1993 December - Vol 7 Num 10

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The Radio Si e of SS liE FACf that Ken Van Prooyen is the producer of a national spor1s radio program is proof of poet William Cowper's words: "God works in a mysterious way His wonders to perform."

What Van Prooyen knew about spor1s 4 years ago would have been rivaled only by how lillie he cared about the subject.

But he knew about radio. As director of technical services for Radio Bible Class, KVP is an electronics master, and he especially enjoys working with the audio medium.

Shor1ly before this magazine became Sports Spectrum in late 1990, Van Prooyen saw value in doing the same kind of thing on the air that we do on the printed page.

As he contemplated the prospects, one name kept coming to mind. Ken had heard Chuck Swirsky on WGN in Chicago, and he had a feeling that "the Swirsk" just might be the person to help get Sports Spectmm on the air.

Yet he didn 't know Chuck and had no way of gelling hooked up with him- until he talked with Phil Shappard of the Moody Broadcasting Network in Chicago and ment ioned his idea to him.

"I know Chuck," came Phi l's surprising response. And he knew that Chuck was a follower of Jesus Christ.

Soon Ken (the no-nonsense non-sports fan) met Chuck (the

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no-nonsense sp011s aficionado), and explained his vision for using radio and sports to promote the gospel. Out of that meeting and many hours of behind-the-scenes work, Sports Spectrum rad io was created. On August I I, 1990, the first program- a one-time pilot broadcast- hit the airwaves as Chuck chalted with Paul Molitor and Gary Carter. By October, the program had a permanent home: Noon Eastern time on Saturday.

There were 36 stations on the Sports Spectrum network.

More than 150 programs later, Sports Spectrum radio is still going strong. Along the way, the number of stations has grown to more than 200, and Sports Spectrum radio has added another outreach-Sports Spectmm Updates, a series of three daily sports reports heard each morning on many stations.

Now Ken Van Prooyen not only knows a lot more about sports than he ever cared to know, he even likes sports- a lillie. But his key role is still to keep the technical side of things humming so the man who really knows sportsChuck Swirsky--can do his thing.

Chuck graduated from the broadcasting program at Ohio University. From there he did spor1s report ing in Cleveland, Columbus, and Seallle, before heading to the Windy City for a stint at WCFL. He still recalls with chagrin his first call-in sports program in Chicago, during which he had 6 hours to fill and no callers to talk to. Well , one woman did call, but she had the wrong number. Chuck kept her on the line for 20 minutes anyway.

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Now, in his job as sports director at WGN and in his out reach with Sports Spectrum , Chuck has listeners by the thousands. We hope you are one of them.

Ken Van Prooyen and Chuck Swirsky are vital players on our team as they bring you the radio version of Sports Spectrum.

If you'd like to know where you can hear this program, call 1-800-653-8333 (during business hours Eastern time).

Two Special Editions THE 1994 SUPER BowL and the World Cup of Soccer will each be marked by a special edition of Sports Spectrum magazine.

The January version of this magazine will be devoted to football- as key athletes help us find life-changing answers to heartfelt problems. Many groups across the Atlanta area will be distributing copies of this special Super Bowl edition of Sports Spectmm.

Then we will tum our allention to soccer. Subscribers will receive a World Cup edition as their March copy of the magazine. Between then and July 17 when the tournament ends, hundreds of thousands of copies of this edition will be given out across the country.

To find out more about these two opportunities for outreach, write to us at Sports Spectrum.

Dave Branon, managing edi tor Sports Spectmm

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Saint wade the Humble Wade Wilson 's success is a real surprise in NewOrleans,andforan NFL quarterback, so is his attitude

by Allen Palmeri

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Point Man As he leads the Seminoles on the field and on the court, Charlie Ward leads by action, not by words

by Dave Branon

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: CoveR: T OM DIPACE, (INSET) CouRTESY: FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY; P. 2 ( TOP) JoNATHAN DANIELIALLSPORT, (BOTTOM) Boe R osATo; P. 3 (LEFT) STEVE B ABINEAU, (RIGHT) M ICHAEL A. SCHWARZ; P. 6 J ONATHAN DANIELiA LLSPORT; P. 7 B RIAN S PURLOCK; P. 8 JoNATHAN D AN IELiA LLSPORT ; P. 9 JoNATHAN D ANIELIA LLSPORT; P. 10 DAVID PRESTON; P. 11 DAVID PRESTO N; P. 12 ( TOP) R IC F OGELiSPURLOCK PHOTOGRAPHY, ( BOTTOM LEFT) B RUCE B ENNETT, (BOTTOM RIGHT) TOM D IPACE; P. 13 T OM DIPACE; P. 14 BRIAN S PURLOC K; P. 15 J ONATHAN D ANIELiA LLSPORT; PP. 16· 17 BRIAN SPURLOCK; P.18 R OSS 0 BLEYIFLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY; P. 19 (LEFT) Boa ROSATO, ( RIGHT) T OM DIPACE ; P. 20 (TOP) B RIAN S PURLOCK, ( BOTTOM) AL TI ELEMANSID UOMO ; P. 2 1 M ELCHIOR D IGIACOMO/B RUCE BENNETT STUDIOS; P. 22 (LEFT) C OURTESY: MEM PHIS STATE UNIV ERSITY, (RIGHT) C OURTE SY: M IKE H ALL; P. 23 B EN VAN H ooK/D UOMO ; P. 25 STEVE BABINEAU; P. 26 STEVE BABINEAU; P. 27 (L EFT) STEPHEN DumiiA LLSPORT, (RIGHT) D AMIAN STROHMEYERIALLSPORT; P. 28 M ICHA EL A ScHWARz; P. 29 NATHANIEL S . BuTLERIN BA P HOTOs; P. 30 (LEFT) M ICHAELS. ScHWARZ, (RIGHT) A NDREw D. B ERNSTEINI NBA PHOTOS.

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The Leader of the Team A look at what makes up leadership

by David Egner

The Hawks' new guard Craig Ehlo joins his old coaching staff in transition

by Sam Woolwine

24 Taking the Blue Line to Boston The road from Huntington Beach, California, to the Boston Garden has been a long one for John Blue

by Lois Thomson

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Leaderboard Joe Allison

by Bill Sorrell Mike Hall

by Doug Perkins Latanya Davis

by Jim Gibbs

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Waddy's World

by Watson (Waddy) Spoelstra

Teams To Watch

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Up for the Cup, Hoops Roots, A.C.'s Video, Kinchen Help

World Cup Watch Getting Ready for the Biggest Show in Sports: The Top Prize in Sports

by Dave Branon Scott Cook

by Jennie Chandler

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Ace returns from Sports Spectrum readers SS Fan Poll

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The Cleveland Connection

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Clippings

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Airing It Out Taking Out the Trash Talk

by Dave Branon

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Stats Central compiled by Rob Bentz

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The Swirsky Report

by Chuck Swirsky

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Legends Catching up with Dean Prentice

by Tom Felten Voi.Jme 7, Nurrller 10 SPORTS SPECTRUM MAGAZINE A DISCOVERY HOUSE PUBLICATKlN. PUBLISHER Dave Burrham: MAflAGING EDITOR Dave Branon: MARKETING/PRODUCTION MANAGER Tom FeiiOn; PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Rob Bentz: ART DIRECTOR Steve Gief; GRAPHIC DESIGNER laurie Nelson; ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS Usa Ouis\ Beverly FlyM; ADVI· SORY COMMtnEE Chuck Swirsky, Sports Oiree!or. WGN RaOo. Chicago: Dick Mason. President, Discovery House Pubhshers: Ralph Orolinger, President. Sports Outreach America; Kyle Rote Jr., President, Athletic Resource Management

SPORTS SPECTRUM Is produced 12 tJmes a year by Discovery House Publishers, which is affiliated w•th Rad10 Bible Class. a nondenom•nabOnal Christian organization whose purpose is to lead people ol all nations 10 personal faith in Jesus Christ and to growth in His likeness by teaching princlp!es from the Bible. Printed In USA. Copyright C 1993 by Discovery House Publishers, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Bible quotations, unless otheiWiS& noted, are taken lrom the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright O 1973, 1978, 1984, International Bible Society. Used by permiSSion of Zondervan 81ble Publishers. Freelance writers should query the 1 editor by ma1lfor writers' guidelines. SPORTS SPECTRUM subscriptions are a¥ailab1e for $18.97/twelve issues or $23.97 out· skle tho USA (in US lunds) to SPORTS SPECTRUM .

Box 3566, Grand Rapids, Ml 49501·35S6, toll tree 1·800·653·8333 , or a FAX to 1·616·957·5741

SPO Rl"S S P ECTRU M · D ECEM BER

1 993

For Subscription Services:

CALL TOLL FREE:

1-800-853-8333 ·New subscriptions, change of address, or other corrections 3

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Toronto team, as well as our October issue with some good news about John Olerud. -Ed.

Happyfoa' Monthly I would like to say that the magazine is great- I li ke it a lot. I'm glad it's coming out every month now. I would also like to see articles on Brian Harper and Rick Aguilera of the Minnesota Twins.

Thanks! God bless you, and keep up the good work.

-CHARLES OLLER

Coon Rapids, MN

Blue Jay Backea' As a recent subscriber to Sports Spectrum, I was very impressed after reading my first issue. I am an avid baseball fan, and though the Blue Jays are my favorite team I liked teaming about the other players you featured too.

I realize that as an American magazine, your interviews and coverage of the Toronto Blue Jays will be limited. However, I hope that you will investigate their team more closely, as a large number of players and their wives are professing Christians.

I hope Paul Molitor will be in your magazine in the future.

After all, he used to play for an American team.

Also, I am very impressed that there are so many Christian athletes who are willing to share their faith and in so doing are excellent role models for young children and university students too. I plan to share your magazine with many of my fellow university students.

- JANE LUMSDEN

Prisonea' Pa'oject Pa'oponent I would like to compliment you on your wonderful magazine. I am a major basketball fan, and it is great to know that there are moral Christian athletes.

I would also like to thank you for starting the "For a Prisoner" project. It gave me a way to know what I was giving a portion of my tithe to. I have enclosed a check for this fund.

If possible, please send me some information on who this subscription will be going to.

AM out of Oak Hill and Beckley, West Virginia.

I was looking through some of my old SS magazines and noticed that since the name change (from Second Look) in November/ December '90 through March/ April '92, about 80 percent of the features listed on the cover dealt with the "big three" (baseball, basketball, and football).

I noticed that since then about 50 percent have focused on the big three. I enjoyed the magazi ne more when it had the prior emphasis. Although I enjoy reading about other sports, I prefer only one major feature and a few smaller articles per issue.

Just something to think about.

-NATHANIEL WILSON

We always let each contributor know the name and address of the prisoner for whom they have provided a subscription. If other readers are interested in participating in this project, simply · send $17.97 per subscription to SS and let us know that the subscription is 'for a prisoner."

Thanks! -Ed.

Kitchener, ON

It makes no difference to us if a team is American or Canadian.

We would not favor one player or one team over another because of nationality. I hope you enjoyed the September issue, Jane,featuring Joe Carter of your 4

Big 3, Please Thank you so much for your radio program and fine magazine.

I enjoy the balance between stats, trivia, and testimonies. I am excited about your magazine going monthly, and I regularly listen toSS radio on WOA Y 860 S P O RTS S P EC TRUM • D ECEMBE R 1 993

Once again, thank you for your encouraging ministries.

- KEVIN WILKINS

Beckley, WV

Woa'ld Cup Query As we gear up for our special World Cup edition of SS, we'd like your help. Send us your response to this question: What difference will having the World Cup in the US make on the state of soccer in N011h America?

Sports Spectrum Letters Box 3566

Grand Rapids, Ml 49501-3566

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Sports News Worth a Second Look

Michael Jordan attended pregame chapel infrequently in his nine seasons with the Chicago Bulls. He'd be there now and then, mostly then.

Once inside the chapel door he'd call: "Pastor, I'm here."

Henry Soles, Chicago pastorjournalist, has been teaching the Bible in sports ministries for nearly two decades. A TV special at the last NBA championship series identified him as "missionary to the Bulls."

Soles says, "Michael was always warm and approachable in chapel. He'd listen respectfully when he was there. When he asked for prayer, it never was for himself." Jordan's basic time restraint dealt with press relations. NBA chapel convenes an hour before gametime. Players have fragments of free time, but the media is in pursuit. Obviously, Michael was prime target. Jordan began his Chicago career in late summer of 1984. Soles remembers: "He was besieged by the press even then." He could have learned from Dr. J ., the superstar Julius Erving. The Doctor came to Chicago as a committed Christian in the last few years of his career. When the media closed in, he would say: "See you after chapel."

That was it. Dr. J. had spoken. Erving's strong personal witness still has impact. He says, "I found meaning to life in Jesus Christ." A decade

seat on the bench when Fred and radio voice Jerry McGriff arrived. Sid, hurting Howarth never miss. Chapel coordinator David Fisher on the inside, didn't sulk or holler. He waited on the top reports active Bible studies. dugout step when McGriff Seven players are involved. connected. He invited Fred to The wives reach 13 at their chapel. Bream's leadership own study. Olerud, AL bathas turned the Braves into ting champion, and his wife an outstanding chapel group.

Kelly are new believers making an impact.

Walt Wiley is coordinator.

One October Sunday the WHITE SOX AL West: later the Chicago media is chapel count was 31 with Outfielder Mike Huff talks it bigger and more demanding. only four players missing. up for chapel. His help J ordan couldn't find a way Pitcher John Smoltz and comes from bullpen coach out. Soles didn't have inside catcher Greg Olson assist Dewey Robinson and relief information on the October Bream. Along with Smaltz, ace Roberto Hernandez. At morning when Jordan made pitchers Steve Avery, Tom 235 pounds, Roberto is good his stunning retirement Glavine, and Greg at nudging. Dale Craft is announcement. "I wasn't sur- McMichael are regulars. coordinator. Outfielders prised, though," he says.

Warren Newson and Lance PHILADELPHIA: NL East: "My chapel theme Johnson assist. A Saturday Outfielder Milt is that basketball Thompson Bible study for wives earned is only a slice of Long-time sportsremained faithful big numbers. Christine life, not the whole writer Watson when chapel Burke drives in from pie." Last winter (Waddy) Spoelstra, turnouts lagged.

Indiana as teacher. Christine a scribe for the has four adopted children, Soles had talks His spirits were Detroit N ews for with James lifted when relief Ryan from Guatemala, Jordan, Michael's 30 years and Stephanie and Nicole from pitcher Roger founder of Baseball Mason showed father who was • Korea, Wayne from Chapel, takes an murdered in a up. "Roger's conVietnam. That calls for highway robbery. inside look at some sistent walk with babysitting by husband Tim He says, "James key people in basBurke, who pitched eight big the Lord encourexplained that the ketball, baseball, ages everybody," league seasons. and golf family never says coordinator moved its memJack Hibbard, TV Six Ryder Cup golfers and their wives attended a hisbership from the country executive. One Sunday a high church where Michael and of l l showed up. Relief pitch- toric international Bible the others were raised. The study before the Americans er Mike Williams is solid. church was home to them.

Support comes from pitchers won out in September at The That same church was where Danny Jackson and Larry Belfry course in England. they had memorial services Andersen, infielders Ricky Paul Azinger, Corey Pavin, for the father."

Jordan and Kevin Stocker, Jim Gallagher Jr., Chip Beck, and outfielder Jim and Lee Jansen were there Sunday worship services at Eisenreich. John Hibbard along with Bernhard Langer, the park for big league teaches men's Bible study. representing Europe. Larry ballplayers start in spring His wife Carolyn is there for Moody, PGA Tour Bible training. For most teams the wives. They're Jack's teacher, gave the message. this means 30 chapels. Diviparents.

Some 350 attended a Sunday sional winners have two or • TORONTO AL East: Usually service at the 18th green on three additional services in : the Blue J ays have a dozen the final day. Anglican vicar October. These are chapel Bruce Gillingham spoke on : at chapel. Check the lineup trends for divisional champi- • card. Robbie Alomar, Joe the seed, the Word of God. ons, listed alphabetically: Carter, John Olerud, Paul This was appropriate. The ATLANTA, NL West: Sid Molitor, and Tony late Samuel Ryder, who Bream, a mature believer, Fernandez. All chapel guys. founded the series, was a vacated first base and took a Batting coach Larry Hisle corn merchant.

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SPORTSSPECTRUM•DEC E MBER1 993

HROUGH THE YEARS,

he's heard the words ringing in his ears. Written long ago by a man named Peter, the words have guided Wa de Wil son throu gh Sunday s filled with padded viol ence in cities throughout th e National Football League. " Humble yourself, therefore, under God 's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time" ( I Peter 5:6).

Humble yourself indeed. The career of Charles Wade Wil son , a man who will turn 35 on February I, has been a pi cture of obs tacl es overcome by humility.

Humble

yourself

through various quarterback controversies in Minneso ta, when th e people in power tended to fa vo r Tommy Kramer.

Humbl e

practi cing with his undefeated teammates, Wi lson talked about how the Saints, his Saints, might j ust overcome the world of football. And irony of ironies, guess where the Super Bowl will be? Atl anta. Where another bench, the bench, was Wi lson 's home.

"Certainly we have the potential to go all the way to the Super Bowl," Wil son said . " I don't have any problem saying th at. But th ere's a l ot of things that have to happen between now and then. We have to stay healthy, and we have to stay focused on what we're doing."

If the Sai nts do get to enjoy the blinding lights of Super Bowl media attention, it will be interes tin g to see how th e world reacts to Wi lson.

I f yo u thought Troy Aikman was quiet, wait

yourself

when the Vikin gs cut you loose wi th out an explanation.

Humble yourself in Atlanta when you had to settle for a backup rol e with th e woeful Falcons.

And humble yourself in New Orleans, when you had to win th e respect of veteran players and coaches as you went abou t th e grim business of repl aci ng one of th eir favorites, former Saints quarterback Bobby Hebert.

You stuck to yo ur task as you humbled yourself throu gh the earl y portion of th e

By Allen Palme ri 1993 season, when you led the Saints to a record th at no one in th e NFL would have dared to predict. You say you went 5-0? Well , then, it might just be the proper time to start talking about the rest of those words.

For indeed, when you look at it all in perspective, it should be obvious, at thi s late juncture in the 1993 season, that Someone has lifted you up, Wade Wilson.

On a hot, humid afternoon in the New Orleans suburb of Metairi e, whi le si tting in full uni form on a bench after

Overlooked and neglected with his past two teams, quiet, unassuming Wade Wilson has emerged as the surprise ofthe year among quarterbacks in the NFL

.._ Rising above. In an unusual turn of events, Wade Wilson has stepped into some pretty popular shoes in New Orleans, and has stood out anyway.

until you talk to this guy.

The best thing you can say is that he is poli te, with a deadpan sense of humor. But dynamic public speaking? McMahon-style hype? High-profile endorsements in crazy commercials? Don' t even try to make it fit.

If Aikman is quiet, then Wilson is inaudible. He leads by example. He comes across as truly humble, which comes as no surpri se when you seriously attempt to understand how long he's been trying to build that quali ty into his life. Saints coach Jim Mora noticed it right away.

SPORTS SPECTR UM • D ECEMBER 1 993

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Wild and Wacky Wade?

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guarantee a victory in the Super Bowl, and he won't parade around town in shades and a punk hairdo. If they try to talk him into one of those hip interviews on ESPN2, he probably won't dig the scene. Letterman? Doubtful.

Leno? Slightly better.

In a country that loves to idolize its pro quarterbacks, Wilson doesn't quite fit.

But if you play your part to set him up, Wade Wilson can be funny. He definitely understands how to provide grist for the hype mill. Thus, his humor is often quite accommodating.

When he rifled a pass off the hands of a Rams defensive back and into the arms of Saints wide receiver Patrick Newman for a touchdown, Wilson offered a simple apology from the world of hoops. "I forgot to call a bank shot,' he said.

And there's the story of the Athletes in Action Celebrity Golf Classic, which Wilson officially played host to in Minnesota.

AlA's Tom Lamphere and other officials would try to get the reluctant Wilson to make a speech-prodding himwith, "It's your tournament, Wade. Say something." So he did. He said to them, 'Guys, I hate to talk."

'Wade's a very humble person,' says Lamphere, who befriended the QB when he played for the Vikings. "That's why the fans in Minnesota just love him. He's very gracious. I firmly believe that God is honoring Wade. I knew Wade Wilson was going to be a great quarterback somewhere."

-Allen Palmeri 8

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"He' s got excellent leading news for an NFL quarership qualities," Mora says. terback. There are about 4 "He's got a lot of class. He million diabetics in the United States. Most are handles himself very well , both on and off the field. He di agnosed between the has a lot of good traits that I ages of 40 and 60. There is no know n cure. Wil son was really unaware of, and I'm reall y happy that he's was a seemingly indestrucon our football team." tible athlete, just entering You have to travel back to the prime of hi s career.

Minnesota to understand How would he deal with where those good traits came this disease? Would it sap from. Back to Eden Prairie, his strength and force him where the Vikings train, and to retire? a little restaurant named When asked to remember Jerry's Place. Back to a spethose days, Baumgartner cial time on Thursday morntold The Ne w Orlea ns ings , when Wilson woul d Times-Picayune that Wilson meet for a one-on-one Bible took the news well, quickly study with Tom Lamphere, learning all about his new the Vikings' team chaplain. life of daily insulin injections. "That 's Wade," Wilson used to talk with Lamphere about how hard it Baumgartner said. "He is a was to deal with the team's straight arrow and the easiquarterback controversy that est diabetic I've cared for." pitted him, the quiet Texan, Like a quarterbac k against Tommy Kramer, the learning a new playbook , icon who seemed to be con- .& The real thing. There's no disguising the fact Wilson did his homework . tinually anointed by both the that Wade Wilson has proved that to be a sucHe had to avoid foods with coaching staff and media. cessful quarterback In the NFL you don't have to high sugar and fat content, Lamphere told Wilson to be a prima donna or a headline grabber or even a he had to exercise even graduate of a major college football power. memorize I Peter 5:6. more, and he had to learn Wilson took him seriously how to give himself two shots a day with small neethen and continues to take him seriously now. He says he has often thought of dles. Monitoring his blood sugar daily, he returned to those powerful words as he has journeyed from play for the Vikings. Three years later, he played in the Minnesota to Atlanta to New Orleans.

Pro Bowl.

Sitting in the hot Louisiana sun, girding himself for In perhaps the most spectacular run of his career, a few radio and television interviews that day before Wilson came within an eyelash of leadi ng the Viki ngs being hit by the increasingly inevitable glare of the to the 1988 Super Bowl. After teaming with Kramer national spotlight, Wilson paid tribute to the breakfast to destroy the Saints 44- 10, Wilson engineered a 36buddy who taught him priceless truths at 7:00 am for 24 vic tory over the San Franci sco 49ers. But 7 years. Lamphere is far from him on the map but Minnesota fell to the Washington Redskins in the close in spirit. Wilson said Lamphere's advice is NFC Championship Game, 17-10, and Wilson evenfixed in his mind. tually fell from grace when the Vikings dumped " It really has helped me here," Wilson says. "You try Coach Jerry Burns and hired Dennis Green. to remain humble, do your job, and not get all caught In an ugly scene, Vikings assistan t general managup in the good or the bad. And you know where all the er Jeff Diamond told Wi lson he was through. To this good things come from." day, Wilson resents two things- that neither Green Starting from the day in 1982 when he was drafted in nor any of his assistant coaches told him about the the eighth round out of tiny East Texas State, Wilson decision face-to-face, and that his name was publicly had it rough with the Vikings. He fought his way up the linked with Keith Mi llard , J oey Browner, and depth chart until the summer of 1985. That's when he Herschel Walker, making up a quartet of so-called found himself in the middle of a fi gh t that would bad guys. change his life forever.

"They said they got rid of the four troublemakers on For no apparent reason, he went from 21 0 pounds to the team," Wilson told The Minneapolis Star Tribune.

190. Leaving the Vikings' training camp one day with "If they handled it correctly, I wouldn 't be bitter at anyan insatiable thirst, a puzzled Wilson checked into a body. But to cut me loose at the time it happened, not hospital. His wife, Kathy, prayed that God would send explain why, and then try to ruin my reputation through someone to help. That person, a man named Dr. John the press-that kind of made me angry."

Baumgartner, would be the one to deliver softly the bad "Wade is a man of honor and a man of integrity," news: Wade Wilson had diabetes.

Lamphere explains. " If you have something to say to "Bad news" describes it poorly. It was reall y crush- him, just say it to his face. I think that's what really hurt SPO RTS S P ECT RUM· D ECEM BER 1 993

SA INT

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him. Wade was by no means a troublemaker. He was it every day. That means exercising, watching my diet, just an all-around gentleman. and taking my insulin shots."

"I literally cried the day he left . For me it wasn' t Wilson certainly has been a shot in the arm to the losing a Viking, it was losing a good fri end. He Saints, a team that has always been known to shoot helped me deal wi th the pain when my father was itself in the foot. After the 5-0 start, when he mandying of cancer. Wade was a man who showed me aged to beat every other team in the NFC West, true compassion." including the dreaded 49ers, while throwing only one Wilson became a southern gentleman in 1992 when he interception, even the normall y pessimi stic New joined the Falcons in Atlanta. Playing behind Pro Bowl Orleans fans began to think the unthinkable. Maybe Wilson is the qu arte rquarterback Chris Miller, his role was limited. But back who could produce the first playoff victory three successive 300-yard in franchise history. passing games at the end of the season against "The cit y deserv es a playoff winning team," Tampa Bay, Dallas , and Wilson says. "I' ve sat in the Los Angeles Rams amazeme nt like everyproved he still had it. body else trying to figure Yet he didn ' t have a out why they haven ' t future in Atlanta. Miller was too yo un g and won a playoff ga me.

That 's one thing we are promising. But the Saints definitely trying to had grow n sour on the change this year."

32-year-old Hebert and Dealing with the leghad chosen not to resign him. Courted by the end of Kramer helped him deal with a touchy situaFalcons and hi s home tion in New Orleans, stat e Cowboy s as a where veteran players had potential backup, Wilson grown to like and respect did the smart thing. He the hometown Hebert as signed with the Saints and proved he was good their offensive leader.

Wilson won them over enough to start ahead of with quiet, efficient play.

Steve Walsh and Mi ke Buck.

Though he does not like to compare himself to the When it co mes to charismatic Cajun (could Wil son 's diabetes, the any two personalities be Saints have never more opposite?), he has wave red. Mora told definitel y carri ed on reporters that Wilson has Hebert' s legacy in the never had a problem with it. Sai nts tra iner Dean locker room by participating in team Bible studies.

Kleinschmidt told Tile "I think that's so imporTimes- Picayune that _. A long run. In a league in which the average player hangs around for less than 5 years, Wilson has "Wade has his situation proved tant for the closeness of his durability and staying power by making the team," Wilson says. under control. He knows an important contribution to the Saints during his "The more believers you as much about diabetes as 14th year in the NFL. the American Diabetes have on a team, the closer it makes a team. When Association." Indeed the only precaution the Saints have taken for Wilson is to things go good, or when things go bad, there's a conhave each trainer carry a roll of Life Savers during stant in your life."

And there's no mistaking who that constant is in practice.

Sweating like any other player after a hot day on the Wilson's life. practice field, Wilson appears to be normal. He discuss"Whether he's All-Pro or on the bench, Wade is es his diabetes casuall y with anyone who asks him Wade," Lamphere says. "His identity is wrapped up in about it. his faith in Jesus Christ. That's what makes him such a "You have to become as knowledgeable as possible fierce competitor and one who has been able to overabout it," he says. "I tried to learn as much as I could, come so much in life." because I knew nothing about it when I was diagnosed.

Humbled by diabetes, controversy, and a year on the Then you try to find out the proper way to manage bench, Saint Wade just may be approaching the "due time" his favorite verse talks about. those things, and then go about it.

"It 's just like anything else. You're going to have to be diligent working at it, if you're going to be good at Allen Palmeri lives in Mississippi, where he is a sports it. I want my long-term health to be good, so I work at copy editor for the Biloxi Sun Herald.

SPORTS S P E C T RUM • D ECE M BER 1 9 9 3

r---------Raise You~ Hand If You'~e NOT Su~e

ga.i.ljWI ~i·'h made a life·changing decision in eighth grade during an assembly held at his junior high school in Commerce, Texas.

"I wasn't on drugs, and I didn't hit bottom or anything like that," Wilson recalls. "but at the end of the talk, they asked 'How many people here, if Jesus were to come back today, would be guaranteed of going to heaven, and if you aren't sure, would you raise your hand?' I said, 'Well, t can't say I'm guaranteed of going to heaven,' so I raised my hand. I accepted Christ that day. I've been trying to walk the walk since then."

Wilson credits his wife, Kathy, with helping him develop that walk.

"Certainly there have been ups and downs since then, but I know I've definitely gotten stronger since I've been married," he says. "My wife's real strong, and that's been a real inspiration as well.

"There are things that go on in our life, good and bad, and we pray about them. We just turn things over to the Lord. That's the way we want to live our lives. We pray togetherpray about everything that's a concern of ours."

Wilson has become a role model to many childrenparticularly those who are facing the same lifelong bat· tie with diabetes that he is facing. His own choice of a role model should come as no surprise. He's a Super Bowl champion with a quiet, clean image, Hall of Fame quarterback and fellow believer in Jesus Christ, Roger Staubach, Wilson's hero growing up as a Cowboy fan.

"I just thought that the way that he handled himself, on and off the field, was something to emulate," Wilson says.

- Allen Palmeri

9

THE

SCENES ARE it was not given an official name FAMILIAR to North until after World War II when It was Am erican sports fans. dubbed the Jules Rimel Cup. Rimel We've seen Mario Lemieux skat路 was the Federation lnternationale ing triumphantly around the ice with de Football Association (FIFA) presthe huge Stanley Cup hoisted over ident who got the ball rolling on the his head. We 've original World Cup watched Michael tournament. The Jordan weeping as Jules Rimel Cup he hugs the Larry was given out for the O' Brien trophy that last time In 1970 symbolizes NBA when it was awarded supremacy. We 've to Brazil, who alone observed as the penhad won the trophy nant-bedecked hard路 three times. ware of Major League The World Cup Baseball and the may have been the simple yet classic biggest prize in Vince Lombardi NFL sports, but it certainchampionship trophy ly did not lead a charmed life. For have been handed instance, during out in raucous lockerroom ceremonies.

World War II it was But would we rechidden under a bed ognize the biggest in Italy to protect it prize In sports? from invading troops.

Could we describe In 1966, the Cup the trophy that spurs fared even worse. a thousand celebraWhile on display In tions? Could we IdenEngland prior to the tify the World Cup? tournament that If not, we need to year, it was stolen. learn to . If we ' re Scotland Yard went COURTESY OF FIFA going to all this to work, only to have By trouble to bring the their gumshoes out路 D ave B ranon best countries to performed by our shores to battle Pickles, a dog that it out for the right to haul the thing sniffed out the Cup while nosing home , we should know what around in a trash heap. they're fighting for.

The end finally came for Jules in In the 60-year history of World 1983 when the Cup was stolen in Cup competition , two different Brazil and eventually melted down pieces of hardware have served as by some criminals who were obvithe symbolic representation of soc- ously not sympathetic Brazilian cer supremacy. The first one was soccer fans. designed and created by Abel World Cup trophy II was created for LaFleur, a French sculptor, for the the 1974 tourney by Silvio Gazzaniga 1930 competition . It was an eight路 of Italy. This version is smaller (14 " sided cup that was held in the tall) and less ornate, and it weighs upstretched arms of the goddess of just 11 pounds. It's also safer.

The FIFA retains permanent posvictory. She was supported by a pedestal of semi-precious session of the World Cup. To the stones. It was awarded to winner goes a gold-plated replica of the winners of the first the original. That's what all the fuss three tournaments will be about on July 17 in (1930, 1934, 1936), but Pasadena.

]lm

BfgQed

Pulle m

SUIWIS

By J e nnie C h andler P ELE in a Bethesda, Maryland, backyard?

Hardly! Like thousands of youngsters in the early 70s, it was Scott Cook, a tow-headed kid with speed, footwork, and a powerfu l shot, fak ing out invisible opponents between the garage and hedges. His mom grew rather annoyed at the soccer ball marks on the garage, but that's where the energize r of the Day ton Dynamo in the National Professional Soccer League began his soccer career.

Inspired by a film series _. Inside shots. Instead of playabout Brazilian legend Pele ing outside for the World Cup, Scott Cook competes in the that was shown at the local indoor NPSL. YMCA, Scott was hooked on soccer. He was awed by the excitement in the stadium as the fi lm showed Pele leading Brazil to victory in the 1970 World Cup. "I made up my mind right then to become a pro player," he says.

Years later, that desire was nurturt:d by the coaches of the select teams he was chosen to play for as he worked his way up the soccer ladder. Coaches like John Kerr Sr., a former Scottish World Cup player and member of the Cosmos, and Gordon Mu rray, also a notable Scottish player. "I heard a lot about the World Cup during my 5 years with those coaches," says Cook.

The World Cup of Soccer is important to Cook. "As a youngster, I was enthralled with the mystery of it and I still am. It's the largest, most prestigious event in soccer. It's so spectacular. As a young player, I dreamed about it. It motivated me," he says.

Yet he will not be playing in it next summer. Despite an impressive soccer background, he was unable to earn a spot on the US National Team. " It was my dream to play in a World Cup," he admits, "but I'm satisfied that I got as far as I did." However, he has played wi th or agai nst national team members, past and present: Bruce Murray, Desmond Am1strong, Tab Ramos, and Hugo Perez.

In fact, he watched his first live TV broadcast of the World Cup final with Ramos and Am1strong while in San Antonio to try out for the under-18 junior national team in 1982.

Earning the fi rst reserve spot on that team gave Cook a fi rsthand look at international soccer frenzy as his team played in the Joao Havelange/FIFA Intern ational Tou rnament in Acapulco, Mexico. "] was overwhelmed and thrilled to be there, and very proud to be representing my country," he recalls.

"On the field in that first game, I remember feeling like a little fish in a big ocean. The stadium was full , the fans were crazed, and we

TI

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were treated with such respect. I was awestruck by the fan s that his spiritual struggles grew. Various soccer disappointcrowded together on flat apat1ment roofs to see the game," he recalls. ments, including his shattered dream of not being named It had been a different story for Cook in high school. There he a college All-American, led him to seek fulfillment in was a "big fish," leading his team to the state title in 1982 and alcohol, women, and soccer. being named to several All-American teams. After graduating, he Three years ago, though, he was drawn back to God in a most moved on to the University of Connecticut, where he was named to unusual way during the 1990 APSL Championship game. While the Big-Eastern All-Conference and All-New England teams and being treated for a minor injury, Cook was talking to the team doctor, was selected as one of Soccer America's 'Top 16 Freshmen." who told him that the Lord would shine on him and he would score Things had never been as successful two goals. Scott did just that, and at home for Cook as they were on the Maryland took the championship over soccer field, though, even when he was San Francisco, 2- 1 in ove11ime. "More little. His parents had divorced when he impo11ant," Cook adds, "I made a comwas 6. His mother became an alcoholic, mitment that clay to start doing what and by sixth grade Scott was living with Jesus wants me to do." his dad. Cook says those years led him This led to his January 199 1 resigto grow selfish and calloused- soccer nation from Dayton over an issue that was all he cared about. Yet he knew he could have compromised his integrity. could always depend on his dad's love.

He signed with the Chicago Power, That came in especially helpful during who met and defeated Dayton in the his first year of college, because despite NPSL finals in the spring. the honors in soccer, he was in trouble in That summer, Cook played his final the classroom. Eventually, he flunked year for Maryland, which folded at out, which meant he had to leave UConn the end of the season. Then in the fall, and return to Maryland to live with his before the NPSL season began, Scott dad. Embarrassed and rebellious, he returned his unsigned contract to began to drink heavily, and he refused to Chicago and arranged to have knee go to church with his dad, who had surgery. During recovery he enjoyed a become a Christian. trip wi th his clad to the Holy Land, The next fall Cook accepted a scholarwhere he further committed his life to do what God wanted him to do. ship from South Carolina. The grades came up, and the honors continued to Meanwhile his good friend, Dayton come in. South Carolina was an NCAA captain Tony Bono, was working to get him back on the team. The opportunity quarterfinalist in 1985 and made the 4 Reason to celebrate. Scott Cook was in the middle playoffs in 1986. Ranked number one by of an improved lineup that helped Dayton go from came when new owners took over in Soccer America in 1987, they lost to 9-31 in 1991-92 to 20-20 last season. He was Offensive late 199 1. They liked the idea of signing Cook for another tour of duty with eventual champion Clemson in the Player of ~he Year as he join:d three other Dynamo regionals. As a Gamecock, Cook players With 100 or more pOints for the season. the Dynamo. Bono says, "I wanted Scott back in Dayton because of his integrity and leadership. There's received several more honors, including All-South Region.

While at South Carolina, life off the field changed drastically for not a nicer person for this city to have as a role model."

Cook. In 1985, he attended a campus meeting during which the And he can play. Cook ranks third on the team in career games gospel of salvation was explained. Following in his dad's footsteps, played ( 135 ) and total points (242) and fourth in goals scored (96), he prayed to accept Jesus Christ as his Savior that day. With his assists (56), and blocked shots ( 137). characteristic intensity, he began to study the Bible and read everyInjured at the end of the 1992-93 season, Cook had time to reflect thing he could about sports personalities who shared his faith. on some changes he knew he needed to make. "I had grown angry at A year later Cook went to Mexico on a missions trip that gave him people for demanding so much of my time and at God for allowing a unique World Cup experience, since Mexico City was the site for nie to experience difficulties. I was struggling for acceptance. As I the 1986 Cup. The missions team bought tickets, and Cook saw his read Scripture and Christian books, I teamed to stop basing my worth first World Cup game in person as Argentina beat South Korea. on my performance or people's opinions. I' m beginning to underIn 1988, Cook's dream of becoming a pro soccer player was ful- stand what God has clone for me- l am free from my past and made filled. He was the first player signed by the Maryland Bays of the righteous by Christ's death on the cross." outdoor American Professional Soccer League (APSL), and he was Scott Cook may never get to play in the World Cup, but he's at also drafted and signed by the Dayton Dynamo, affiliated with the peace. "I enjoy my job so much. I want to give back to the American Indoor Soccer Association (AISA), now called the National team and the community, and I feel Dayton is where God Professional Soccer League (NPSL). In the summer he'd play for the wants me." D Bays; in the winter, the Dynamo.

Freelance writer and soccer mom Jennie Chandler Although Cook's soccer success continued (AISA All-Rookie), lives in Ft. Belvoir, Virginia.

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CENTRA&.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

• Keeping Score of.libscinating Rwts and Compiled by Rob B entz

TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT each team durwas a second expansion draft. ing its expansion This time the San Jose Sharks, draft. The New Tampa Bay Lightning, and York Islanders Ottawa Senators had the option of picking up players left unprohad the hero of last season's tected by the Mighty Ducks and surprising playthe other expansion team, the off run, goalie Florida Panthers.

Glenn Healy, You guessed it. Glenn Healy was selected by the Tampa Bay back-up Mike Fitzpatrick, and Lightning in the second expana dilemma on sion draft. But don' t leave, their hands. So, we' re not finished yet.

Faster than you could say, they took care of part of the "Playoff hero," Tampa Bay GM problem. Sort Phil Esposito struck a deal. He of. The Islanders sent Healy back to New York, traded Fitzthis time to the Rangers, in exchange for a third-round pick patrick to Quebec for forin the amateur draft. mer Vezina and Yes, the journey is fmished.

Conne Smythe But let's take one more glance.

That's New York to Anaheim, trophy winner Ron Hextall, Anaheim to Tampa Bay, and another goalie.

Tampa Bay back to New York.

Obviously, That's a long way to travel they still had the 30 miles from the Nassau two goalies and the opportunity Coliseum (home of the Islanders) to Madison Square Garden (the to protect only one. What to do?

The Islanders chose to protect home of the Rangers).

Hextall, and leave Healy to • The Joe the expansion Diffe..ence draft.

The presence of Here's Joe Montana on the where it gets 49ers' bench behind fun ! The Steve Young may have Mighty Ducks been the driving force from Anaheim for Young's breakchose Healy in through year of 1992. the expansion Keep in mind that draft along Young never threw with fellow more than one intercepgoalies, Guy tion in a game last seaHebert of St. son with Joe on the TOM DIPACE Louis and Ron sidelines. Move .A Influence Man. Joe Tugnutt from Montana to KC and Montana seems to help his club just by being Edmonton. look what happens. around.

Are you conGame one versus the fused yet?

Steelers: three interceptions. Game two versus the There's more. Browns: three interceptions. After just 4 games, After Healy Young had already eclipsed last year's interception was plucked total of7. Was it the preseason thumb injury, or by the Mighty could the Montana mystique be that strong?

Ducks, there

• 40,000·YiD'd Club When Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino passed for 286 yards in a losing effort against the New York Jets on September 12, he placed himself in some rather elite pany. Marino went over the 40,000-yd. mark in career passing. Only Hall-ofFamers Dan Fouts, Fran Tarkenton, Johnny Unitas-and now Marino-have passed that plateau.

Tarkenton holds the NFL record for the most career passing yards with 47,003.

RIC FOGEllSI'UAlooc PHOTOGRAI'HY If his achilles .A Yard Man. If it's tendon injury heals, yardage you want, Dan look for Marino to can get them. Marino has break Tarkenton's gained 5,000 more yards than Joe Montana in 4 record before he fewer years. hangs'em up.

.A Traveling Man. Even a brilliant performance in the Stanley Cup series didn't guarantee Glenn Healy a spot with his old team.

• The Sub-.Nay's Sho:rte..

This is the story of how one man went from Long Island to downtown New York. The long way.

It all started when the NHL imposed a rule allowing only one goaltender to be protected by 12

SPORTS SPECTRUM· D ECEM B E R 1 993

conference .l)reialcd!>W.il starting QBs at the 1993 season.

PAC10 •7 Troy Aikman......Cowboys.....UCI.A DrewBledsoe ....Patriots .......WashlnglonSt John Elway........Broncos ......Stanford ChrisMiller .......Falcons .......Oregon WarrenMoon ....Oilers ..........Washington Rodney Peete....lions..........usc Mark Ryplen......Redskins ......WashlngtonSt Big Ten · 4 JimEverett ........Rams..........Purdue Jim Harbaugh...Bears ..........MiChigan Mike Tomczak ...Steelers ......Ohio State Jack Trudeau.....Colts ...........lllinois Independents•4 Steve Buerlein ...Cardinals ....Notre Dame Brett Favre.........Packers.......S. Mississippi RickMirer .........Seahawks ...Notre Dame Joe Montana .....Chiefs.........Notre Dame Big East · 4 Jell Hostetler.....Raiders ...... .West Virginia Jim Kel~ ...........Bills .. ,.........Miami (FL) Bernie Kosar ..... Browns .......Miami (FL) Dan Marino .......Dolphins .....Pittsburgh WAC·2 Jim McMahon ... Vikings........Br~ham Steve Young...... 49ers ..........Br~ham BigWesl· 2 Randall Cunningham ......Eagles .........UNLV Steve DeBerg .... Buccaneers ..San Jose St. ACC ·1 Boomer Esiason..Jets.............Maryland OhioValley · 1 Phil Simms ....... Giants .........Morehead St. Southwest ·1 David Klingler. ... Bengals.......Houston Southland · 1 StanHumphries.Chargers ..... NE Louisiana LoneStar ·1 Wade Wilson ..... Saints.........East TexasSt. (DivisionII)

7rivia fro-m the World of Sports • Hard Hittin' Mark Whiten The St. Louis Cardinals clubhouse was prepared for a hero.

Well , sort of. Red travel bags

..&. Hit Man. It was a long night

for the Reds as Mark Whiten sent four home runs into the darkness to carve his name into baseball history.

decorated with toilet-paper lined the floor and chants of "Hard Hittin' Mark Whiten" bounced around the room as the Cardinals outfielder entered the clubhouse.

Why? Mark Whiten had just provided one of the premiere offensive shows in baseball history.

• Whiten crushed 4 home runs in the second game of a doubleheader with Cincinnati, becoming only the twelfth player in major league history to do it (Bob Horner was most recent, in 1986). .

• He knocked home 12 runs in that game, the most by a major leaguer in 69 years. (James Bottomley of the Cardinals drove in 12 in 1924.)

• He piled up 13 RBI in the doubleheader (including one on a single in the first game). That tied him with former San Diego Padre Nate Colbert for the major league record for most RBI in a doubleheader.

Roll out the red carpet! All right, I suppose red travel bags will do.

•

•• What teams were in existence for the NFL's first season?

Chuck: You have to go all the way back to 1922 for the first year of the,NFL. It consisted of 18 teams, including · tlieleague champ Canton Bulldogs. Other franchises _included the Akrdn I'ros, Buffalo All-Ame*icans, Chicago Bears, Chicago Cardinals, Columbus Panhandles, DaYton Triangles, EvansVille Crimson -Giants; Green Bay Packers, Hammond Pros, :Louisville Brecks, Milwaukee Badgers, Minneapolis Mariiles~ oorang Indians, Racine Legion, Roc.he..ster Jeffersons, Rock Island Independents, and the Toledo Maroons.' The Oorang Indians-were sponsored by a dog kennel and played all of their games on the road.

- took at some names from the NFI.r-1922 style: Tarzan Taylor, Norb Sacksteder, Truck Myers, Rat Watson, Cub Buck, J ug Earp, Hippo _Gopdowski, and fl-iP. King.

Now, those were some serious football names!

Q:

Who hoicts the NBA record for most assists in one game?

Chuck: Scott Skiles of the Orlando Magic holds that mark.-He Oishedo ut 30 in a 1990 game agai~st the Denver Nuggets. Skiles' passing magic broke,the previous record of 29, set by Kevin Porter of the New Jersey Nets in 1978.

•

,I

·• Is it true that Packers defensive end Reggie White once played in the USFL? Chuck: ·That's absolutely correct. Reggie was drafted

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out of the University of Tennessee in 1984 by the Memphis Showboats of the United States Football League. He chased quarterbacks for the Showboats in 1984 and 1985, racking up 23-1/2 sacks. The Eagles selected White as the fourth player in the first round of the NFL's supplemental draft, and big #92 signed with Philly on September 21, 1985. Reggie played in 13 games for the Eagles during the 1985 season.

• What was the NBA's

CHUCK , host of~ Spectrum radio, is sports director of WGN Radio in Chicago.

c

championship troph,y called before the league renamed it after Larry O'Brien?

Chuck: As you know, the Larry O'Brien troph,y is awarded to the winner of the NBA Finals each year. The sterling silver troph,y was renamed the Larry O'Brien Troph,y to honor the outgoing commissioner in 1984. Prior ·to that, the troph,y was called the Walter A. Brown Troph,y in honor of the league pioneer and former Boston Celtics owner.

•

0 Did Elgin Baylor, general manager of the Clippers, ever coach in the NBA? Chuck: Yes, the Hall of Fame forward of the Lakers was the coaeh of the New Orleans Jazz from 1974-79. Baylor didn't have nearly as much success on the bench as he did on the court. His Jazz teams compiled a 86-135 record during his 5-year head coaching stint.

Compare that to his lifetime NBA scoring average of 27.4 points per game, and it's obvious that Elgin's playing success easily surpassed anything he did as an NBA coach.

~ g Who was the last person to win the Grand Slam of tennis?

Chuck: You have to go back to 1988. Then, as now, Steff!

Graf dominated the world of women's tennis. Graf defeated Chris Evert 6-l , 7-6 to win the Australian Open. She shut out Natalia Zvereva 6-0, 6-0 to capture the French Open title. Martina Navratilova was next as Graf topped her 5-7, 6-2, 6- l to win her first Wimbledon. And Steff! clinched the Grand Slam with 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 win over Gabriela Sabatini at the US Open. D Just Ask! If you have a sports question

you can't find the answer to, send it to The Swirsky Report, Box 3566, Grand Rapids, MI 49501-3566.

Hear Chuck!

Each Saturday you can hear Chuck Swirsky on ~ Spectrum radio at noon eastern time. Call l -800-6538333 to find out where you can hear the program.

__ J S POR T S S P ECcR UM • D ECE M BE R 1 993

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SPOR TS SPEC TRUM路 D ECEMBE R 1 993

POINT MAN

In both football and basketball at Florida State, the ball is in the capable hands of a true leader when Charlie Ward has it-but he's not one to talk about it

By Dave Branon NCE YOU TALK WITH CHARLIE WARD, you understand one good reason the Florida State Seminoles often run a no-huddl e offense. Quarterback Ward prefers action to words. He leads by what he does, so why waste time chatting with your teammates when you can direct them downfield?

Take what happened in the fourth game of the season, for example. Number I Florida State was visiting number 22 North Carolina, and the Seminoles were having more trouble 路'-"--if' than was expected with the upset-minded Tar Heels. After annihilating their opponents in the first three games 144-7, FSU went into the lockerroom at Kenan Stadium clinging to a non-national champ-like I 0-7 lead.

So how did Charlie Ward lead his team in the second half?

Did he yell at them and try to psyche them out? Did he fling his helmet on the ground to show them the way? Did he cheerlead or just lead?

Certainly he talked with his teammates at the half, but his true leadership came through after the clock started. "In that game, it was evident that we weren't playing well," he recalls. "We were up 10-7, but we really hadn 't played that well. Since I'm the guy with the ball all the time, I just took it upon myself to throw the ball better and make better decisions. But everyone had to do their job. It was my job to go out there and lead them down the field."

It was my job to lead them. Which is what Charlie Ward did, with ample help from the defense, by directing a couple of scor-

A What about baseball?

As for football, everyone is talking Heisman. As for basketball, Dean Smith has already said to him, " You can play this game at the next level." But as for baseball? Try this: In his first at-bat in high school he hit a home run. And this summer the Milwaukee Brewers selected him in the amateur draft.

-contlnued on page 18

SPORTS SPECTR UM路 DECEM BER 1993

15

A Defining moment.

Struggling somewhat at quarterback through the first seven games of 1992, Ward turned a fourth-quarter 21-7 deficit against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets into a vi ctoryand has been the man of the hour ev er s ince.

18

ing drives to putthe game comfortably out of reach and keep the number I ranking intact in Tallahassee.

As Ward enters the midway point in the final year of his athletic endeavors at Florida State, he shows all the signs of a you ng athlete who knows his role and is comfortable with it. Whether driving his teammates down the football field or driving to the hoop for two as the point guard on the Seminoles' basketball team, Ward knows how to lead. He has observed other leaders and he seems satisfied with hi s own action-notwords leadership style.

"You have different leaders," Ward explains. "Some are vocal, some lead by example. I think the important thing is to be a proven winner- a guy who steps up.

Some guys are vocal and they talk a lot, and they lead by talking. Some guys lead by action. I lead by action."

As this future All -American was growi ng up in Thomasville, Georgia, there were two Charl ie Wardsthe father who taught his son how to lead, and the son who learned his lessons well. The first Charlie was an accomplished football player in his own right, havi ng played on another college gridiron in Tal lahassee, Florida, at Florida A & M. Senior had a lot to do with Junior's being good enough to play in Tallahassee at a higher level with Florida State.

The old axiom that coach's kids make the best team leaders was never more true than in the case of the Wards. When Charlie Jr. was a stude1it at Central High, his dad was his assistant football coach and his head basketball coach. Now Dad is the golf coach, which makes you wonder what Charlie Jr. would do on the PGA Tour if he had played golf for him.

Leadership for the Ward family did not occur just on the practice fields. It also took place at home, where action was once more stressed over words. "My parents have been the main leaders in my li fe," Ward says.

"I've had other people who have given me some direction and who I trust, but my parents reall y stick out.

Just the fact that they've been there for me and my siblings is what makes them leaders. Also, it was important that they brought us up in the church and taught us

how to be good citizens. Their actions were what showed us the way. They didn't talk a lot about how to be the right kind of person, they just showed us how to live. They modeled life for us."

They didn't talk a lot; they just showed us. Which is good training for the leader of a no-huddle offense and a no-nonsense approach to life. It's the kind of training that creates the Charlie Ward method of handling tough situations: "When things are not going well, then you have to step up. When circumstances aren' t the way you want them to be, it's just a matter of stepping up and taking a leadership role."

To be a leader, though, a person has to have followers. Charlie Ward has plenty of those- both on the field and off. Hi s basketball coach, Pat Kennedy, says of Ward, "Everyone respects Charlie-coaches, teammates, managers, everybody."

Florida State's strength and conditioning coach Dave Van Halanger verifies that. "Charlie is a leader among men. They know what he stands for and he speaks out too. Sometimes he'll tell a kid who has been involved in something that isn't good for him, ' Hey, to be really cool you don't have to be like that. You really need to watch your actions.' He's a real strong leader."

Now into his second season as Florida State's starting quarterback, Ward has also acc umul ated a vast array of followers outside of Tallahassee. For instance, he has a sizable following among the people who will choose the winner of college football 's most prestigious award, the Heisman Trophy. It could be a curse in disguise, for as Duke defensive end Travis Pearson said before his Blue Devils faced the Sem inoles, "Every defensive end that plays against him this year has the opportunity to look back and say, ' I sacked a guy who might win the Heisman this year.' He might be a firstround draft choice."

What about the guy who might win the Heisman?

Could all thi s be goi ng to his head? According to Coach Van Halanger, that is not Charlie Ward's way.

"Some guys overestimate their ego. Charlie doesn't.

Charlie Ward is just Charlie Ward. He's that guy from Thomasvill e who loves sports and likes people.

Charlie is a down-to-earth person who reall y loves his family.You know, it 's hard for him to believe that he's that popular. " Couldn 't the hype be too much for a guy like that?

Couldn 't the pressure of the Heisman and the chance to lead his team to a national title be beari ng down so much on the young man that he would find it hard to get the job done? That might seem likely for someone more concerned with words than with action, but Ward says simply, "There's no extra pressure on me. People try to put pressure on me, but I try to just go out and play my game, and everything will take care of itself. I try to stay focused on my task on the field instead of trying to worry about what people want me to be. You just have to play your game."

Play your game. Which is the confident motto of an action leader whose game just might put him in the company of past Heisman winners like Barry Sanders, Bo Jackson, and Herschel Walker. It's a prospect that has the former vice president of the student body at Florida State thinking in election terms. "It's exciting to

SPORTS S PEQTR UM • D ECEMB ER 1 993

PO INT

MAN

be a candidate," admits Ward. " I guess it's just like To supplement his faith, Ward reads. "I read the Bible, being a candidate for President or any other national and I also read devotional books. Another thing I like to award-or something that you would like to do or be do is to read a lot of Christian books. Right now I'm readone day. Just to be a considered as a nominee is excit- ing Mike Singletary's book Singletmy on Singletmy." ing for me."

At Florida State, Ward is not alone in his faith in Jesu For 5 years of college (Ward is a fifth-year football Christ. One of the key figures in his life since moving to player, having redshir1ed his freshman year), Ward has Tallahassee has been head coach Bobby Bowden, a felprepared for the time he would first take over the quarter- low believer. Besides the obvious fact that Bowden is back reigns from Casey Weldon and then lead his team- one of the finest coaches in the game, Ward appreciates his coach for allowing him to play two sports. While mates on yet another quest for the elusive national title.

But he has also been preparing himself in other ways Bowden was recruiting Ward in Thomasville, which is for the future. One way is by earning his degree in ther- only a half-hour's drive from Tallahassee, the coach told apeutic recreation. Having already completed his grad- Ward that he could play basketball and football if he kept uation requirements, Ward is still taking classes in his his grade point average high enough.

A man of his word, Bowden allowed his star quarchosen field. It is a people-helping field, which makes sense for one so well-suited to leading by example. terback to take to the court. That type of promi seAccording to Ward, what he is trai ning to do "is some- keeping is one thing that led Ward to characterize what similar to physical therapy, but we do recreational their relati onship as "a father-son relationship. We therapy, such as community outings. We work wi th ge t along reall y we ll. A lot of peopl e probabl y people with head and brain injuries wouldn 't think that because he is by playing recreational games with so popular, but he talks with his players. He just has a good relathem. The mai n foc us of recreational therapy is helping people who have tionship with his players." severe injuries."

And Bowden has a strong faith Another way Charlie Ward is in Jesus Chri st, whi ch furth er preparing for the future is by keepenhances their relationshi p. " It ing hi s faith strong. It 's a faith helps a lot when you have a coach that- li ke everythin g else, it who is a Christian and you ' re a Christian," Ward observes. "You seems-was modeled early in his boyhood home. " My parents are can communicate better. He has that much more respect for me, Christians," Charlie Jr. explains. "So I've been in a Christian home all my and I have a lot of respect for life. I' ve been a Christian and have him. If th ings are going bad, then followed the Lord for a long time. we know where each other stands.

I've had incidents in my life when If he says something I don' t like I've gotten closer to the Lord, but as or if I say something he doesn't long as l can remember I've been a li ke, we know how we are going follower of Him. I'm just practicing to stand afterwards. So it's good a lot heavier now." to know that you have a Christian Practicing his faith . Which is coach." undoubtedly not as easy as it sounds Soon the college football season wi ll be over and Ward will be on a college campus these days. But Ward knows the pitfalls of college trading in his football cleats for a 808 AOSATO life, and uses his faith to navigate A Just Charlie. Talented and anipair of basketball shoes. Again he around them. "Every campus has mated on the field, intelligent in the will be directing a team in the hunt those things," the QB says of moral classroom, and popular around for a championship. Again he will campus, Charlie Ward has refused dangers. To avo id them, he says, to let the media hype make him into lead by action. Again he will excel " You have to sti ck to what yo u anything but Charlie and Willard at a sport his father taught him .

Again he will be an example to all believ e in . You ha.ve to have a Ward's son. strong will and a faith in the Lord who watch. that He will guide you in the right direction. If you have When it's all over, it wi ll be time for him to decide whether we will see Charli e Ward in the NFL, the that, regardless of what happens, He won't let you fall."

Ward believes in this way of thinking so strongly NBA, or perhaps even in Major League Baseball (he that he willingly shares it with others on campus. Van did play baseball in high school). For now, as might be Halanger, who besides helping to pump up the players expected, he is not saying much. "Right now, I really ph ys icall y is also a spiritual leader among the couldn' t tell you which sport I'll play in the pros. It's Seminoles, recalls hearing Ward talk about his faith and tough to say because I'm in football season and I'm reall y enjoying it. When basketball season comes his stand for right li ving at a campus meeting, "Hey, this is something that I believe in," Ward told his fel- around, I 'II enjoy that too. So I can't really say which low students. "This is something that's very important way I'll go." to me. And I don' t have to go to parties. I don 't have to About that subject, Charlie Ward isn't talking. But go and do this, because I know what makes me tick. I keep you r eye on him. He's sure to show us by his know how important God is in my life." actions soon enough.

S P O RT S SPECTRUM· DECEM B ER 1 9 9 3

FOLLOWING THE LEADER OF LEADERS f.i•l.IIIUCi¥f.i~l like

Charlie Ward is a leader not just because he can throw a football and dribble a basketball. He possesses intangible qualities that make others gravitate toward him. For Ward, those intangibles have been developed because of two basic reasons: Family and faith. That combination was never more evident in the Ward family than on Saturday nights, when the eight of them would sit around the table and talk about ''what did Jesus do for you this week?" As FSU strength coach Dave Van Halanger points out about Ward, "His mom and dad were really strong in the faith. He was brought up in it, and he never varied from it." The intangibles of leadership were instilled in Charlie Ward by a deep faith in the Leader of all leaders, Jesus Christ.

If you want to know more about following the greatest leader this world will ever know, write for the free booklet, What Does It Take To Follow Christ? The address is Sports Spectrum, Box 3566, Grand Rapids, Ml 49501-3566.

19

~~~«oro~--------------------------------------~ •••••••••••••••••••••••••

The Leade.. of the Tean1.

Whether they are born or made, leaders all share distinct qualities • By David Egner It is an intangible attribute that can best be defined by looking at the qualities of those who have earned that role. It doesn't come by title or position. You aren't a leader just because you play point guard or quarterback or even because you manage a department at work.

Leadership is earned by men and women of skill and character who have these qualities: WHAT IS LEADERSHIP?

Charlie Wa rd is a true leader.

In command by position, performance, and character, he's a leading Helsman Trophy candidate. Early in the season against Duke, for example, he passed for 272 yards and 2 TDs, completing 22 of 31 passes. The USA TODAY headlined the Monday sports section: " Seminoles Hot Behind Ward: QB Charlie Ward Powers Top-Ranked Florida State." What sets a leader apart from others?

OVision A leader has a combination of he kept the vision of the Promised insight and foresight. Not happy Land before them even when it with the way things are, this perwas necessary for him to point out son can see clearly how they their shortcomings and failures. @Work should be-then makes it happen.

Don Shu! a, coach of the Miami Effective leaders are also willing Dolphins since 1970, is a man to stand shoulder to shoulder with with that kind of vision. His 318 the team and work with diligence wins going into this NFL season to make them winners. They proranked him second only to the duce. They get the job done leadlegendary George Halas. Shula ing by word and example. has led Miami to six Super September gave us one draBowls, and his 1972 Dolphins are the only post-merger team to go undefeated (17-0). From childhood, Shula has been dissatisfied with mediocrity and has hated to lose. In junior and senior high school he was always correcting, pointing out mis.._ Born or made? Black educator Bennie takes, and calling . Goodwin said, "Although potential leaders 13re attention to details born, effective leaders are made." This is evi· that needed denced by people like Don Shula, who put their improvement. They special skills to work as they display leadership. called him "coach" during his playing days at John malic, down-to-the-wire pennant Carroll University. In his pro race and several other good races. career he has combined an Certain players stepped forward uncanny sense of what needs to lead their teams in the pennant fixing with an unusual ability to drive. Barry Bonds did it again motivate and instruct. and again for the Giants. So did In the Bible, it was vision that the Braves' magnificent starting made Moses Israel's greatest pitching. In Philadelphia, Lenny leader. As he led the Israelites on Dykstra ran around the bases and the exodus from slavery in Egypt, into walls for the Phillies. Frank 20

Thomas carried the White Sox offense on his broad and capable shoulders. Joe Carter and Paul Molitor came through again and again for Toronto. Guys who were always there in workmanlike fashion to get on base, drive in the runs, or shut down the opposition.

A biblical example of hardworking leadership is Nehemiah.

Not only did he have the vision for rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and the courage to approach the king for permission and funds, but he also worked tirelessly alongside the people until the wall was in place. @

Perseverance

When opposition arises or setbacks occur, the leader takes it in stride and keeps going. He pushes through the fatigue and discouragement. He refuses to hear the voices that tell him it can't be done. Leaders stick it out to the end.

If anybody ever had reason to give up, it was Moses. Because of unbelief, the Israelites were forced to wander 40 years in the desert with the Promised Land only a few days' march away. Moses led his people all those years, keeping the vision ever before them and taking them to the borders of Palestine before he died.

0

team; he values the team above himself and becomes its servant.

His objective is to elicit cooperation and encourage maximum input and effort, not to demand obedience and punish those who offer suggestions.

Writing I,000 years before Christ, Chinese philosopher LaoTze said it this way: "Fail to honor people and they will fail to honor you; but when a good leader's work is done, they will say, ' We did it ourselves.' "The leader gets great satisfaction in seeing success won through his invisible, selfless direction.

Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of servant leadership.

He defined it in Mark 10:42-45, and He demonstrated it in His life of humble service. Jesus was humble enough to wash His disciples' feet.

Any of us may have tremendous talents and highly perfected skills. But it takes vision, hard work, perseverance, and service to tum us into leaders. r:::l

Service

Leadership is not lordship. A true leader is not the master of his

S P O RTS SPEC TRUM • D E C E MB E R 1 993

The followlllQ attitudes block the way to true leadership: 1. Pessimism. The doubter, the negative thinker, the whiner seldom achieves greatness. The leader sees the potential for improvement through change and effort and believes in it.

2. Mediocrity. Something Inside drives leaders to achieve all they can. They refuse to settle into an attl· tude of mediocrity that robs them of victories that could have been theirs.

3. Reluctance. Progress requires effort and pain. It calls on the best from each participant every day. It never settles for things as they are.

Leaders tinker and fiddle and experiment, doing all they can to produce success. A comfortable status quo attitude is perhaps the greatest enemy of progress and achievement.

•••••••••••••••••••

Catching Up V\lith ...

By Tom Felten ~EAN PRENTICEis a prince

banging his stick to distract me. ' - " ' of a guy. To meet him is to like him. He's a man with a zest "I faked the goalie and for life that's unrestrained by the was just ready to tuck it lingering effects of being checked in behind him when into the boards too many times.

Mikita dove, swung, and He's scheduled for a hip replacehit my skates. I went flyment- the pads weren't designed ing past the net backreal well in his day, he says. wards, sitting down, and But even with this condition, into the boards. he managed to conduct several "BANG! I'm out like of the 18 youth hockey camps a light. that Hockey Ministries "They gave me a sniff International (HMI) held this of ammonia and I see past year. These camps involve Hull standing over me intense workouts on the ice and saying, 'Dean, don't let solid instruction from the Bible. one of your dummies Prentice- and his hip-spent take your penalty shot.' up to 5 hours a day on the ice "I said, 'No way.' teaching hockey fundamentals.

"I got up on center ice But that feat is nothing comand shook it off. I faked pared to what this son of a forn1er right, faked left, then gold miner from rural north tucked it up in the top Ontario did during one NHL shelf. After I scored, I sat game. Prentice explains: • down on the bench.

"I was playing for the Boston When it was time to Bruins. We went into Chicago to change lines, I couldn't face the Black Hawks. It was move. They called time, 1964, and Chicago was really got the stretcher, and strong- featuring Bobby Hull. took me out of the rink. They took "Stan Mikita was on the point. I me back to Boston where it was blocked a shot from the point and discovered that I had a broken went toward the goaltender on the back. They put me in a big body breakaway. Mikita was coming cast that weighed 20 pounds. I carbehind me-l could hear him ried that thing around for 9 weeks.

"So I'm in the record book as the only player in NHL history to

Stats Glance

• Played 22 pro seasons, fourth longest career in NHL history • Scored 391 goals and had a total of 860 points • Played in several NHL All-Star games Most Memorable Career Moment: "There have been many memories, great memories. When you play 22 years in the National Hockey League-over 1,300 games-that's the case. I was a left winger, and I scored goals. I was known as a two-way hockey player.

"Getting into the Stanley Cup finals. I did that with the Detroit Red Wings in 1966. We played against the Montreal Canadians.

"Getting four goals in a game was memorable.

"Playing against Gordie Howe was exciting for me. My job was to check him.

"Also, playing on five different teams-building relationships with players. Over the years I've never burned a bridge. I was easy to get along with. I love people.

I love working with kids. And I have a good rapport with all my old teammates.

"But I would have to say the true highlight of the past 21 years has been knowing the Lord Jesus and serving Him."

three Minnesota Viking football players- Fred Cox, Jeff Siemon, and Doug Kingsriter- shared their testimonies for Christ.

June liked what she heard and asked the Viking players to call her husband.

Dean went out to lunch with the three and found it "the tuming point in my life."

A few days after hearing God's plan of salvation and after having read the gospel of John, Dean and June knelt down together-confessing their sins and asking Jesus to forgive them.

Prentice recalls feeling as if "I had been skating around with a piano on my back and that it had suddenly lifted." Goodbye piano, hello prince! Now Prentice was a son of the one true King.

These days Dean and June, whose warm personality and bright smile can score a goal with a broken back." • light up a room, share their joy with others. They keep in touch Another incredible event, perhaps even less probable and much with the young men in the Ontario Hockey Leaguemore important, occurred in this a major junior league with 16 tough winger's life as he was leagues and 450 players. wrapping up his years in the pros.

Each OHL player gets a handPrentice had played 21 seasons written Christmas card from the in the NHL and was with the Prentices and also Christian books North Stars when he realized that and Bibles during the season. his life was empty. He felt that Dean and June also enjoy speakhe was trying to live a good life, ing at churches or conferences. but looking back he acknowlOr you might find them playedges that his life was full of ing with their seven grandchilthings like "pride, impatience, dren. Their two daughters, Kelly envy, lust, and drunkenness." and Kerry, are happily married After he retumed from an exhibition game one day with a huge with kids that Grandma and Grandpa love to visit. hangover, he and his wife June It may seem that with his hockhad a heart-to-heart talk. Both confessed their need to find someey ministry and his family, Dean Prentice has a full tally. But he thing to fill the void in their lives. still schedules tee-time- playing While Dean was gone on a that fine British game of golf. road trip, June attended a meetQuite appropriate for a prince ing where she heard a speaker ofa guy. D from Overseas Crusades. Also,

S P O R TS SPECTR UM • D ECEM BER 1 993

21

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

• Athletes Who are Leading by Example

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• • Joe A llison

Reaneanbe:ring Davey TAPED TO ALL-AMERICAN kicker Joe Allison's locker at Memphis State University is a card that says, "THERE AIN'T

.I

TODAY Til AT ME ANDTHELORD CAN'T HANDLE." -DAVEYALLISON Words his famous first cousin lived by, Joe says. "He cherished that so much. It is still hanging up in his office," explains the 1992 Lou Groza Award as the nation's best collegiate kicker.

Joe and his wife Amy had just returned home l a~t July 12 after celebrating their first wedding anni versary. He was talking by phone with his mother, Carol, when the phone clicked. "Mom came back on. She was hysterical. She said Davey and somebody else crashed in a helicopter.

Nobody knew the extent of the injuries. The first thing I did was get down on my knees and pray."

The next morning the phone rang at 7:30. "As soon as it rang, I knew deep down that Davey was gone," Joe recalls. It was his 22

brother Tommy, Davey's general manager and soulmate. " ' My buddy is gone,' he told me," says Joe of that fateful phone call. "I cried."

Davey

Allison, 32, of NASCA R's legendary Allison family, had died of injuries he received when his helicopter crashed at Talladega (AL) Superspeedway. Family friend Red Farmer, who was with him, survi ved.

Joe says his faith in Christ has helped him get a better understanding of "the why of Davey's death. I can't get that question out of my mind. Why a person like Davey?

"A constant tape plays in my head, replaying the times we shared. At first Davey's death was like a big hole, but as time goes on, the hole gets filled up more and more with memories."

Memories such as Davey asking Joe to be the godfather to his daughter Krista. Memories of when Davey and Tommy "used me as a punching bag. The three

of us wrestled and joked around."

Memories of family water skiing trips where they "tried to outdo one another."

And the memory of his cousin's interest in his career.

"Davey wanted to be a big part of my kicking career. He enjoyed watching me and he encouraged me each week. There will not be a day I won't think about him."

Memphis State's all-time leading scorer keeps Davey in his thoughts, but he won't let his death affect him on the field. "I couldn't let it bother me to where I couldn't do my job. He would be extremely upset with me. What I do now is first for the Lord, second for Grandpap ("Pop" Allison, who is deceased}, Clifford, and Davey," Joe says. Davey's brother Clifford died at age 27 after a crash at Michigan International Speedway in 1992.

With a range of 50-plus yards (Joe has kicked three 51-yard field goals, made 23 of 25 field goals in 1992, and set a school record for consecutive extra points}, Allison continues to improve.

Memphis State coach Chuck Stobart calls him the heart of the team because of his mature leadership. Stobart says Joe has used

SPORTS S P ECTRUM - DEC EMBE R 1993

adversity as a "source of motivation as opposed to a source of depression. His faith has a lot to do with it."

Outside linebacker Britton Wilkins agrees. "Joe inspires others to work hard. Joe doesn't seek a lot of glory. r think he does it to glorify the Lord."

Joe says he is growing closer to Christ daily, using his faith to handle what's "gonna come up" each day. " If Jesus hadn't died on the cross for us, where would we be today?" the kicker asks.

As if to answer his own question, he refers to where his cousin is today. "The Lord needed him more than we did down here.

Davey is in a whole lot better place than we are." D -Bill Sorrell

•Mike Hall All-Natural Strength WHAT DO YOU DO if you're 12 years old and can already deadlift 200 pounds over your head?

If you're Mike Hall, you decide to spend your teenage years saying no to . . . .._._ steroids and say~~- ing yes to life as !!!! a world champion weightlifter.

•••••••••

~··················· "And that's not a contradiction," insists Hall, of Millsboro, Delaware. He knows that many people expect weight lifters to take performance-enhancing drugs to improve their chances of winning. But Hall has the credentials to prove that those dangerous drugs are not necessary.

In the 20-plus years since he hoisted 200 pounds as a preteen, Hall has become a I0-time national champion and a 4-time world champion lifter. He holds records for drug-free bench press (633 pounds) and cumulative total for a meet (2340 pounds), which includes squatting nearly half a ton alone. His next goal as a drug-free lifter is to break the world steroid-induced bench press record: 725 pounds.

"I get my strength," says Hall, "solely from the right nutrition, the right amount of sleep, and from the Lord, who created me and helps me resist the many temptations to become chemically dependent." One of these temptations faced Hall when he was in the military. His lifting coach pulled him aside for a little chat. "He told me I'd never be a champion if I didn't systematically take steroids. The shock and hurt I felt was what motivated me to let the world know that you don't have to take drugs to be somebody."

Perhaps he's not reaching the whole world, but a wide variety of groups do seek out this quiet athlete for speaking engagements.

Also, other athletes use Hall's expet1ise in their weight training.

For instance, LA Raider coach At1 Shell sends his draft picks to Hall, who has also trained former NFL players such as Mike Brennan (Bills) and Joe Klecka (Jets).

"My main goal in communicating to this generation," says Hall, "is to let them know about Christ, who is li fe- abundant and eternal. My strength to do this

comes from Him. That's why my message is 'Say no to drugs and say yes to life.'" D - Douglas Lloyd Perkins

• LaTanya Davis Lea.-ning To

Play Big IT WAS A GAME that was beginning to shape up a lot like last year's NBA title game between the Bulls and the Suns.

Score tied 67-67 with just two ticks left on the clock. The ball is passed inside to center LaTanya Davis. She shoots and ....

Unlike John Paxson, who nailed the winner for the Bulls, Davis missed.

Davis' North team went on to lose the game in overtime 81-76 to a much bigger East team in the first contest of the U.S. Olympic Festival in San Antonio.

Naturall y, Davis, a sophomore from Southwest Missouri State, was disappointed.

"I hate myself for missing that shot," she said after the game. "I got the pass too far under the basket, so when I shot it, it just hit the rim and bounced back. God still loves me, though, even though I blew it today."

Actuall y, without Davis the

North would not have been in that position anyway. Playing with a serious knee injury, she refused to give up and helped her team battle back from a I0-point deficit late in the second half.

"Nobody likt:s tu lust:," she said. "Especially me. But when I think of all the people who aren't even here, I'm thankful I was picked to play in the Festival. It 's a tremendous honor."

At 6' I", Davis was one of the smallest centers competing in the Olympic Festival. To her, however, size is a state of mind.

"Just because you aren't big doesn't mean you can't play big," she said. "God has blessed me with the talent to play with anybody. lt doesn't really bother me to get up against someone 4 or 5 inches taller. I know that in those situations I have to be quicker."

While a sophomore at Washington High School in Kansas City, Kansas, Davis tore some ligaments in her left knee.

The following year, she reinjured it and has worn a knee brace since.

Even with the brace, opposing coaches still said Davis was one of the quickest players at the festival.

"The knee brace is a little bit deceptive," said Santa Clara

SPORTS SPECT R UM- DECE MB E R 1 993

!

University coach Caren Horstmeyer, who coached the opposing East team. "Even with the brace on, she still has tremendous quickness. That quickness is really what allowed the Not1h to get back into the game. She's an outstanding player, even though she doesn't have the height that a lot of players at the Festival have."

And how did she get that catlike quickness? "By playing against the boys in my neighborhood when I was growing up," she said, shyly. "When I was growing up, I loved playing basketball, but I was the only girl in my neighborhood who played.

I'd be out on the court and these guys would come onto the court and want to kick me off. They said they were afraid I would get hurt play ing with them. But I showed them that I could play just as good as they could, and it wasn't long before they began to accept me. It really helped me out as a player to play against guys who were better than me."

Outside her donn room at Southwest Missouri State, there's a basketball court where she and her teammates often take on her male classmates.

When she's not playing ball or studying, Davis enjoys listening to music and reading her Bible.

She says she also prays for the other team before each game.

"I always pray for our team and the other team before every game.

"I pray that nobody will get hurt and that we will all do our best.

God has blessed me with so much.

Just to be at the Festival was a tremendous thti ll and I want Him to bless all the players, not just me and my team."

LaTanya Davis knows that God's blessing is not a matter of winning games, it's a matter of benefiting from his presence in her life-and she wants others to have the same experience. D - Jim Gibbs 23

Blue says he'll never is an forget the circumstances overni ght success of his NHL debut. "I had - it just took him jus t played a game in about a decade of Providence, and I was hard work to get there. told I would be starting For the first time the next night in Boston in his career, Blue against Quebec. The was able to enter Bruins were not playing well, and they were hopthis season confident that he would ing to shake things up." be on the roster of In the mo vies, th e rookie comes in, shuts a National Hockey League team. In fact, the out the opposition, and 27 -year-old goaltender becomes an instant icon was looking forward to in Beantown. In real life, the result wasn 't qu ite challenging Jon Casey for that good. But from the number one position Blue 's viewpoint , " It in the nets for the Boston went well. We lost 3-2 Bruins.

It wasn't so long ago in overtime. Kerry that people were telling Huffman got the winner Blue he should give up on about 2 minutes into the overtime. The puck was hockey as a career. That he wasn't good enough. passed out of the comer That his unorthodox, flopand into the slot and he It took a lot of ping style wouldn't work one-timed it. " Blue in theNHL. convincing and a lot didn' t have long to think And during the 1990about his debut, though, 91 season, he might have because he got the nod ofpacking and been ready to believe his from Coach Brian Sutter unpacking, but critics. That was the year two nights later against he played for six teams, New Jersey.

John Blue has found including one of them This start did not go twice, in three different well at all. his way to the " ! was pulled in the minor league systems. "I lived out of suitcases," he middle of the game after Boston Garden recalls. "I lived in motels I gave up four goals," for all but a month.

Blue admits. "The first Sometimes I'd wake up one went in off a

By Lois Thomson defenseman, and then in the morning and not know where I was. But I didn't want to quit." they scored on two breakaways. But on the fourth one The last team Blue played for that season was I got beat by a slapshot from outside the blue line.

Portland, Maine-a Boston farm club. As a result of "The crowd was reall y on me then. They were a good performance there, he signed a 2-year con- shouting, 'We want Reggie.' " Reggie Lemelin, that tract with the Bruins as a free agent in August 1991. is, a veteran goaltender who had retired from the It looked like the break he had been waiting for. "It Bruins in midseason, a decision that had not been was not," he admits now. "We were the worst team popular with the fans. in the [American Hockey] League." And when he Disconsolate, Blue returned to the bench, figuring arrived at training camp, the Bruins told him they he had blown his big chance. It could have been a didn't have any plans for him and tried to buy out shattering situation, but instead the you ng goalthe final year of his contract. tender found peace because of his relationship with When Blue refused, Boston ass igned him to God. Blue felt that God was letting him know, Portland again, where he didn't even start a game "Look what you've done, look where you are. Trust for the first few weeks. Once he got his chance, in Me. I'm not going to let you down." though, he made the most of it: "When I finally " It co uld have been th e worst time," Blue played, we won seven in a row. I went 14 and 4, acknowledges. "But I was able to think of Him, and with one tie before I was called up." a peace came over me."

OHN B LUE

24

SPO R T S SPECTRUM • DECEMBER 1 993

That John Blue was playing hockey at all is quite surprising, let alone being good enough to fill the crease for the Boston Bruins. Born in Huntington Beach, Californi a, he would seem to be more at home on a surfboard than on an ice rink. His initial interest in the winter sport came about mainly because of a brief stay in Seattle when his famil y moved there for about a year and a half.

Blue was 6 at the time, and playing hockey seemed a natu ral thing to do because so many of his little Seattle friends were involved in the game. That short stay was enough to pique his interest in the ice sp011.

The Blue family moved back to California after the stop in Seattle. As the years passed, he continued to pursue hockey. He liked football , but he realized that at 5' I0" and 175 pounds he could never be a middle linebacker. He also knew that if he was to further his hockey career, he would have to go elsewhere. "I had a couple of friends who played in Des Moines in the United States Hockey League, so I went there for a year," he says. "I left before my senior year in high school, and I had to take correspondence courses to graduate." But he performed well enough both on the ice and in his studies to receive a scholarship to the University of Minnesota.

That alone was quite a feat, because the U of M prefers homebodies and had never awarded a scholarship to anyone from California. Since Blue left in 1987, the university hasn' t featured another nonMinnesota player on the roster.

During his 3 years with the Golden Gophers, Blue compiled a 64-25- 1 record and was named to the Western Collegiate Hockey Association All-Star Team in 1986. Despite his performance, he had difficulty convincing NHL teams of his ability. Blue thinks he didn't get a lot of attention because he wasn't able to develop his skills completely while growing up on the West Coast.

"I never had the coaching in California because hockey wasn't real big there," he explains. "And I got to play onl y two or three times a week, whereas kids in Canada play every day. So my style-! play all over the pl ace- is not as textbook as coaches would like. I've tried to change parts of it.

I stand up more now. But some of it is just the way I grew up playing."

His play at the University of .... Late start.

Huntington Minnesota, however, did lead Beach, California, to hi s bein g drafted by th e is not noted for Winni peg Jets as their ninth frozen lakes and selection in 1986. After anethhockey teams, so er year of college and spending it wasn 't until a season in the Jets' minorJohn Blue migrat- league system, Blue was choed north that his interest in hockey sen to be a member of the 1988 U.S. Olympic team. was born. " It was a great experience," he recalls about th at honor.

S P O RT S SPECTRUM • DECEMBER 1 993

25

TAKIN G

Turk Who? M ONTREAL FORUM .

Rocket Richard . Howie Morenz. Jean Beliveau.

Maple Leaf Gardens.

Turk Broda. Frank Mavhovlich. Ted Kennedy. Those names and what they mean to hockey send chills down the spine of the average hockey fan.

To John Blue they don't mean a thing.

While Blue was growing up in California more than a decade ago, the West Coast state was not considered a hotbed of hockey. Because this was obviously pre-Sharks, he never saw a pro game while living in the San Jose area. So his knowledge of the sport consisted primarily of his own circle of friends and the youth teams for which he played.

So when he arrived in the National Hockey League, Blue didn't know much about the history of the sport. "I liked to play the game, but I wasn't a big hockey fan," Blue admits.

"So last season when I went into a place like Montreal, people would say, 'Aren't you nervous? They've won so many championships here. Look at all the banners.' And they'd start to name people who played in the building. But I'd say, 'Who's that ?' I didn't know anything about any mystique. To me, it was just another place to play."

- Lois Thomson

26

THE

BLUE

LIN E

TO

BOSTON

"The yea r before the out the powerful Pittsburgh Olympics we traveled all Penguin s 7-0. He admits over the world. We went being a little netvous about to Sw itzerland, Sweden, fac ing the Stanl ey Cup Germany, all th e major champions, but points out, "I had been in so many situacities in the United States and Canada. Then, being a tions in the past that I knew part of the opening cerewhatever happened, it was monies in Calgary- it was in the Lord's hands. As long great, except we didn' t do as I worked hard I could just that well." relax and play, and it was Despite being loaded with out of my control." talent, the team finished sevBlue also gives credit to enth and Blue didn 't play. his coach for having confidence in him. "At first I was Current NHL starters Mike Richter of the Rangers and there just to fill a spot on the Chris Ten·eri of New Jersey roster. He could have sat me hand led the goaltending out after that New Jersey game, but he kept playing duties for Team USA. Other Olympians now playing in me. That helped a lot." Blue th e NHL in clude Bri an finished last season with a 9Leetch (Rangers), Kevin 8-4 record and was 0-1 in STEVE BABiNEAU Stevens (Pittsburgh), Craig .& Job sharing. As the new NHL season got the playoffs, replacing Andy Janney (St. Louis), and Jeff underway, John Blue and Jon Casey shared the Moog in one game and stallduties of minding the net for the Bruins.

Nonon (Islanders). ing anot her as the Bruins Even though Blue didn 't were swept by Buffalo. have a chance to prove himself in the Olympics, the But the Bruins were sufficientl y pleased wi th his Minnesota North Stars picked him up in a trade with the style to offer him a 2-year contract this past summer; Jets in 1988 and signed him to a contract. "I thought I'd they also traded Moog to Dallas for Casey. Before the play in the NHL right away and everything would be start of the season, Blue said that based on Casey's great," Blue says. "The year before I left Olympic camp, experience he considered the veteran to be the number I got a letter from my pastor and he included a Bible one goalie going into training camp. "But you never verse from Peter, which says, ' Hum ble yourselves, know what's going to happen. My biggest asset is that I therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift work hard and don't give up. The Lord has given me a you up in due time' ( I Peter 5:6). I learned that God's gift, but I have to work hard to use it. It would be a time and our time aren't the same." He paused to chuck- waste if I didn 't give it everything I had." le. "It's so funny how we think. I can just see the Lord Throughout his career struggles, Blue says his parents laughing sometimes and saying, 'John, don't worry, I' ll stood by him at all times. "We're a close family and they do things in My time.'" were very supportive. Sometimes I think it was tougher Meanwhile, Blue's time was spent touring the minor on them than it was on me. But they said, ' If you keep playing, we're there for you.' As long as I had a contract leagues. In 1988-89 he played in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and the next year he di vided his time between Phoeni x I intended to keep playing." and Knoxville. The following season was the infamous John , along with an older sister, grew up in a campaign that began in Kalamazoo, went on to Troy, Christian home, and he remembers trusting in Jesus New York; back to Kalamazoo; then followed with Christ for salvation at a young age. But it was after high stops in Knoxville; Albany, New York; Peori a, Illinois; school that he made a total commitment. "One night I and Portland, Maine. He would have been a good can- just sat down and prayed. I knew I wasn't walking with the Lord like I should. I was going to college and I didate for the Philadelphia Frequent Flyers.

"Each time I kept thinking, 'Lord.• what's going on?' I knew I had to take a stand. It wasn't easy, but I thank just didn't understand. I kept trying to control every sit- God that He was patient."

Over the past several years John has learned a little uation. People were telling me I should retire, I wasn't a good goalie, my style wou ldn 't work. But I remembered about patience himself. "That's the toughest thing, to Proverbs 3:5, which says, 'Trust in the Lord with all try to be patient. But you've just got to hold on and your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.' wait, and let the Lord make the moves."

And with each team I went to, the Lord confirmed that I was there to serve Him. He would bring someone into Lois Thomson is a freelan ce writer who lives in my path for me to speak to about Him. I finall y reached Pittsburgh. the point where I realized He wanted me in the minors so I could serve Him. And I accepted it."

• Jolm Blue learned to be patielll as lie waited for l1is silot at tile Blue's patience finall y paid off. After being called up NHL. Often it's liard to make decisions wilen we are in the waiting

by Boston and suffering losses in those initial two games, mode, for we're not sure wlwt our next step mig/it be. For help he got his third consecutive stmt and defeated Buffalo 5-2 1rit/i tilis problem, write to Sports Spectrum and ask for tile ji"ee for his first NHL victory. And in the next contest he shut booklet How Can I Know What God Wants Me To Do? SPORTS SPECTR UM - DECEM BER 1 993

..! /J :::::)

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•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• • •

World Cup Opportunities, Hoops and Naism,ith's Dream, A. C.'s Video, and God Rules Ministry God Rules letes let God rule Ministry in their li ves.

GOD RULES TilE LIFE -Allen Palmeri of Todd Kinchen.

For more on How else do you God Rules explain his putting Ministry, write to 8,000 miles on his 5854 Menlo Drive, car last Baton Rouge, LA February 70808. Or call 504-769-1744. through April in an odyssey that took him to all Get Up fo ..

12 schools in the the Cup Southeastem WHAT HAPPEI\IS Conference?

WHEN you put the What Kinchen .A. On the run. Third-year world's biggest did is not normal. pro Todd Kinchen gains sp011s toumament yardage in the fall and He had just com- mileage in the spring. together with the pleted his rookie world's best news? season as a wide receiver/punt You get Up for the Cup. returner for the Los Angeles Beginning in March, a coaliRams. A few months of rest in tion of groups worki ng under hometown Baton Rouge would the direction of Sports Outreach have been in order.

America will kick off Up for the But Kinchen has a vision for Cup, a unique venture designed God Rules Ministry. That vision to give American soccer fans an is to see God ruling in the lives extra bonus. of SEC athletes. To see that Up for the Cup is an eff011 to vision come to pass, Kinchen share the gospel with the throngs knows he has to work. That 's who will be visiting the nine host why he sacrificed the bulk of his cities of the World Cup of Soccer.

NFL off-season for the good of A committee in each city is planhis fellow Christian athletes. ning youth rallies, spotts clinics, Kinchen made it a point to breakfasts, and distribution of litspend a couple of days on each erature like Sports Spectmm magcampus, getting to know athletes azine to let soccer fans know that and coaches. As a former All-SEC although winning the World Cup performer at LSU, he had already is good, knowing Jesus Christ as built his platform. His. NFL sucSavior is the best thing that could happen to anyone. cess helped strengthen that platform. But Ki nchen is quick to To find out more, write to SOA , downplay any human eff011.

1610 Elizabeth Street, Pasadena, "I just constantly say, if it's • CA 91104. Or ca11 818-398-2378; from God, it's gonna happen," : fax818-398-2471.

Kinchen says. "It's an extreme satisfaction knowing God is A.C. Tells the T.-uth working through me."

AMIDALL TilE VOICES that are On his tour of the SEC, being raised in the debate about Kinchen was able to hold a conAIDS, safe sex, and today's young ference where he met with athpeople, a strong new voice is stat1· letes from e'very school except ing to be heard. It is the voice of Auburn as he makes himself A.C. Green of the Phoenix Suns. It available to help college athis the voice that needs to get the

Retun~ing Hoops to Its Roots According to sports historian Dr. Tony Ladd of Wheaton (JL) College, the origins of basketball can be credited, at least par· tially, to the missionary vision of its inventor, Dr. James Naismith. Ladd's studies have shown that Naismith "wanted to invent a game that would provide a means ... to lead other young men to Christ." Today that vision is being shared through a growing number ofgroups that use hoops as the tool Naismith had in mind. Here are some ways that's happening.

Caracas Cagers

Last summer, David Wallace of Park Hill Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas, took a group of high school hoopsters to Caracas, Venezuela. The team discovered that it could open doors that had been closed to traditional church workers. In fact, the basketball team helped a local church gain the confidence of the community. Through hoops, a friendship between the church and the local citizenry was developed, allowing more and more people to hear the gospel.

Jammln' Against the Darkness

Another hoops event from the summer of '93 was Jammin' Against the Darkness, the brainchild of David Wood, then of the Spurs. He envisioned an arena full of people who had come to hear the gospel, not see a game. In the 2 nights the Jammin · event was held, more than 12,000 people visited the HemisFair and heard Wood, along with David Robinson and Avery Johnson tell of their faith in Jesus Christ. More than I,500 people decided to trust Him as Savior during the event. Giving support to the Spurs was Champions for Christ, a ministry headed by John-Paul Morgante.

'Y The Long Haul

.A. Out of town.

For Brent Fuqua and his Athletes in Action teamDavid Wood now suits up mates, their mission was more long term. They changed the traditional pattern of traveling basketball for the Pistons. teams by staying for 4 1/2 months in the Philippines.

By doing that, the team was able to spend more time developing relationships and helping new believers in Jesus get started.

The AlA team played approximately 50 basketball games during their stay, and they introduced the gospel to nearly 18,000 people. attention of teenagers across America, for it's the voice of tntth.

Listen for this voice in a justreleased video called It Ain' 1 Worth It sponsored by A.C. Green Programs for Youth. In the video, A.C. gets together with David Robinson, football greats Barry Sanders and Darrell Green, as well as Olympic decathlete Dave Johnson to tell young people that

SPORTS S PECTRUM· DEC E MBER 1 993

"there is only one safe way to truly protect oneself against deadly diseases and unwanted pregnanciesabstaining from sexual intercourse until matTiage, and mutual fidelity for life to an un infected pru1ner."

To order It Ain 't Worth It, call 1-800-AC YOUTH. Or write to A.C. Green Programs for Yowh, 515 S. Figueroa, Suite 2000, Los Angeles, CA 90071.

27

When the Atlanta Hawks picked up Craig Ehlo from the Cavs, they completed...

8 81810 onn8cion

By Sam Woolwine

28

S P O R TS S PE C TR U M • DECEMBE R i 993

ORMER CLEVELAND Needless to say , he Cavalier Craig no longer does charity Ehlo stood at halfauctions. Hello humilicourt of the UTty, exit ego.

But Wilkens has C h a tt a n ooga Arena, palming a long respected talents Ehlo brings to a team. basketba ll in one hand , while talkSome writers have in g in hu shed referred to him as Mr. Everyth ing because of tones to a pair of his new Atlanta Hawk teammates, his ability to play three positions, and hi s verJon Koncak and Steve satilit y. Onl y 32 days Henson.

Practice, for the most after Wilkens was hi red part, was over, alth ough as th e Hawk coach, the thud, thud, thud of basAt lan ta proffered a contract offer to freeketballs echoed across the floor as other members of agen t Eh lo, and he the team continued shootaccepted. ing on their own. Ehlo "I see myself as kind la ughed soft ly, then of a liaison on this team, unleashed a shot from the especially at this point. I know Coach Wilkens arc at halfcourt. The ball careened off the glass, and his coaching style. missing its mark.

It is something I can Kon cak, the most pass along to the other un like ly of the th ree to members of the team," make anything longer than said Ehlo, his blond hair streaked with sweat I0 feet, banked in a shot from the midcourt stri pe from the second of the on hi s second attempt. A Extra effort. Having surprised himself and everyone two-a-days. else by putting together a 10-year career in the NBA, Ehlo is 32 years old.

Ehlo feigned faintin g, Craig Ehlo has proved that if you bend over backward It is his II th season in Henson looked at the bas- to do your best and improve, you can succeed. ket incredu lously, not the NBA , and this is believing what he had the first season of a 3seen. Lenny Wilkens, the year contract wi th the new At lanta coach, Hawks, a team that has watched from the other end of the floor, his arms foldlabored somewhat in mediocrity over the past 5 years. ed, and shook his head.

That despite possessing a wealth of talent and one of It was early in preseason, Ehlo was culturing relathe game's most spectacular players in Dominique tionships on his new team and, in a nonchalant and Wilkins. In that time period, the Hawks have made the playoffs three times, but haven't progressed subtle way, helping his new teammates adjust to the new coach. Wilkens is a basketball legend who began beyond the first round. coaching before most members of the Hawks had The wiry 6-7 Ehlo may not be the missing piece to even thought abo ut touching a basketball , before the puzzle that is Atlanta, but he brings to Atlanta skills that could and should make them a better team. some of them were born, and long before Michael "Pete (Babcock, general manager) and I talked a Jordan and Larry Bird became household names. great deal about how we could make Atlanta a better Ehlo is a link to the past for Wilkens, and vice-versa.

The two were together in Cleveland for 7 years. Four of team. We needed help," admits Wilkens. "Craig brings those years, the Cavs made the playoffs. Needless to a certain amount of energy to this team. He makes say, Ehlo is not a marquee name. Never has been, never things happen, he is intelligent, knows the game, can will be. Far from it in fact. shoot, and he does the little things that help you win.

Case in point. At a benefit auction, held in his He can be a great asset to this team," the basketball hometown in Texas, he had sent a Cavalier jersey Hall-of-Famer explained.

It is somewhat ironic that Ehlo becomes a Hawk, for signed by him. It was left unpurchased. At a benefit auction in Massillon, Ohio, not far from Cleveland, a he is a symbol of that term on the court. Although signed pair of his shoes is purchased at below market appearing sometimes awkward and gangly, he plays price ... by himself. Ehlo was at the auction, deciddefense well, and takes pride in that. For years, it was ed to set the bid process rol li ng, and offered $50.

Ehlo whom Wi lkens ca ll ed on to slow down There were no other bidders. Ehlo was stuck wi th his Michael- it is poignanll y obvious that nobody ever own shoes. stopped him. Twice in his career, including last season,

SPORTS SPECTR UM • D ECE MBER 1993

29

T H E

CLEVELAND

MICHAEL A. SCHWARZ

Hello and goodby. By flying south to join Lenny Wilkens, new Hawk Craig Ehio left behind his good friend and neighbor Mark Price.

A.

he led Cleveland in steals. He plays with his head as hard as he plays with his heart.

"Craig plays very aggressively out there. He knows how to play defense," claims assistant coach Dick Helm, an assistant to Wilkens the past 10 years.

Though the aggression has always been there, this aggression is different from what it was some years ago.

It's more channeled, more purposeful, less scatter-gun.

"Craig has always been the kind of player who has had to rely on his aggressiveness to play defense. But over the years we've noticed a change- he seems to be playing with more control, rat her than in bedlam or mayhem," declares Helm. "I'.m sure his faith has had a lot to do with that. Craig has become a meeker person. The world looks at meekness as weak ness, but meekness is actuall y strength under control. He is a more controlled person and he plays more under cont rol ," Helm adds.

Ehlo hasn' t always been that way. At one time his aggression would cause regression.

"I used to say th ings that I would regret, holler at other players, scream at officials, and talk back to the coaches. This is a very difficult game to keep control of yo ur emotions. It 's up and down, down and up.

Tempers flare, bodies are pushed around, elbows fly, you win and you lose. Things are sometimes very hectic. It isn' t easy to keep yourse lf under cont ro l," 30

CO NN ECTIO N

relates Ehlo.

The person Ehlo most admires is one who lived a life of self-cont rol, although His very life was controversial, causing even His friends to react violently, much less those who spoke out against Him. It is the man who lived 2,000 years ago, Jesus Christ.

Most professional athletes are called upon to fill out a form to be used in th e team media guide.

Sometimes the questions asked are personal, to give writers insight into personalities. Under "personal info" in Atlanta 's brochure, Ehlo lists the person he admires most as Christ.

"That's because of things I've read abou t Him , things I've been told about Him, how He kept his self-control in the midst of storms. He set a perfect example of what we ought to be, and Christ has been very helpful to me as a person and as a professional, in this league."

This is the same league, the NBA, in which Charles Barkley got so much publicity for declaring publicly that he didn't look at himself as a role model. Perhaps Barkley doesn 't, but Ehlo does.

"Our behavior is important because of who we are and because we are very visible to hundreds and thousands of young people. What we do has a tendency to influence other people. I want to be a positive influence on the lives of others, especially young people."

Ehlo is also hoping he'll be a positive influence on the Atlanta Hawks, but he admits that he will miss Cleveland.

"One of the inherent problems with this profession is that you make friends and then you leave them. You say you'll keep in touch, and with some you do, but it isn't easy because you're always on the go."

The person he will miss must in Cleveland undoubtedly will be Mark Price, the priceless one who is the driving force behind the Cavs and an NBA All-Star. Ehlo teamed more than just basketball from the fanner Georgia Tech All-American. It was Price who disturbed Ehlo's past lifestyle, who influenced him to become a Christian.

"I had grown up in a small town, had gone to church and Vacation Bible School, even been baptized. I had drifted away from that and when Mark asked me one night if I knew if I were to die tonight, would I go to heaven, I didn't know quite what to say. I know now what to say because of Christ's death. He died for me personally."

Ehlo realizes that he will not be Atlanta's top scorer or rebounder. He will leave that to Dominique and Kevin Willis. At age 32, he is past worrying about whether he will even be a starter, something he doesn't feel he will do with Stacey Augmon playi ng ahead of him.

"I hope that I can help make Stacey a better player. I don't think I'm competing for a job- l'm out of that stage, but I feel there are some things that I can share with Stacey that can help him leam more about winning."

With Craig Ehlo, those "things" conjure up more than something just on the cotn1, but in life as well.

Sam Woolwine is tlte sports editor of the Chattanooga News-Free Press in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

SPORTS S P ECTR UM 路 D ECEMBER 1 993

••••••••••••••••••••••••••

''Don't Read My Lips'' Do Real Athletes Have To Talk Trash?

• By Dave Branon feelings of harshness, bittemess, and lack of respect for God. To back up the correlation between inner goodness and outer expression, look at the content of some recent movies. If you wanted to examine movies that would be considered kind, thoughtful, and positive, you could list Free Willy, Dennis the Menace, Happily Ever After, and The Sandlot. To explore the darker, evil side of life, you'd consider In the Line of Fire, Indecent Proposal, and Except Cliffhanger. sports. Nice, •• ~ 't/'f' A Besides the obvious difclean sports. Sports ,~ ferences in theme where people follow the rules, ·.~ and content try to reach their potential, strive for excellence, and, generally speaking, win and lose graciously. two sets of It 's great family viewing. movies, Most of the time.

An increasingly troubling pat- • there's also a major difference in language. The four tern is developing, though. While kinder, gentler films averaged two the talent is getting better, the incidences of swearing and three language is getting worse. incidences of using God's name In one sense, I can understand. improperly. Although it would be The language of the general poppreferred that they had none of ulace is deteriorating so rapidly that, look at the di fference when that it almost makes me want to compared with the movies that wear earmuffs. People (including p011ray assassinations, adulterers, kids) use the crudest words and and terrorists. The average use of employ God's name in the most bad language in those dark flicks vile ways- without a thought as was 65 examples of cmde lanto whose ears might be violated. guage and 15 examples of using We've missed the point of the God's name as profanity (Source: old "Sticks and stones can break Ellfertainment Research Report). my bones but words can never This verifies something Jesus, hurt me" ditty. Yes, words are the greatest of all teachers, said. damaging. They have an adverse "The things that come out of the effect on the hearer. mouth come from the heart" But more impo11ant is what (Matthew 15: 18). they tell about the user. Words The increase in rotten language are the window to our heart and in our society, then, appears to soul, revealing what is otherwise buried inside. When a person uses signal an increasingly hostile populace. Anger and hatred are on the language that is kind, respectable, rise, making a rise in profane lanand honoring to deity, he or she guage in sp011s predictable. reflects a heart that minors those But not inevitable. Self-control characteristics. Those who spout was once an admired quality obscenities and disrespectful refamong the athletes we revered. It erences to deity harbor internal A YBE THERE AREN'T

!!

a lot of folks like us left, but at our house when the people on TV start polluting our famil y room with swearing and profanity, we zap them quicker than you can say, "Where's the remote?" Which means we avoid most of what 's on TV.

&J'

·

would have been unthinkable to see someone like Oscar Robertson or AI Kaline uttering obscenities during a game. It was an unspoken rule that player decorum was G-rated.

It would have been unthinkable to tune in to the NBA Finals and see a coach pacing the sidelines spewing filthy language, as has happened in recent years. That's why the performance of Paul Westphal in last season's Finals was so refreshing. A thff>wback to a day wheu_real men had self-control,

inner strength.

Some believe that the tougher you are, the dirtier the language.

But think about it. How tough is it not to have self-control? The really tough athletes are the ones who can face adversity without letting fly all the profanity they've ever heard. It takes absolutely no self-control to use garbage language. It

takes a person of courage to corral the tongue.

Let's refer again to the Bible.

Look at what one of the writers said about this subject. "Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person . .. No man can tame the tongue" (James 3:5,6,8).

Sounds hopeless. If "no man can tame the tongue," can we hope for anything but a continuation of power forwards shouting profanities on national TV? Yes, we can. Think of Westphal and his winsome sideline way~e was not taming his own tongue. He lives under the control of the Holy Spirit of God. As a believer in Jesus, PatJ.llhas the power of God's Spi rir inside to help him control his emotions and his tongue. It's a matter of Spirit control rather than self-control.

It would be great to have more Paul Westphals, but that may be too much to ask. Instead of focusing on the big picture, each of us should look internally, making sure we have the inner peace that leads to outward expressions of graciousness.

We may never be seen on national TV reacting to a rotten call by a ref, but if we have tongue-control, we'll be able to make the day brighter for everyone around us. Who knows, if we can influence enough people, maybe we can even make sports trash talk unacceptable.

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