From 2007 to 2015, few hitters in Major League Baseball were as feared as Josh Hamilton. But it’s not his athletic prowess we are here to recognize today. Hamilton has a success story unlike any other.

For years, he battled demons that would have killed most people, but with the power of family and religion, Hamilton mounted a seemingly impossible comeback that will inspire generations of baseball players.

Understanding Hamilton’s Roots

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One could analyze stats of Josh Hamilton’s illustrious nine-year career for days, but to really get a full appreciation of Hamilton, you have to understand his roots.

In 1999, Hamilton was the first-overall draft pick by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Yet, he didn’t make his major-league debut until 2007. The struggle all started in 2000 which was a season ending injury.

Unable to participate in the sport he grew up playing every day, Hamilton looked for other sources of entertainment. Being a millionaire right out of high school meant Hamilton had the funds to experiment.

The Slippery Slope Of Addiction

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Before too long, Hamilton befriended a local tattoo parlor where he quickly amassed up to 32 tattoos. Alongside this lifestyle came parties with the wrong crowd. Up until that point, Hamilton steered clear of drugs and alcohol. All it took was one day to change all of that.

After trying his first alcoholic drink, Hamilton experimented with cocaine merely hours afterward.

In an exclusive interview, Hamilton explained his mental state during his experimentation saying “there is a little guy that lives right here,” as he points to his forehead. “That’s the guy that tells you not to use drugs. When I take my first drink. That little guy leaves. I’ve never used drugs without having a drink first.”

It was this mentality that kept Hamilton on drugs for years. Meanwhile, his body deteriorated in front of the eyes of his loving friends and family. But right when Hamilton was at his lowest point, divine intervention stepped in.

Dealing With The Devil

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In June of 2006, Hamilton was having reoccurring dreams of intense fights with a terrifying figure he believes to be the devil. Yet, after the MLB called Hamilton to reinstate his eligibility, the dreams starting taking a positive turn.

Suddenly, Jesus Christ was fighting alongside Hamilton and together, they defeated the devil. Back in reality, another person stood nearby to fight the upcoming challenges. Hamilton cites his grandmother as an inspiring force in his recovery and success in baseball. She helped him remain focused on his faith and on the game.

Later on, Hamilton admitted that he “abused my body. I abused it badly. I think I’ll pay for that the rest of my life.” While Hamilton managed to squeeze nine stellar seasons out of his tumultuous life, the physical effects began to plague him.

2015 saw him with a new string of injuries, but that didn’t stop him from trying to come back once again from the “impossible.” For anyone who has dealt with inner demons in the face of defeat, look to Josh Hamilton as a shining example of what a little faith and family can accomplish.

The post This MLB Superstar Says God Saved His Life When He Was At His Lowest appeared first on SportzBonanza.

It’s hard enough trying to break into Major League Baseball as it is, but imagine doing so with just one hand. Jim Abbott never had to imagine. Since birth, he was born without his right hand. That never stopped him from pursuing his dream, though.

Not only did Abbott make it into the big leagues as a pitcher, but he made history and inspired millions in the process.

When Life Gives You Lemons

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Since Abbott was born without a right hand, he learned early that adapting to the world in his condition was essential for survival. Abbott didn’t let anything stand in his way, especially not baseball. As a boy, he learned to play ball just like any kid in the neighborhood. The only difference being he had to invent a method to catch and throw with the same hand.

It was this method Abbott continued to use his entire life. He practiced by throwing balls against his family’s house. When the balls bounced back, he had to get the glove off as fast as possible to avoid chasing the ball down the street. Eventually, this evolved into Abbott switching the glove between hands without even a second thought.

In his biography, Abbott states this process was “unquestionably a process of trial and error. Whatever you do though, don’t give up.” As you’ll see, this Abbott stood by this philosophy throughout his life.

Making A Name In Michigan

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Throughout high school, Abbott was a standout pitcher and quarterback. Michigan was already aware of his greatness and it started to catch on in the professional baseball league.

As a result, the Toronto Blue Jays drafted Abbott in the 36th round of the 1985 MLB draft, but he did not sign. Instead, Abbott opted to head to the University of Michigan. There, he played baseball for three years, leading the team to two Big Ten championships.

After proving himself in college, Abbott got his chance once again in the pros. This time, the California Angels drafted Abbott 8th overall in 1988. Now, his unique pitching ability would be displayed on the world’s largest baseball stage. Abbott was determined not to disappoint the millions of curious fans.

A Glorious Climax

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“The no-hitter was the highlight of my career. The specialness of it, I didn’t know how lasting it would be when it happened.” Abbott wasn’t the only one on September 4, 1993, who felt the special energy at Yankee Stadium.

That day, Abbott’s undying efforts came to a glorious climax when he pitched a no-hitter against the Cleveland Indians. He describes the day as being akin to an out-of-body experience. “For a tiny second, you’re outside yourself.”

Having since retired, Abbott uses his story as a motivational tool in lectures around the country. So next time you think the world is against you and you’re up against defeat, think of Jim Abbott. He fought hard against a life of challenge, yet it wasn’t nearly enough to stop him from achieving greatness.

The post This MLB Star Dominated The Field, Despite Not Having A Hand appeared first on SportzBonanza.

In 2002, NFL linebacker Pat Tillman left his climactic career with the Arizona Cardinals to join the U.S. Army. What began as an inspirational show of patriotism ended in tragedy when Tillman was fatally shot in 2004. Today, Tillman’s legacy continues to live on due to his show of loyalty, dedication, and compassion to his country.

Finding His Footing In Arizona

Throughout his life, football always came naturally for Tillman—but it wasn’t until his college years that he reached new heights of talent. While at Arizona State University, Tillman dominated both on the field and in the classroom. In 1997, the linebacker helped his team reach an undefeated season and earn a trip to the 1997 Rose Bowl.

Later that year, he was selected as the Pac-10 Defensive Player of The Year and also as the ASU Most Valuable Player. On the academic side, Tillman earned honors such as the Clyde B. Smith Academic Award in 1996 and 1997, the Sporting News Honda Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 1997 and the Sun Angel Student of the Year in 1998.

The secret behind Tillman’s success? “Passion is kind of important to me,” he said, “whether it’s playing sports or whether it’s just living.” If you aren’t going to be passionate about something, then why do it?

The Arizona Cardinals saw this passion in the young Tillman, which led to them picking him in the 1998 NFL Draft.

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Leaving Success For A Better Cause

Following the tragic events surrounding 9/11, Tillman made a bold decision to put his burgeoning NFL career on hold and join the military. Tillman surprised the sports world with the announcement, turning down a $3.6 million contract with the Cardinals in the process.

In 2002, Tillman explained that “sports embodies many of the qualities I deem meaningful. However, these last few years, and especially after recent events, I’ve come to appreciate just how shallow and insignificant my role is… It’s no longer important.”

Joined by his brother Kevin, Pat enlisted after the 2001 NFL season. The two went through rigorous training to become U.S. Army Rangers and were assigned to the second battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment. Tillman served in several tours of duty, both in Operation Iraqi Freedom as well as Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

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Mournful Events Led To An Inspirational Legacy

On April 22, 2004, Pat Tillman was killed in action while on a mission in eastern Afghanistan. Initially, reports stated that Tillman’s death was the result of an enemy ambush in a canyon. In following weeks, though, many unanswered questions piqued government interest.

The Pentagon opened an investigation and continued to find more inaccuracies and contradictions surrounding the event. Eventually, it was ruled that Tillman’s death was the result of friendly fire after he was mistaken for an enemy soldier.

Tillman’s family wasn’t going to let that be his legacy, though.

In addition to receiving Purple Heart and Silver Star Medals from the military, Tillman’s number was retired by Arizona State University and the Arizona Cardinals. In May of 2010, Tillman was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

That same year, the NFL joined forces with the Pat Tillman Foundation to create the NFL-Tillman Scholarship. This honors an individual who “exemplifies Pat Tillman’s enduring legacy of service.”

Today, Tillman’s legacy stands as a motivational reminder—it’s best said in his own words: “Somewhere inside, we hear a voice. It leads us in the direction of the person we wish to become. But it is up to us whether or not to follow.”

Pat Tillman followed that voice and America is eternally grateful for it.

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The post From NFL Star To American Hero: The Inspirational Legacy Of Pat Tillman appeared first on SportzBonanza.

From 2007 to 2015, few hitters in Major League Baseball were as feared as Josh Hamilton. But it’s not his athletic prowess we are here to recognize today. Hamilton has a success story unlike any other.

For years, he battled demons that would have killed most people, but with the power of family and religion, Hamilton mounted a seemingly impossible comeback that will inspire generations of baseball players.

Understanding Hamilton’s Roots

Instagram

One could analyze stats of Josh Hamilton’s illustrious nine-year career for days, but to really get a full appreciation of Hamilton, you have to understand his roots.

In 1999, Hamilton was the first-overall draft pick by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Yet, he didn’t make his major-league debut until 2007. The struggle all started in 2000 which was a season ending injury.

Unable to participate in the sport he grew up playing every day, Hamilton looked for other sources of entertainment. Being a millionaire right out of high school meant Hamilton had the funds to experiment.

The Slippery Slope Of Addiction

Instagram

Before too long, Hamilton befriended a local tattoo parlor where he quickly amassed up to 32 tattoos. Alongside this lifestyle came parties with the wrong crowd. Up until that point, Hamilton steered clear of drugs and alcohol. All it took was one day to change all of that.

After trying his first alcoholic drink, Hamilton experimented with cocaine merely hours afterward.

In an exclusive interview, Hamilton explained his mental state during his experimentation saying “there is a little guy that lives right here,” as he points to his forehead. “That’s the guy that tells you not to use drugs. When I take my first drink. That little guy leaves. I’ve never used drugs without having a drink first.”

It was this mentality that kept Hamilton on drugs for years. Meanwhile, his body deteriorated in front of the eyes of his loving friends and family. But right when Hamilton was at his lowest point, divine intervention stepped in.

Dealing With The Devil

Instagram

In June of 2006, Hamilton was having reoccurring dreams of intense fights with a terrifying figure he believes to be the devil. Yet, after the MLB called Hamilton to reinstate his eligibility, the dreams starting taking a positive turn.

Suddenly, Jesus Christ was fighting alongside Hamilton and together, they defeated the devil. Back in reality, another person stood nearby to fight the upcoming challenges. Hamilton cites his grandmother as an inspiring force in his recovery and success in baseball. She helped him remain focused on his faith and on the game.

Later on, Hamilton admitted that he “abused my body. I abused it badly. I think I’ll pay for that the rest of my life.” While Hamilton managed to squeeze nine stellar seasons out of his tumultuous life, the physical effects began to plague him.

2015 saw him with a new string of injuries, but that didn’t stop him from trying to come back once again from the “impossible.” For anyone who has dealt with inner demons in the face of defeat, look to Josh Hamilton as a shining example of what a little faith and family can accomplish.

The post This MLB Superstar Says God Saved His Life When He Was At His Lowest appeared first on SportzBonanza.

It’s hard enough trying to break into Major League Baseball as it is, but imagine doing so with just one hand. Jim Abbott never had to imagine. Since birth, he was born without his right hand. That never stopped him from pursuing his dream, though.

Not only did Abbott make it into the big leagues as a pitcher, but he made history and inspired millions in the process.

When Life Gives You Lemons

Twitter

Since Abbott was born without a right hand, he learned early that adapting to the world in his condition was essential for survival. Abbott didn’t let anything stand in his way, especially not baseball. As a boy, he learned to play ball just like any kid in the neighborhood. The only difference being he had to invent a method to catch and throw with the same hand.

It was this method Abbott continued to use his entire life. He practiced by throwing balls against his family’s house. When the balls bounced back, he had to get the glove off as fast as possible to avoid chasing the ball down the street. Eventually, this evolved into Abbott switching the glove between hands without even a second thought.

In his biography, Abbott states this process was “unquestionably a process of trial and error. Whatever you do though, don’t give up.” As you’ll see, this Abbott stood by this philosophy throughout his life.

Making A Name In Michigan

Twitter

Throughout high school, Abbott was a standout pitcher and quarterback. Michigan was already aware of his greatness and it started to catch on in the professional baseball league.

As a result, the Toronto Blue Jays drafted Abbott in the 36th round of the 1985 MLB draft, but he did not sign. Instead, Abbott opted to head to the University of Michigan. There, he played baseball for three years, leading the team to two Big Ten championships.

After proving himself in college, Abbott got his chance once again in the pros. This time, the California Angels drafted Abbott 8th overall in 1988. Now, his unique pitching ability would be displayed on the world’s largest baseball stage. Abbott was determined not to disappoint the millions of curious fans.

A Glorious Climax

Instagram

“The no-hitter was the highlight of my career. The specialness of it, I didn’t know how lasting it would be when it happened.” Abbott wasn’t the only one on September 4, 1993, who felt the special energy at Yankee Stadium.

That day, Abbott’s undying efforts came to a glorious climax when he pitched a no-hitter against the Cleveland Indians. He describes the day as being akin to an out-of-body experience. “For a tiny second, you’re outside yourself.”

Having since retired, Abbott uses his story as a motivational tool in lectures around the country. So next time you think the world is against you and you’re up against defeat, think of Jim Abbott. He fought hard against a life of challenge, yet it wasn’t nearly enough to stop him from achieving greatness.

The post This MLB Star Dominated The Field, Despite Not Having A Hand appeared first on SportzBonanza.

In 2002, NFL linebacker Pat Tillman left his climactic career with the Arizona Cardinals to join the U.S. Army. What began as an inspirational show of patriotism ended in tragedy when Tillman was fatally shot in 2004. Today, Tillman’s legacy continues to live on due to his show of loyalty, dedication, and compassion to his country.

Finding His Footing In Arizona

Throughout his life, football always came naturally for Tillman—but it wasn’t until his college years that he reached new heights of talent. While at Arizona State University, Tillman dominated both on the field and in the classroom. In 1997, the linebacker helped his team reach an undefeated season and earn a trip to the 1997 Rose Bowl.

Later that year, he was selected as the Pac-10 Defensive Player of The Year and also as the ASU Most Valuable Player. On the academic side, Tillman earned honors such as the Clyde B. Smith Academic Award in 1996 and 1997, the Sporting News Honda Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 1997 and the Sun Angel Student of the Year in 1998.

The secret behind Tillman’s success? “Passion is kind of important to me,” he said, “whether it’s playing sports or whether it’s just living.” If you aren’t going to be passionate about something, then why do it?

The Arizona Cardinals saw this passion in the young Tillman, which led to them picking him in the 1998 NFL Draft.

Instagram

Leaving Success For A Better Cause

Following the tragic events surrounding 9/11, Tillman made a bold decision to put his burgeoning NFL career on hold and join the military. Tillman surprised the sports world with the announcement, turning down a $3.6 million contract with the Cardinals in the process.

In 2002, Tillman explained that “sports embodies many of the qualities I deem meaningful. However, these last few years, and especially after recent events, I’ve come to appreciate just how shallow and insignificant my role is… It’s no longer important.”

Joined by his brother Kevin, Pat enlisted after the 2001 NFL season. The two went through rigorous training to become U.S. Army Rangers and were assigned to the second battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment. Tillman served in several tours of duty, both in Operation Iraqi Freedom as well as Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

Instgram

Mournful Events Led To An Inspirational Legacy

On April 22, 2004, Pat Tillman was killed in action while on a mission in eastern Afghanistan. Initially, reports stated that Tillman’s death was the result of an enemy ambush in a canyon. In following weeks, though, many unanswered questions piqued government interest.

The Pentagon opened an investigation and continued to find more inaccuracies and contradictions surrounding the event. Eventually, it was ruled that Tillman’s death was the result of friendly fire after he was mistaken for an enemy soldier.

Tillman’s family wasn’t going to let that be his legacy, though.

In addition to receiving Purple Heart and Silver Star Medals from the military, Tillman’s number was retired by Arizona State University and the Arizona Cardinals. In May of 2010, Tillman was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

That same year, the NFL joined forces with the Pat Tillman Foundation to create the NFL-Tillman Scholarship. This honors an individual who “exemplifies Pat Tillman’s enduring legacy of service.”

Today, Tillman’s legacy stands as a motivational reminder—it’s best said in his own words: “Somewhere inside, we hear a voice. It leads us in the direction of the person we wish to become. But it is up to us whether or not to follow.”

Pat Tillman followed that voice and America is eternally grateful for it.

Instagram

The post From NFL Star To American Hero: The Inspirational Legacy Of Pat Tillman appeared first on SportzBonanza.