Jo Adell: Living in the Fifth Dimension of Sport

After reading "Rowing for the Lives" (America Magazine) and "How the Sports Stadium Went Luxe" (The New Yorker) my seniors in Sports and Spirituality my seniors in Sports and Spirituality were asked to answer the question: What are sports for? Is sport a pathway to meaning or a product to sell?

Upon reading these, they made convincing arguments on both sides. Some argued that athletics exist for the formation of character and the creation of opportunity for all. Others leaned toward a more public reality: today, sports are a business, and games are primarily a form of entertainment.

Both claims hold weight. But I wonder if they are incomplete. Because every so often, something happens in sport that doesn’t quite fit either category. It’s not reducible to character formation, and it’s not captured fully by entertainment value. It interrupts the game. It lingers. It feels—if only for a moment, like something more.

Angels outfielder Jo Adell added that kind of variable to our conversation—and it’s not just what he did, but how he did it.

According to Yahoo! sports, Adell "etched his name in the history books on Saturday night in Anaheim, robbing three home runs in a 1-0 win over the Mariners" 

This one man had three robberies. Check them out. for yourself: 

1. Top of the first, off the bat of Cal Raleigh.
2. Top of the eighth, off the bat of Josh Naylor.
3. Top of the ninth, off the bat of J.P. Crawford.

Kendall Baker writes,

There have been over 70,000 MLB games played in the wild card era (since 1995), and this was the first to feature three total home run robberies, much less three by the same player.  

While the first two robberies were spectacular in their own right, the third is the one everybody's talking about because this is where Adell ended up after making the grab… 

Adell's ninth-inning leap into the right field corner took him all the way over the fence into the stands. The Mariners challenged to see if it might still count as a home run, but the call was confirmed because he made the catch before falling out of play. That's in accordance with MLB's rules (page 148), but should it be? If you fail to keep the ball from going over the fence, did you really rob the home run? What do you think?"

What do I think? His spectacular defense is not simply about character formation, the cultivation of virtue, or creating community. Yes, Adell jerseys may increase and the Angels’ social media is lighting up—but something more is happening here. This moment resists our categories. It is more than an either/or proposition, and even more than a both/and.

Perhaps it is akin to the “fifth dimension” described in A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle.

In the novel, a tesseract allows a person to move from one place to another not by traveling the distance in between, but by folding space itself. What seems far apart suddenly touches. The impossible becomes immediate. But here’s the deeper truth: the characters cannot access this kind of movement through knowledge or power alone—it is love that makes the journey possible.

Adell’s performance feels something like that. In three separate moments, he collapses what should have been inevitable into something altogether different. He bends expectation. He interrupts outcome. He brings together what should not meet: the certainty of the ball leaving the park and the sudden, almost disorienting reality of an out recorded.

For a moment, the game is no longer just business or formation. It becomes something that pulls us out of the ordinary experience of sport and reminds us why we watch in the first place. Not just to be entertained, and not only to be formed, but to witness moments that feel, however briefly, like they transcend the limits of the game itself. And, it's so good, it's something I have to share. I told my Dad to watch it on YouTube. I texted it to my friend Anthony. I said to my friends Bob and Mike—long time Angels fans, "I hope one of you will wear an Adell jersey soon." Connection.

The San Francisco Giants hosted MLB's Opening Night on Wednesday March 25. Opening Day was two days later on Friday, March 27 (yes dividing them up is a shrewd business opportunity).For those students not at the ballpark, I shared this picture. 

St. Louis Cardinals player Nathan Church makes a spectacular leaping catch at the
wall to rob a home run during a game at Busch Stadium on March 26, 2026. 

I said how excited I was for a new season of baseball because it always brings promise and possibility. I told them that last year, I saw one of the greatest catches of all time. I hit play and shared Denzel' Clarke's amazing feat. I reminded them of the language of baseball. I said that's one incredible "web gem." And then I asked the question "What will this season bring?"

I wasn't sure what we saw last year could be outdone. Just when we think inspiration or amazement is in short supply, I'm proven wrong. This is what it means to live in the Fifth Dimension. This is what we love baseball, and basketball, a golf, and music and so much more.
A whole lot in this life is scripted, but Jo Adell reminded me—convincingly—that it's not nor should it be.

Photo Credits
Jo Adell
STL

Hello Friends—A Story and a Prayer

Perhaps you’ve seen the ads. The Masters—it’s coming. The indelible rite of spring is just over a month away. Jim Nantz calls it “a tradition unlike any other.” In the collective sense, that claim is absolutely true. But the tournament is also host to many traditions—small rituals that, in their own way, are unlike any others. And Nantz is responsible for one of them. It’s his simple opening line: “Hello, friends.”

The story of how that greeting came to be resurfaced this past week on the Vanity Index podcast, and I loved hearing it. Not only was the story new to me, but so was the way it unexpectedly found its way into my Lenten journey. Here are both stories.

Story:
As written by Yahoo sports

In 2002—seven years after his father suffered a mini stroke at Colonial that was later diagnosed as the early stages of Alzheimer’s—Jim Nantz found himself at his dad’s bedside before leaving for the PGA Championship at Hazeltine.

Before he walked out the door, he made a promise.

“When I come on the air, I’m going to look into that camera and I’m going to say, ‘Hello, friends.’ And that’s for you, dad, ’cause you have nothing but friends," Nantz said. "That’s going to be my little trigger line to let you know that in that very moment, I’m thinking of you.”

At the time, Nantz believed it would be a one-and-done—a private signal wrapped inside a public broadcast. A single moment shared between father and son.

But after the telecast, a colleague at CBS Sports, having learned the backstory, told him he should keep it. So Nantz opened the final round the same way.

He hasn’t stopped since.

I love this story for multiple reasons. 

For one, I love the greeting. It's simple but it's so personal. I truly feel as though I’ve been invited into something special—which I have. I get the sense that I’ll be spending the next few hours with a friend.

Second, one would not expect something so public to be so private. In sharing the story, Nantz described it as “a private signal wrapped inside a public broadcast.” Millions may be watching, but when the red light goes on, he intended to speak to all but one—his dad.

Third, I never met Nantz’s father, but I can’t help imagining what kind of man he must have been. To say he had “nothing but friends” suggests to me he was someone special — kind, generous, deeply attentive to others and more. It’s a simple phrase, but it carries weight.

Fourth, isn’t it ironic that it took a friend of Nantz’s to point out the power and poignancy of the greeting? Eli Spielman — a friend and co-author of "Always By My Side" with Jim Nantz— is the one who took pause and noticed. Had he not asked what "that phrase" was all about, we might not have that tradition with The Masters today. 

Fifth, the phrase "Hello Friends" is a personal ritual that serves as a point of connection for Jim and his late father. He says "it has a calming effect" and "I channel him." He added, "For a moment "I feel like I am talking to him." To me, that sounds a whole like prayer.

a recent photo of golf with great friends

Prayer
Prayer is our way of talking to God. It has a calming effect. And through prayer we can channel God—God's mercy and compassion. 

All relationships thrive on good communication. And prayer is our way of communicating with God — not as a transaction, not as a performance, but as a relationship.  It is how we show up. It is how we listen. It is how we make ourselves available to be changed. Just as trust grows when we speak honestly and listen attentively to one another, our relationship with God deepens when we take the time to pray—not just to ask, but to notice, to reflect, and to receive. In prayer, we are reminded that we are not alone, and that mercy and compassion are but a few of the gifts we are meant to carry into the world.

Yes it can be both public or private, formal or informal,  and it can be spoken or written. Though my prayer is often spontaneous, this Lent, I decided that I wanted to write a prayer a day. I figured this would be a meaningful personal discipline.

I was given a list of scripture passages that relate to sports. I wanted to see where this might lead me and I was curious to find out if this might be an exercise I could offer to my students in the future. 

The goal is to write an original prayer from the ideas that come to you in reading (and praying with) the passage of Scripture. I felt drawn to this method because it produces a tangible product. In order to write, I had to familiarize myself with the Word. To produce a prayer, I must open myself up to the message and let it speak to me.  My response is the prayer.

Given this practice, I have noticed that when I encounter a passage of scripture, I make a stronger effort to read what it says. My friend Kelly sent me a card that included a several Bible verses as well as this quote. 

The Lord comes to us in our friends. What we do and are to them is an expression of what we are to Him. —Lloyd John Ogilvie

Though religious in nature, you won't find Ogilvie's words in the Bible. I decided that wasn't the point of this Lenten commitment. The commitment to prayer was and is.

In my writing my prayer that night, I couldn't help but think of Jim Nantz's story and how many friends I have made through golf. I have so many friends with whom I have watched
"the tradition unlike any other." Among others, it is one of my favorite topics of conversations. I thought about my own parents and their friends. I have seen how the Lord has come to all of us through these men and women. What more is there to do but give thanks and praise for this gift. So here is what I wrote...

As a coach, I always hope my players will become good friends.

Prayer for Friends
Gracious and Ever Loving God,

It is an awesome and challenging truth that You come to us in our friends.
In their laughter and loyalty, in their wounds and their wonder —You are there.

Help us to remember that what we do and are for them is an expression of what we are to You.
When we are patient, may it be patience offered to You.
When we listen, may it be You we are honoring.
When we forgive, may it reveal Your mercy.
And when we fail —call us back to love and to think like You.

Thank you for the gift of our friends—both the new and the old, those from our childhood and those who walk with us for a lifetime. 
Amen

Post World Series Petty Party: Baseball Fans are Invited

I'm hosting a party. Giants and Blue Jays fans are welcome. Phillies fans? please join us. What's the occasion? Is there are theme? At what time will it end? And what should I wear?! If you're a Dodger fan you're not invited. Here's why.

When Blue Jay's catcher, Alejandro Kirk. hit into a double play for the final two outs of the 2025 World Series, I got up in disgust and walked out of my parents' family room. The Dodgers came from behind to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 5-4 in 11 innings. In that moment I was debating who I hate more: Dodgers or USC Trojans. Regardless, my disdain doesn't change the outcome. The text messages started pouring in. Why? I was hosting a petty party. 

In one conversation I stated "I'm so mad at the Blue Jays right now. They couldn't get it done, and now we live with the outcome." My friend responded "I can't." No further words were necessary. 

To another I said "Thank God I didn't bet on the Jays, I would be losing my mind right now." to which my friend said "it's impossible to bet against the Dodgers. They're animals." I asked him to leave the party. 

I found a way to swallow my bitterness and I congratulated my friend Scott, the biggest Dodger fan I know—and yes, we are real friends. Ever gracious, he did not gloat. He did however quote Fox Sports announcer, Alex Rodriguez who said, "you can make the argument that Toronto played better in every way. But the Dodgers found a way to win." This prompted me to respond. "I never believe what A-Rod has to say." At this point, my petty party was raging.

Before Game 7, the theme was "Beat LA" And a t-shirt with that logo was fitting attire. Now, it's nothing with Dodger Blue. We won't play Randy Newman's "I Love L.A." either. The petty party will carry into next season, as the Giants battle it out for the NL West. And as petty as this petty party sounds (and is) there's one problem with it: for baseball and sports fans, this October classic featured great baseball. And for that, I must thank not only the Toronto Blue Jays but yes. the Los Angeles Dodgers (there, I said it).

I realized this early in the series. On Monday, October 27, I went to bed after 13 innings of baseball. I woke up exhausted from too little sleep. After my alarm went off, I rolled over and hit refresh on Safari. The score changed from 5‑5, Blue Jays vs. Dodgers, to 5‑6: Dodgers win. I zoomed in to see the box score. Eighteen innings?! I have no dog in this fight, and yet that was the first thing I wanted to know.

I have not become a Canadian baseball fan; I do root against the most things LA. I can't say what Governor Newsom said in his friendly bet with the Premiere of Ontario. Ever. So what gives? Why watch a game that I have little to no investment in? Fortunately local sports talk radio host, Brian Murphy gave me an answer. He said "we hate the Dodgers here on KNBR, but we love great baseball." That's what we saw. Yahoo Sports offered this summary:

The Dodgers outlasted the Blue Jays, 6-5, in an 18-inning marathon that was tied for the longest game in World Series history (by innings). When the dust finally settled, 609 pitches had been thrown by 19 different pitchers, 37 runners had been left on base, 25 position players had been used, and nearly seven hours had passed (6:39).

The hero: Reigning World Series MVP Freddie Freeman hit a walk-off solo blast to make him the first player in history with multiple World Series walk-off home runs. And he did it in back-to-back years.

Multiple friends texted me about what we were all witnessing during that game (and others). Even my students took notice. One senior stopped by my office to ask if I’d watched the game; another admitted he hadn’t done his homework because he couldn’t stop watching. I took an informal poll in class: “Raise your hand if you watched last night’s game.” Half the class did. Then I asked, “Who stayed up until the end?” I wasn’t prepared to see a critical mass of hands in the air. 

From 2010 to 2015, it was very easy to speak baseball in Sports and Spirituality class. In recent years, that conversation hasn't gotten much traction. However, last nights Sports Equinox contest weighed in and had me believing what I read is true. David Long of Yahoo Sports writes

Baseball is booming: MLB's total attendance this season (71.4 million fans) increased for the third consecutive year, which hadn't happened since 2005-07. That growing popularity could be seen over the airwaves and other digital channels, too. 

Viewership: Postseason games drew an average of 4.33 million viewers through the Division Series, a 30% increase over last year and the highest in 15 years. Similar high-water marks were seen during the regular season, where TBS (highest viewership since 2011), ESPN (2013) and Fox (2022) all drew big numbers, too.

Streaming: A record 19.39 billion minutes were watched on MLB.TV, which saw seven of its 10 most-watched games ever take place this year.

Digital: MLB's social media pages garnered a record 17.8 billion views this year and the MLB app had its most-trafficked season ever.

Concerned that betting is a primary factor for increased interest, he speaks to what's driving this: 

A variety of factors are at play, but the discussion has to begin with the implementation of the pitch clock, which may go down as one of the best decisions in MLB history.

Games, which used to routinely last well over three hours, averaged just 2:38 this season — the third year in a row under 2:40 since the pitch clock arrived in 2023. Just three 9-inning games this season lasted longer than 3:30. In 2021, there were 391 such games.

The impact of this cannot be overstated. Fans at home can watch games without it taking over their entire evening, and fans going to the ballpark can reasonably expect to be home before 10pm most nights — a pipe dream in the not-so distant past.

Other new rules like larger bases, limiting pickoffs and banning the shift have also led to more steals, more balls in play and a generally more exciting game. It's not rocket science: A better product with a smaller time commitment has yielded a surge in popularity.

Then there's the star power: The sport's two best players — one of whom is an international superstar — playing in the league's two biggest markets is a boon of epic proportions. And Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani aren't just MLB's current best players; they've spent the last few years carving out their places as all-time greats.

The big picture: Baseball's boom seems to be having a trickle-down effect, with youth participation up to a record 8.49 million. Plus, the last three College World Series were the most-watched since 2011.

It may sound odd, but I read this information and I felt joy. I love baseball and I want the game to grow. I love the feeling of watching a great game and sharing that excitement with others. To me, rivalry is revelry. I enjoy the struggle and the strife, facing the enemy and rooting against him. I love it when my team succeeds—it's as if all of San Francisco lights up. Each season spawns a new narrative—never easy, never predictable, exciting and heartbreaking. Some end in a parade others in a pity party.

In the end, my petty party isn’t really about the Dodgers—it’s about devotion. To care this much is to risk disappointment; it’s also to be fully alive in the company of others who care too. That’s the strange grace of fandom. The rivalry fuels our passion, but the game itself restores our faith—in competition, in community, in the beauty of the long season. Baseball gives us something to root for, to rally against, and to remember. And if that means I’m still mad at the Dodgers come spring training, so be it. Hope—and maybe even humility—will show up again on Opening Day. And if I'm at Oracle for that game, I'll be in my Beat L.A. t-shirt. Go Giants!

Photo Credits
Beat LA
Hug
Roberts
Freeman
Max

Reminding and Inviting Players to Pray for Coaches

Prayer is a priority in Sports and Spirituality. I am always considering best practices around teaching It. On a regular basis I re-examine how to pray, why it matters, and who we pray for. It’s a task that is both challenging and exciting, rewarding and revelatory. 

Prayer is our effort to reach out to God, and I continue to be amazed at the many ways God reaches us—quietly, kindly, and lovingly. There is always a surprise, and this week was no exception: an insight came from an unexpected person in an unexpected place. A comment from sports pundit Stephen A. Smith—about Arizona Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon striking one of his players—led me to genuine, searching questions about prayer. God continues to write straight on crooked lines. Here’s the story.

The bell rings, students are in their desk and before I reach the agenda, we have time for prayer and a sports thought of the day. I hope this daily ritual offers students a sacred pause—a meaningful moment in their day. For the first three weeks, I lead and model different forms of prayer, introducing a variety of styles and practices that students might later choose to use when it’s their turn to lead.

I resist the idea of “evaluating” prayer; instead, I see my role as guiding and supporting students in this shared practice. Each semester, I look for ways to deepen and improve the experience—for them and for our community as a whole. At times the responsibility of leading prayer can be uncomfortable and impersonal. On other occasions it is beautiful, joyful and inspiring. It is always dynamic— a privilege, an opportunity, and an invitation to encounter the Lord.

An important part of leading prayer is talking about prayer and why its important. Our text book "On the Eighth Day: A Catholic Theology of Sport" speaks of prayer as an important routine and ritual for coaches and athletes. 

Prayer is more than simply asking God for things. According to Ward, prayer is an open stance to and experience of God. It is an act of faith, where one maintains a fundamental disposition of reception because “God gives continually, without abatement.” Instead of being concerned with whether God will give the gift we ask for, a more authentic stance focuses on opening ourselves to God by asking for assistance. At a fundamental level, humans have been gifted with life from the Creator; in prayer, we are willing to receive other gifts as a sign of our acceptance of this original gift.

I love the framing of prayer as a stance—ideally an open one! 

The text also takes on the question of praying for the win. We discussed why we do this, even when we know we ought to pray not for the outcome of a game, but rather that we play our best, stay healthy and have fun.

I asked students to reflect on their own experiences of praying with their teammates and coaches. I asked them if they think their coaches pray for them. I don't think they had ever considered this question before. I didn't get a lot of responses so I asked my class, "Do you pray for your coaches?" Again, silence. I followed up with another question. I asked, "Why do you think it might be important that you do pray for them?"

Rather than return to the notion of alignment or a disposition of reception, I said "well the events in Arizona with Coach Jonathan Gannon certainly speak to why you might." While a few students knew the reference, most did not. I said "this is a good reason for ChatGPT, but I can explain this fairly quickly."

During a game against the Tennessee Titans,Cardinals WR Demercado appeared to drop the football before crossing the goal line on what would have been a 72-yard touchdown. The play was ruled a fumble/touchback instead. This proved to be a costly error in a game the Cardinals ultimately lost 22-21. 

It's hard to understand how Demercado let this happen. I can't and won't answer that. However, for the purpose of this post, it's important to know that in response to what occurred, Gannon went onto the sideline, confronted Demercado, and made physical contact (a swing at his arm) during the confrontation. He snapped in a big way. In short, he hit his own player. 

The next day, Gannon apologized in a team meeting and in a press conference. He admitted that he “let the moment get the better of me,” and said the behavior did not reflect who he wants to be as a leader. 

The Cardinals internal review led them to fine Gannon $100,000. The NFL decided not to impose any additional discipline. 

Demercado accepted responsibility for his mistake, stating there was “no excuse” for letting go of the ball. 

Although football is an emotional game and a physical one—confrontation in this way is not acceptable or to be tolerated. It is also rare. 

Sports talk radio and TV were asked their opinion on this event. I personally heard Stephen A. Smith's take. He made it VERY clear that Coach Gannon was wrong in taking physical action. Very clear. But he noted, this speaks to the pressure that these coaches are under. You lose but three games and you are fired. I asked my students if they think their coaches feel pressure to win. They nodded in understanding. I said "pray for them." They got it. We got it. I get it. 

Through prayer, I learn more about my students and about God and even myself. And this past week, I came to realize that it's important to remind one another to pray, to pray for each other and to know that others are praying for us. Through prayer, God can help us grow in love, empathy and compassion. Prayer, after all, is a privilege, an opportunity, and an invitation to encounter the Lord.

There is much more to write about prayer...

1. Why I have shied away from asking students for petitions (sad)
2. What my students have learned through our study of the Supreme Court Case of Kennedy vs. Bremerton (2022). 
3. One best practice in prayer: A.C.T.S (learned a lot through this one!)
   
4. Why we continue to pray for the win. Go Irish ;-) 
5. Why there's no better goal than helping students to pray and yet, why it's so tough.

Photo Credits

The Sacrament of Confirmation: You'll Never Walk Alone

It's Confirmation season in the Catholic Church. As the third and final sacrament of initiation, Confirmation strengthens and deepens the grace received at Baptism. It seals the person with the gift of the Holy Spirit, empowering them to live as adults in the Church who are called to witness to Christ. It is not meant to be a Catholic "Bar/Bat Mitzvah." Other think of it as Catholic graduation. It need not be relegated to a second class sacrament. Perhaps Sports and Spirituality can help. 

It makes sense to me that the word Confirmation means “to strengthen” or “to make firm.” Receiving this sacrament requires personal preparation through prayer, study and reflection. Athletes are not strangers to a regime of strength training, self discipline, and teamwork. In Confirmation, a young person confirms their intention to live as a mature member of the Church. The training or this important sacrament are designed to help them take that step with faith and confidence.

I had the opportunity to witness this firsthand when I met with the eighth graders at Notre Dame des Victoires in San Francisco during their Confirmation retreat. To share a small, but important part of their journey was an honor and a privilege. And what stood out to be about this retreat is that it  included both Confirmands and sponsor. In my opening remarks, I acknowledged that special component of the retreat. I said, "As they sing in Liverpool You'll Never Walk Alone." I got smiles from all of the soccer fans in attendance.

In Baptism, a child is given God parents. In Confirmation the confirmands choose a sponsor—a spiritual mentor who can help them grow in their relationship with God and live out their Catholic faith more fully. Practically speaking, sponsors  stand as witnesses during the Confirmation ceremony, publicly affirming their commitment to support the confirmands. Ideally, their role doesn’t end with the ceremony. A sponsor is encouraged to extend guidance, encouragement, and prayer as they continue their journey in faith. I think we can all use a good sponsor! 

Many of the sponsors on the retreat were extended family members—aunts, uncles and cousins. Some were the parents of the confirmand's friends. A few were even former teachers and neighbors. Each one in attendance was there to listen and learn, lead, guide and offer an assist when necessary. I had both parties interview one another (email me if you want the questions). They trusted the process. That time together was a win.

But, I also wanted to be realistic about the role of a sponsor. I thought of a quote from the legendary, late St. Ignatius High School football coach—Vince Tringali. When asked, "What do you get out of coaching?" he said: 

What you get from coaching is a relationship. And for some it only lasts a season. Still others, ask or need more of you and it extends beyond. And with some, the relationship lasts a lifetime. One that does not end in even with this life.

His words have forever resonated with me. Today I saw a photo taken from graduation day eight years ago: it features me and one of my golfers, Rachel. I attended her brother's funeral last April. I hope to play golf with her this summer. She is often in my prayer, that is but one relationship that has extended far beyond one golf season.

I think too of countless other runners, rowers and golfers who I have coached in the past. Among the majority, our relationship lasted but a singular season. Those relationships are invaluable. I learned about them and about myself in our time together.

I think this is an appropriate analogy for the role and expectation of a Confirmation Sponsor. The fruit of this shared sacred journey is a relationship. For some it may only be during the preparation and training for the sacrament. Among others, it might be one that lives long. Regardless of its tenure, I hope both Confirmand and sponsor will always pray for one another. 

Before the retreat, I thought back to my own sponsor, Diane Woods. She was our neighbor, a member of our parish and one of the most loving, warm, lively and kind women I knew. I was so excited to ask her to accompany me on my journey. When I showed the photo you see on this blog (the top one) from my Confirmation day at St. John Vianney Church, all I see is how she is looking on with great love, warmth and affection. (N.B. what is also special about this photo is that in the background stands a friend from both grade school and high school, Brian. His son attends the school where I teach!). Diane and her husband moved back to the East coast when I was in college. We lost touch over the years but I remain grateful for the seasons we shared.

With Susan at the wedding of the son of our good friend!

I have been a sponsor twice—for my dear friend Susan and my God daughter, Grace. I am but one year older than Susan but I feel a blessed kinship with her to this day for having had the privilege of being her sponsor. I should let her know, I pray for her regularly. Prayers of gratitude for her friendship, our memories, her kindness, love of her family and friends and for her faith. She asks great questions about it. Tough questions. I have always enjoyed the opportunity to think, discuss and unpack these matters with her. When my niece Grace asked me to be her sponsor, I wasn't sure if I should concede as I am already part of her faith journey. But, I realized she asked me to step up and stand in as her sponsor. How many times in life do we get to accompany those we love in such a special way?! Through both Susan and Grace, my faith was strengthened and made firm. I hope I was able to give both the sponsors and Confirmands in the room a sense of the gift of preparing for Confirmation can and will bring.

Between the grace of the sacrament, the sponsor and the Spirit, Confirmation is a worthy endeavor—training, toil and time and all! What a blessing to know "You'll Never Walk Alone." 

A fitting prayer to offer on the Feast of Pentecost, Ascension Sunday, for Confirmands and their sponsors.

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
And kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you will renew the face of the earth.
O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit.
Did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit.
We may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord, Amen. 

Photo Credits
Liverpool United

Sports and Spirituality Welcomes Pope Leo XIV

No doubt, the celebration of Mother's Day bumped mass attendance, but I had to wonder: Were more people in the pews because we have a new Pope—an American one! My pastor's opening remarks focused on our extraordinary week for our Church as we named the 267th successor of Saint Peter. Welcome Pope Leo XIV!

Given that we live in a great information age—with facts and findings literally at our fingertips, it wasn't just Catholics eager to learn more about the new religious leader in the Vatican. Folks from Chicago, Villanova alumni,  those in attendance at Augustinian institutions, lapsed Catholics, C&E Catholics, White Sox fans and more want to know more about Robert Francis Pervost. So much has been written and more is to be determined but it's high time that Sports and Spirituality weighed in. I wanted to share but a few thoughts.

It's never who or what you expect.
When people asked me—or the other theology teachers I work with—who we thought would be named the next pope, most of us gave the same answer: “It’s never who you expect.” Though I shared my own preferences and suspicions, the truth is, I ultimately leaned on that same belief: It’s never who you expect." Why is so hard to live by our very own words?

The night of the first official voting at the Conclave—black smoke—I received a group text from three Catholic friends. It said "Okay guys, are we getting an American Pope? Black smoke tomorrow or will one be chosen?" My response? "Zero chance of an American pope. Not sure how long it will take this group. Always interesting." Less than 24 hours later, a colleague came by my classroom to share there was white smoke at the Vatican. I heard rumblings from another teacher that they chose an American Pope. I actually said out loud, "Dan doesn't know what he is talking about." 

Turns out Dan DID know what he was talking about—a man born and raised in the United States was elected to the Holy See. Turns out I too knew what I was talking about—it's never someone you expect (this is certainly true with Francis and John Paul I and John Paul I. Benedict was a known entity). I said those words and yet I struggled to believe what I had professed as true. Very human. 

Habemus papam
At the beginning of the next class period, the Assistant Principal for Mission came on the P.A. with an announcement. A Latin scholar—a junior named Alex— had his moment in the sun as he read the official announcement out of the Vatican that was read by to the waiting crowds by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti. Alex repeated what he said.

Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum;
habemus papam:


Eminentissimum ac reverendissimum Dominum Robertum Franciscum

Sanctae Romane Ecclesiae Cardinalem Prevost qui sibi nomen imposuit Leo XIV  

Or in English,  

I announce to you a great joy;
we have a pope: The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord Robert Francis Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church Prevost who has taken the name Leo XIV

My students heard the news delivered with joy and enthusiasm and they clapped. It was awesome. I work at a Jesuit high school and when Jorge Mario Bergolio, S.J. was named Pope, the faculty we all were excited, but not like this. This moment in world history—naming an American to the papacy was not lost on young people. It is something I will not forget.

Don't Stop Believin'
Within minutes, friends and family were sharing fun facts, memes and anecdotes about the new Pope. Out of the gate, a news article declared Pope Leo XIV to be a Cubs fan. Having heard he was from the South side, I was skeptical of this news. I thought to myself "Where's the evidence?" I also thought given the class issues that often characterize the fans from the North side (Cubs territory) to those in the South (Sox nation), if this allegiance were true—there must be a good reason. People are free to follow who they want, but in a city like Chicago, there's some explaining to do. 

Pope Leo's brother weighed in and settled the score and I can't help but smile. Not because it's utterly remarkable that we have TV footage of him at the 2005 World Series, but because of the theme song that characterized that White Sox team: Don't Stop Believin'. 

As written in my post The Balm of Sports, "In 2005, this team did the impossible. They remained in first place from Opening Day until they defeated the Houston Astros to win the World Series title. It had been 88 years since the franchise last clinched a championship (their third). The 2010 San Francisco Giants hold Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" as the unofficial theme song of our city's first World Series championship, but the credit should go to that 2005 crew."

Believe. Have Faith. What a perfect message for a team and for a moral leader, like the Pope to say. I think my friend Courtney's brother, Josh would like Pope Leo XIV—and not just because of his allegiance to the ChiSox (his story is captured in the aforementioned blog post).

Civilization of Love / Culture of Encounter
As word of Leo's sports fandom spread, it became a cultural phenomenon, birthing a million memes and his own signature Topps card. Kendall Baker of Yahoo Sports writes, "His election even moved betting markets: In the 24 hours after Prevost was elected, Villanova had the most bets to win the 2026 men's basketball title and received more action than all other teams combined.

The pope is also a hoophead: One longtime friend said they used to watch Bulls games together and discuss Villanova basketball, and old tweets showed Prevost cheering on the Wildcats."

But he isn't just a sports fan, "while living in Rome, he played tennis here weekly,” Father Joseph Farrell, the American prior general of the Order of St. Augustine, said. “He realizes just how important staying in good physical shape is. He certainly plays tennis for the joy of the game, to keep up with the game, but also for stress relief!”

While I certainly celebrate his love for sports, it is VERY short-sighted to recognize this Pope as the only one with a sports connection. John Paul II was an avid sportsman—a skier and a hiker. He loved the outdoors and in his writings, he saw sport as one of the crucial signs of the times, a "cultural mediator," uniquely "capable of interpreting contemporary man's hopes and needs." He said "Sports in fact can make an effective contribution to peaceful understanding between peoples and to establishing the new civilization of love." (On the Eighth Day).

Pope Francis only furthered this teaching with his own vision of the culture of encounter. He declared "to speak of a culture of encounter means we, as a people, should be passionate about meeting others, seeking points of contact, building bridges, planning a project that includes everyone." Pope Francis believed that soccer could do this. Given it's popularity, it's quite possible that Pope Francis' message might have even been more accessible to people world wide. 

Building from prior papal teachings and his own love of sport, I have to wonder, what's next? What might Pope Leo XIV teach us all about sports and spirituality in the years to come. I can't wait.

One addendum. In this week's department meeting a colleague said "I'm so glad that Pope Leo is from Villanova and not Notre Dame." Without blinking an eye, I said "I totally agree. We are already a lot. To have the Holy Father as an alum would just be too much... I'm so happy for Nova. They are tearing it up in the NBA and now the Vatican."

Truly, we've been given hope and a sign that the Holy Spirit continues to work in our world. In the first words of Pope Leo XIV, "Peace be with you." 

Photo Credits
Topps Card
Comiskey

Friendship as a Contributing Factor to Rory McIlroy's Masters Championship

The conclusion of the 2025 Masters for Rory McIlroy was historic, impressive, and incredibly emotional. We witnessed him best Justin Rose by sinking a clutch birdie in sudden death. The tears McIlroy finally released after years of near-misses and disappointment resonated with viewers worldwide. I smiled watching the tender embrace with his wife and the long, loving hug he shared with his daughter Poppy. But one additional moment made me pause and take notice: on his way to Butler Cabin, McIlroy encountered Shane Lowry, and their exchange radiated the joy, beauty, and love of true friendship. In fact, I believe this friendship might have been a crucial element in McIlroy's first major victory in eleven years and his first green jacket—a fitting shade among Ireland's legendary forty shades of green.

Rory and Shane have been professional golfers for a collective 34 years (Rory in 2007 and Shane in 2009). As written by Golf.com "Lowry and McIlroy's relationship was forged more than two decades ago on Ireland's junior golf circuit. McIlroy's star ascended faster, but Lowry, a dogged competitor, worked hard to keep up. As elite professionals, they've traveled the world together and battled as teammates in international team events." They are much more that competitors on the tour. They share a common homeland, stateside residence (Jupiter, FL) and connection. As mentioned in "Full Swing" Lowry said, "I feel like I'm good for him, but he's also really good for me." I didn't need to see their shared moment at the Masters to admit they do. Plenty has transpired in the past year to reveal that truth.

In addition to a shared victory in the 2023 Ryder Cup (Europe over US 16½-11½), the Irish duo won the 2024 Zurich Classic in New Orleans. As written in the PGA.com post, 

To win any PGA TOUR event is very cool, but to do it with one of your closest friends — we’ve known each other for a long, long time, probably like over 20 years,” McIlroy said. “To think about where we met and where we’ve come from, to be on this stage and do this together — really, really cool journey that we’ve been a part of.

Evidently, the night before the final round the Irishmen received a standing ovation when they "showed up at historic, creole French Quarter restaurant Arnaud’s on the eve of their final round at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans team event." And, you might have caught sight of the two of them the night of their victory as they showed up on stage at the tournament's after party to karaoke and sing Don't Stop Believin' with their fans. I swear I saw a performance of "Sweet Caroline" as well, but I can't seem to find it.

Shane said, “He’s getting old, but he still moves the needle a little bit,” Lowry joked as McIlroy chuckled. “Rory brings a crowd and people love him and we’ve gotten a lot of love in New Orleans. We’ve had just the best week.” 

Safe to say, these two enjoyed another good week in February 2025at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The Guardian reports, 

Rory McIlroy celebrated a hole-in-one on his way to a score of 66 in the opening round at California’s Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The 35-year-old Northern Irishman found the cup with a sand wedge on the par-three 15th hole at Spyglass Hill Golf Course and will now head into Friday’s second round two shots behind leader Russell Henley.

McIlroy’s was not the day’s only hole-in-one. Irishman Shane Lowry landed one of his own on the famous par-three seventh at Pebble Beach, with the ball landing short of the pin and rolling in. Lowry used social media site X to call it the “shot of my dreams."

The two found their way to the iconic tap room that evening where everyone in house was treated to a beverage of their choice by the Irishmen. #jealous!

In these instances, I see much of what Shasta Nelson—author, speaker and relationship expert names as the three relationship requirements in a healthy, close friendship. To illustrate the metric, she draws an equilateral triangle—with positivity at its base. Consistency and vulnerability come together at the apex. This is how she defines each side.

Positivity: The pleasant emotions we feel that makes the relationship rewarding and satisfying.
Enjoyable moments that characterize positivity include: love, trust, enjoyment, affection, enthusiasm, appreciation, silliness/fun, special, validation, happiness, excitement and hope.

Consistency: The repetition of time and behavior that makes the relationship feel reliable and safe.

Repetitive time together involves providing time and space, finding "excuses" to gather, showing the other the relationship is important to you, and so forth.

Vulnerability: The mutual sharing and listening that leaves both people feeling known and seen.

Understood as expressing the full spectrum of emotions from pride and joy to loss and failure. Can also be known though asking for help, apologizing, forgiving as well as initiating tough or challenging conversations. Vulnerability gives permission to be authentic. 

The Netflix golf reality series Full Swing, Season 3, Episode 2 entitle "Through Thick and Thin" demonstrates how Rory and Shane share a healthy and viable friendship. Rory admits, 

The tour can be a lonely place at times so to have a friend like Shane, who is always up for a laugh and always wants to do fun things—this year, more than any other year has really shown its importance to me 

I'd say the weeks that we are home, we probably see each other five times a week?! It's nice to have someone like that, to who you can pick up the phone and chat about anything—whether its about golf or stuff going on away from golf...

That's positivity, consistency and vulnerability in Full Swing ;-)

Shane added, "We've known each other probably 21 or 22 years. When you're Rory McIlroy who is the greatest player of our generation, people are not themselves around you. So you meet people and you hang out with people and they are not themselves. But, when I hang out with him, I'm just myself. I think I'm probably a breath of fresh air to his life at times where he can just get away and be himself and be normal..."

Shasta Nelson would describe Lowry and McIlroy as "relationally fit."

It was a joy to watch the Lowrys and McIlroys share the green at The Masters Par-3 contest. And hard not to love the way Shane's daughter picked up Poppy to congratulate her for putting out the hole. Perhaps all of this put Rory is a calm, clear headed state of mind for what was one of the more memorable Sunday at the Masters. The power of friendship is not to be underestimated. 

Photo Credits
Family
Talking
Video
Holding a trophy

What to Watch: Here Come the Irish

Although we have entered into 55 straight days of football, Notre Dame fans have a two week drought. With a bye for the October 5 weekend, I found myself with a free Saturday—a fall day full of opportunities and at minimum four hours—usually accounted for by the Irish. However, as true fans know, that freedom also creates a void. Looking to mind the gap, I found an answer in Here Come the Irish. It scratched the itch, offering new talking points and input on both sports and spirituality. 

"Here Come the Irish" is a seven-episode Peacock Original docuseries that follows the legendary Fighting Irish football team as they make their way through the 2024 college football season. In their marketing genius, only the first two episodes are available before the season. This means that a loyal Irish patron will keep the subscription throughout the season and after. And I will.

Episode One: Choose Hard begins with a wonderful example of the symbiosis of Sport and Spirituality. The season has yet to begin and so does this particular day. The silence that surrounds Notre Dame stadium is interrupted by the rhythm of Cicadas, hidden from sight, nestled in the trees on the Library Quad. 

The distinctive voice of Marcus Freeman speaks to something so spiritual. He says

I try to get my workouts in the morning. Sometimes I will run, sometimes I will walk—depending on what day it is, but I love it empty. I love being here and reflecting on the work that has to get done. You look for a place where you can get a bit of solitude. This is holy ground, man. What better place that being in the stadium at this time in the morning.

Few Fightin' Irish fans would disagree. It is holy ground. While we don't have that opportunity to get inside the stadium, alone, early in the morning to find the time and space to reflect, pray meditate AND exercise, I'm glad we have a coach that can and does.

My sense is this spiritual practice is what prompts Coach Free to give inspiring, important messages. Moreover it yields an authenticity that gets his players and fans to actually believe him. In his opening speech, he proclaims the goal for the preseason. He says, "our focus as a football team, as a football program—as players, coaches and staff— is to chase the best version of you. Don't worry about anything else. If we can get 100+ people in the Notre Dame football program to be the best version of themselves—then watch out! That's called reaching your full potential."

The program flashes iconic images and popular rhetoric—tradition, legendary players and coaches, values and principles, the personal and team goals. It captures who we are and who we want to be. Coach Holtz himself says, “for those who know Notre Dame, no explanation’s necessary. Those who don’t, no explanation will suffice.” That is the spirituality of Notre Dame football. 

In 2024, the program is led by a man who is telling his athletes to undertake an endeavor that is truly countercultural: Choose Hard. I would argue that true Christianity asks the same. 

Football and other sports might be one of the few arenas where we welcome the invitation and opportunity to take on challenges and face difficulty head on. Athletics demands that we do this to grow, succeed and win. We do it alone and with others, guided by leaders—many who are good and some who are not. And still, we carry on, endure and persevere. 

Coach Freeman isn't the only person who has ever said this. I should think in his own life and as a Catholic, he has listened to many voices. I hope on those early morning runs, inside Notre Dame Stadium—a beautiful one is that of Our Lady, Notre Dame. She speaks to us all...it's just that at a place like ND we have lots of reminders to listen to her...and her Son.

Photo Credits
Here come the Irish
Coach Free
#Peacock

God's Favorite Basketball Player: Stephen Curry

Wardell Stephen Curry, Jr. has been a professional basketball player since 2012. After he appeared on the cover of Golf Digest for the second time, I thought to myself, Steph is the most interesting man in the world. He is four-time NBA champion AND he makes headlines in the game of golf. In the Summer of 2023, he caught attention in golf because he not only hit an ace on hole seven, he actually won the American Century Golf Championship at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe with a walk-off eagle. The June 2024 issue of the Golf Digest magazine promoted Steph's Underrated Tour and his "potential to make golf more closely resemble the makeup of our society." 

Stephen Curry is many things—a father of four, devoted husband, ten-time NBA All-Star, and now an Olympic Gold medalist. He a philanthropist a media super star and a local hero.and... he's "God's favorite basketball player," too. We could spend a lot of time discussing why that title is well deserved, but I'd like to share why God made a good choice.

Stephen Colbert, a Catholic Christian host of his own late night show caught up with Steph on his recent visit to New York. Curry was in town for the release of his book and his annual Underrated Gold Curry Cup tournament for underprivileged and underrepresented junior golfers. He also made his way to Wall Street where he rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. I wouldn't be surprised if the Dow reached an all time high that day.

Colbert's enthusiasm and excitement to host the two time MVP was effusive. Although it had been ten years since Steph was last on the show, Colbert made it quite clear he was a welcome and worthy guest. 

After getting a glimpse of the gold medal and recalling his performance in the semi-finals against Serbia and the finals against France—yes, the audience chanted "USA! USA!?"...I joined in—Colbert changed the topic. He said, "your Instagram bio says Philippians 4:13. I'm curious to know what that verse is— from the Letters of Saint Paul—and what it means to you."

I'll let Steph speak for himself. I urge you to watch the video here.

Loyal fans will have seen that passage listed on Curry's X profile and Instagram bio. He writes the first half of the verse: I can do all things on every pair of Under Armour shoes. To hear him explain why—he said, "that's my source of strength, determination and purpose and for me I get that strength through Christ" is quite powerful.

This personal ritual began after his mom, Sonya Curry offered him words of encouragement, via text before his first practice at Davidson. He said, "Her favorite verse is Roman 8:28. She said I needed to pick a verse that he could go to in times of need or inspiration."  In the same way that countless fans now know what "I can do all things" speaks to, I looked up what Romans 8:28 reveals: "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose." Known for her Fierce Love, this passage is as beautiful as Sonya is. 

This interview balances what is personal, playful and powerful so well. For example, Colbert raises a question that many people ask but seldom answer. He says "I know many times athletes with a deep faith  give their victories up to God. Do you think God picks winners and games?" All parlays aside, Steph responds by sharing a laugh, a joke and the admission, "If I can lead you to Him through shooting hoops, that's what it's about." Amen.

If God plays favorites among basketball players, God made a great choice with Steph. Why? We are told creation is a reflection of the Creator. In Steph, I see graciousness, dedication, loyalty and promise. He is a great teammate on and off the court. He has been broken and been rebuilt. He brings joy and gives joy. His foundation, "Eat. Learn. Play.—which has raised more than $52 million for meals, books, schools and playgrounds in the Oakland area" is a wonderful charitable organization. It's hard not to be led to God through his life, story and example. 

I still hold in my heart the moment when he broke down in tears upon winning the 2022 NBA Championship. He is human and in his own way, he is holy. How? Because Steph is unapologetically himself. He is "Fearfully, wonderfully made." Perhaps that's a passage that I'll keep and hold onto: Psalm 139.

I encourage you to read Stephen Curry wants to make golf blacker and browner, and raise his game, by Max Adler. It might just speak to the words of the Prophet Jeremiah. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Stay tuned.

Photo Credits
Golf Digest
God's Favorite
Shoes