quote to live by...

Safe at Home

In anticipation of Thanksgiving, I've been thinking about all of us who will be going home, going to someone's home, or simply staying home.

A Perfect Saturday

wired4sport welcomes Roger Lipe as a contributor to our website. Roger is the chaplain for the Southern Illinois University football team. He shares from his unique insider's perspective on college football! The following are excerpts of his personal journal about the 2006 Southern Illinois University vs. Indiana University Football game.

Girl Power!

"Girls on the Run" is a national program designed to help girls discover new things about themselves.

Underlayment

What does your foundation look like?

Vanishing Treasure of Sport: Humility

...it was a bit of a slow game, I decided to ask him a coaching question that would make him think. I asked, "Stanton, why is humility important in sports? He had to think awhile as humility doesn't come naturally in our society.

Never Alone

I have always loved being on a team. I can't think of a time in my life when I haven't been on one. Although the teams I have been on lately haven't been athletic teams, I believe the benefits are the same.

The Best Day of Her Life

The day Marion Jones decided to tell the truth was the day she began to truly live.

A Valuable List

I absolutely love the month of November. Football games get pretty intense and basketball season truly gets started, but that isn't the only greatness about this month.

Sports Choices, Life Choices

The dilemma of choosing the right running shoes made me reflect on the choices I make in life.

Timing Is Everything

Since the clocks changed this past weekend, it got me to thinking about time and timing. In sports, as in many other pursuits, timing is everything.

Oh Captain, Our Captain

I am blessed to be a part of a wonderful field hockey program at a small school in New England. Field hockey has been successful at our school for years and has graduated many players to college programs around the country. We have had great coaches alt all levels, a supportive community, helpful parents and many wonderful athletes.

A Night at the Beach

Our family recently enjoyed a beautiful night at the beach... playing all kinds of sports.

Moments

I've been thinking a lot about moments. Days are made up of moments...one after another, almost imperceptible opportunities hidden in the things that fill up our days. Moments turn into hours, hours turn into days, and days turn into months. November is here, how did that happen?

Girls Just Want To Have Fun

Today is our first game...but yesterday was Halloween!

Beginnings, Milestones, & Discoveries - When "Jessie Got Her Kip"

Do you remember the first sports skills that you learned? Do you remember the "feeling" it gave you? What was it like? Do you remember the first sports skills that your children or other children learned? What was the "look" on their faces? What was the "look" on your face? What was the "feeling" in your heart?

In A Pinch

I like the concept of pinch hitting and pinch running and have always been impressed with athletes who are called on to perform in a critical situation.

I love kids!

I love kids. Have you ever noticed how much they have to teach us?

Natural Recruiters

My first teaching and coaching job taught me a lot that I could not have learned in college. Often times experience is truly the best teacher.

Why Do You Play Sports?

Some random thoughts of American high school athletes written on the wipe board of their athletic training room...

PLAY Ball!

Last night I watched the Boston Red Sox clinch the American League Pennant. I was, like so many, thrilled that they won. But it wasn't just that they won the pennant that made me so happy to be a part of "Red Sox Nation" again.

Hardwork and Fun?

Hardwork and Fun...

Delayed Gratification

I waited 35 years to see a game there, and it was quite the scene with over 80,000 truly fanatical football followers filling the Rose Bowl.

One Step At A Time

One week ago, I am happy to report, I ran my first 10K road race.

A Good Sport

Though the Cubs didn't make it to the next round, they have an oppportunity to show they are good sports!

I Love To Surf!

There is just nothing like the beauty of the ocean.

And the Answer is....

So much for a high stakes contest for a t-shirt. Maybe I should have offered up a matching baseball cap!

Nenhum Medo Da Falha: No Fear of Failure

Where does fear come from? Why is it so often related to performance and/or failure? In sports and in life?

Hard to Break Habits

We all have habits. Some are good, some are bad, some don't make any sense, and some make perfect sense.

Weaknesses

Quote on weaknesses

Major League Change

There is, one major league CHANGE that I would make in MLB...

Winning or Losing As A Team

Team sports are beautiful, and the rules are clear..... you stick together, or you go home.

WIN A T-SHIRT!

How would you like to win a free t-shirt?

Phat Pat: The Joy of Sports and Life

How much joy do you get in playing sports? How much joy do you receive in living life? When you think of someone who exudes the joy of sports, who do you think of? Who - in your world - really "breathed" joy into sports and "lived" life?

A Promise to Will

I don't usually cry when I watch athletic events. Well, there was that one time in 1986 when a certain Boston first baseman let a ball roll through his legs, but that's a different story. But as I watched Will not only play but play well, I started to tear up.

Inferiority

An inferior quote...