The CatholicSportsMan Show Podcast

Rich Gannon is our guest on this episode. He is a devoted husband and father. Rich's career includes playing for the NFL as a quarterback for 17 seasons, most notably for the Oakland Raiders. He led the Raiders to the Superbowl for the 2002 season. Rich went to the Pro-Bowl four times and was the Most Valuable Player in 2002. Following his playing days, Rich moved to the booth and excelled as a broadcaster for “NFL on CBS” for 17 seasons. He is happily still around football, broadcasting on SiriusXM NFL Radio. Since football and broadcasting has dominated Rich's life, he was asked how he finds time for God and family. Rich quickly replied, “If something is important to you, you'll find time for it.” Rich attributes his success to his Catholic upbringing in a large, devoted family. Rich talks about how his faith had a positive impact in his personal and professional life. In the NFL, Rich was happy to find faith throughout the organization. With his success and accolades, Rich's faith keeps him grounded. He is excited about the recent election of Pope Leo XIV and hopes this event invigorates the Church, especially young people. Rich talks about the importance of parents as role models in the faith of their children. He challenges us all to pray for young people to return to the Church. Rich also challenges men to take their responsibility as head of the family seriously, with passion and dedication. Rich can be contacted through the Catholic Speakers Organization: Rich Gannon - Business, Corporate Speaker, Faith & Fitness, Fatherhood, Men's Issues, Motivational, Professional Athlete, Radio / TV, Sports & Faith Catholic Speaker   #catholicsports, #raidersfootball, #nflbroadcaster, #catholicprofootball, #catholicspeakersorganization

Michael McGlinn is our guest on this episode. He is a husband and father, film maker, recording artist, founder of Sistine Films and the Adore Him Daily website. Michael played football at Notre Dame under the legendary coach Lou Holtz, although a life of football was not ultimately Michael's calling. While at Notre Dame he developed an interior life, a devotion to the Rosary, and a deep feeling of peace.   Michael left Notre Dame drawn to music and spent time in Nashville in search of his dream. He is a multi-instrumentalist (voice, guitar, bass, piano) and played with legendary musicians such as Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine, The Allman Brothers Band, and Genesis. Michael's life changed when he was given the opportunity to shoot a film in the Holy Land. This and many other experiences led him to develop a deep devotion to our Lord as well as his Catholic faith. Michael credits his success to attending Mass, Eucharistic Adoration (Holy Hour), praying the Rosary, devotion to the Divine Mercy and Sr. Faustina. The Holy Hour helps Michael ground his busy life by dedicating each day to the Lord. Michael encourages us to dedicate each of our days to the Lord. He challenges us to start each day in adoration of our Lord through the practice of a Holy Hour. Michael's passionate love for our Lord and the abundant fruits of his labors are a testament to the efficacy of this practice. Through his ministries and films, Michael hopes and prays to bring many people closer to our Lord. Links: Sistine Films:  Sistine Films Adore Him Daily: ADORE HIM DAILY | Substack Divine Mercy: Chaplet of Divine Mercy | USCCB, What is Divine Mercy? The Chaplet of The Divine Mercy | The Divine Mercy Sr. Faustina: St. Maria Faustina Kowalska - Biography | The Divine Mercy Eucharist: The Eucharist | USCCB Eucharistic Adoration: Eucharistic Devotion | USCCB #catholicsports, #sistinefilms, #divinemercy, #eucharisticadoration #fightingirish

Christopher McLaughlin joins us from Glasgow, Scotland and is one of the people heading up the Cause for Tommy Burns, hoping that Tommy will eventually be declared a saint in the Catholic Church. Christopher is our guest on this episode and shares his experiences and knowledge about the quest for Tommy's sainthood that many are praying for. Tommy was a professional soccer player, which in Scotland and most of the world, is called football. Tommy was a footballer for the famous, and beloved, Celtic team in Glasgow from 1975 to 1989 and later coached and managed the team. Tommy died in May of 2008 at the young age of 51 of melanoma, a form of skin cancer. He left behind his wife and four children. Christopher has a wealth of knowledge about Tommy, his life, and his humble and deep devotion to God and the Catholic faith. Christopher shares some history of Catholicism in Scotland and how it is intertwined with Celtic football. Tommy was very pious and humbly practiced corporal works of mercy throughout his life. According to Christopher, the love for Tommy was very apparent at his funeral, which included 40 priests and an estimated 20,000+ people. Christopher describes the process of opening a Cause for Sainthood according to the Church's Canon Law. The first step involves the bishop of the diocese where Tommy passed away. The final step, which could be a few years to hundreds of years away, culminates in the Pope declaring the person a saint. There are many steps and an enormous amount of prayer, research, and verification prior to a Pope declaring someone a saint. Opening a Cause for Sainthood does not guarantee Canonization, it often does not.  Christopher, and his fellow researcher Philip Church, are the “petitioners” in this process (see sainthood link below). They are asking for anyone who knew Tommy or is praying for an intercession from Tommy to contact them at contact@tommyburns.org Information about the process of sainthood in the Catholic Church: Saints | USCCB #catholicsports, #tommyburns, #celticfootball

Amayrani Higueldo actively participated in the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage last year and is our guest in this episode. This event was a precursor to the National Eucharistic Congress that was held in Indianapolis on July 20 – 21, 2024. The Pilgrimage consisted of four routes, East, West, North, and South which made the shape of a cross over America. The four groups met in Indianapolis for the Eucharistic Congress. Each group took our Lord, present in the Eucharist, as they made their way across the country ministering to everyone they met. Amayrani was on the Seton Route from the East that began in Connecticut. The Pilgrimage and Congress were part of a three-year Eucharistic Revival currently taking place in the Catholic Church nationwide. A devoted Philadelphia Phillies fan, Amayrani shares some experiences she had on the pilgrimage, which she describes as an intense ocean of grace. Although each day was different, Amayrani experienced her love for Our Lord in the Eucharist and in the lives of the people she met along the way. Amayrani shares many heartfelt and inspiring stories as she traveled with our Eucharistic Lord and fellow pilgrims. She has had a close relationship with Our Lady of Guadalupe for most of her life. Amayrani credits Our Lady's intercession with helping her apply for and participate in the procession.  Amayrani is now embarking on her profession as a nurse and looks forward to blessing her patients with the dignity and love of Our Lord, as she prays for them and strives to deliver the best care possible. Amayrani encourages us all to strive daily to stay close to Our Lord by attending Mass, receiving the Eucharist, completing a Holy Hour, reading Scripture, and praying the rosary.   Amayrani's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amayrannniii?igsh=aDExemppZXlmZDRr&utm_source=qr Link to the National Eucharistic Revival, Congress, and Pilgrimage:  10th National Eucharistic Congress - Official Website Link to information about the Eucharist: The Eucharist | USCCB Link to information about Our Lady of Guadalupe: The story of Our Lady of Guadalupe - Vatican News  #catholicsports, #eucharisticpilgrimage, #eucharisticrevival #Phillies

Kevin Becker played soccer in college and is our guest on this episode. Kevin was in his senior year of college at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania when he fell off a roof. He was found on the ground by friends, his head fractured, and his body broken. Kevin was in a coma and his devout parents rushed to be by his side. They were told by his doctors to brace for the worst. His family continued to pray and started a novena to Blessed Giorgio Frassati, a young man who died in 1925. While in a coma, Kevin had a supernatural experience which he explains in this podcast. Kevin didn't know who he encountered while he was in a coma until after his miraculous recovery. Now Kevin is a healthy man who enjoys playing soccer and beach volleyball with friends. He maintains a relationship with his friend Giorgio, is involved with the organization Frassati USA, and talks to groups about his experience. Blessed Giorgio Frassati's canonization to sainthood will take place during the Jubilee of Youth from July 28–Aug. 3, 2025, in Rome. https://youtu.be/S4JPnDZWQoo Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati | USCCB Brief Biography of Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati | FrassatiUSA, Inc. | Nashville, TN Information about the process of sainthood in the Catholic Church: Saints | USCCB Go Fund Me link for Blessed Giorgio Frassati canonization trip to Italy: https://gofund.me/8becefb9  #catholicsports, #blessedgiorgiofrassati, #frassattiusa, #miracle 

Fr. Tom Baker is our guest on this episode. He has been a Catholic priest for over 35 years and has participated in approximately 130 triathlons since his ordination. Fr. Tom explains what an Ironman competition is and what it involves. Fr. Tom talks about how he initially got involved in triathlete training and Ironman competitions. He enthusiastically talks about his life as an athlete. As a Catholic priest, Fr. Tom finds fulfillment in living for others. The support he has received as a priest and a triathlete from the parishes he has served in is very important to him. Fr. Tom enjoys using the lessons he learns in sports as tools to preach the Good News of Jesus to his parishioners. In his personal life and priestly ministry, Fr. Tom compares the discipline of being an athlete with the discipleship of being a Christian. Fr. Tom ends with the message the Angel Gabriel gave to Mary at the beginning of Luke's Gospel at the Annunciation: All things are possible. #catholicpriest #triathlon #ironman #prayerschedule 

Curt Tomasevicz is a former Olympic bobsledder and our guest on this episode. He participated in several Winter Olympic games encompassing about ten years and discusses his experiences and lessons learned. Curt is quite humble about the Olympic medals he's accumulated. Prior to his Olympic days, Curt played football at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). Currently he is a professor of Biological Systems Engineering at UNL and continues to be involved in sports as the Director of Sport Performance for USA Bobsled-Skeleton. Curt also works with the Nebraska Athletic Performance Laboratory and in his spare time he is a motivational speaker at high schools in Nebraska and around the country. Curt talks about how his faith has been woven in his life, even at a young age growing up in a small town in Nebraska. While a student at UNL, Curt was convinced that creation did not occur by chance, from the balance of the human body to the balance of space and the cosmos.  It was during this time he came to appreciate the importance that then Pope John Paul II gave to science. While an athlete, Curt did not pray that he (or his team) would win, he prayed that everyone would be safe. Much like in bobsledding, Curt believes that life should be taken one curve at a time. He discusses his view of fear, how he dealt with it as a bobsledder and how his experiences can be useful in everyday life.  #bobsledding #cornhuskers #catholic #prayer

Church on Wheels Chris Massaro is the Director of Mission Advancement for the Biking for Babies organization and our guest on this episode. Chris talks about how his love for sports began at a young age and continued into his college years. His relationship with our Lord grew in college at Vanderbilt University and later at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. Chris's time at the seminary shaped his understanding of virtue, courage to witness the Gospel, and made him a better man. Chris talks about his saintly devotions and his favorite Bible passage and how they affect his life. The main topic of his interview is the organization Biking for Babies which exists to renew the Culture of Life in society. Biking for Babies works with young adults and trains them to develop relationships with pregnancy and maternity centers. These ongoing relationships are central to the organization's mission to help women and families who face unplanned pregnancies. The funds raised by the bike rides are distributed to the pregnancy and maternity centers who have a relationship with Biking for Babies. Chris talks about how the redemptive suffering experienced for 600 miles on a bike can be offered to God for the suffering experienced by an unplanned pregnancy. He wants all listeners to know that God loves you, desires a deep relationship with you, and wants you to share that relationship with others! Biking for Babies - Renewing the Culture of Life 

Brenda Lorena Garcia is a professional stuntwoman and our guest on this episode. She trains in mixed martial arts, which she compares to the monastic life. Brenda is passionate about her faith and is driven to share it! Brenda eagerly shares her belief that dedication to physical training begins and ends with devout spiritual training. Her rigorous daily physical training for her job can only begin with the rigorous daily training of her spirit. Brenda explains what her participation in Opus Sanctorum Angelorum (Work of the Holy Angels) means to her and how it helps shape her life. She talks about how her early days working in Hollywood were different than they are now. In her experience, Hollywood is changing for the better. Brenda discusses the meaning of her statement that “as Catholics we're not called to fit in, we're called to stand out.”  Brenda challenges us all to be courageous and bravehearted and not to be afraid to be a saint! She wants everyone to know that God really loves us! Links to Brenda: https://www.facebook.com/brendalgarcia https://www.facebook.com/OfficialBrendaGarcia Instagram.com/BrendaLGarcia twitter.com/BrendaLGarciaX threads.net/@brendalgarcia linkedin.com/in/brendalorenagarcia For information about Opus Sanctorum Angelorum: Opus Sanctorum Angelorum - Work of the Holy Angels  

Natalie Garza, who actively participated in the recent National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, shares her amazing stories and experiences on this podcast. This event was a precursor to the National Eucharistic Congress held in Indianapolis on July 20 – 21, 2024. The Pilgrimage consisted of four routes, East, West, North, and South which made the shape of a cross over America. Each group took our Lord, present in the Eucharist, as they made their way across the country, ministering to everyone they met.   Natalie was on the Seton Route from the East that began in Connecticut. Natalie was the point person, taking care of behind-the-scenes activities. She also took her guitar and led songs of worship to our Lord present in the Eucharist as the group made their way to Indianapolis. Natalie's love and enthusiasm for our Lord is quite evident in the presentation of her experiences along the way as she walked and traveled with our Eucharistic Lord!   Natalie teaches theology at St. James Academy in Kansas City. She has taken up tennis and is the tennis coach at the school. Natalie encourages us all to be aware of where we are in relation to Jesus throughout the day and reminds us that He is always waiting to be found!   Links to Natalie: Email: nrgarza7@gmail.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Txb_4Yi0chY?feature=share Link to the National Eucharistic Revival, Congress, and Pilgrimage:  10th National Eucharistic Congress - Official Website Link to information about the Eucharist: The Eucharist | USCCB

In this episode, we talk with Dominic Carstens who participated as a Perpetual Pilgrim in the recent National Eucharistic Pilgrimage  This event was a precursor to the National Eucharistic Congress held in Indianapolis on July 20 – 21, 2024. The Pilgrimage consisted of four routes, East, West, North, and South which made the shape of a cross over America. Each group took our Lord, present in the Eucharist, as they made their way across the country ministering to everyone they met. Dominic was on the Seton Route from the East that began in Connecticut. Dominic's love and enthusiasm for our Lord is quite evident in the presentation of his experiences along the way as he walked and traveled with our Eucharistic Lord! Dominic's sports experience began humbly in a cow pasture in Wisconsin. After graduating from high school, Dominic was a missionary in Kenya where sports was a way to connect with the children. He graduated from college this year and works at the Catholic Ecology Center. Dominic encourages us all to grow closer to our Lord, especially through the Sacraments of Confession and the Eucharist and to encourage others to do the same. Links to Dominic: Instagram: @domdabombc Dominic Carstens: Facebook, LinkedIn Catholic Ecology Center: Catholic Ecology Center Link to the National Eucharistic Revival, Congress, and Pilgrimage: 10th National Eucharistic Congress - Official Website Link to information about the Eucharist: The Eucharist | USCCB

In this episode, we talk with Justin Koelbl, a former cyclist with his sights on competing in the Tour de France. While training abroad, Justin, and his father and brother all experienced a debilitating disease that would sideline their sports aspirations. This life altering experience led Justin into a tour de force to find not only the cause of his family's suffering and some relief, but also toward an exploration of the Catholic teaching and meaning of suffering.   Justin was initially angry at God for seemingly allowing his suffering and that of his family. This belief was transformed into a deeper relationship with God as well as a better understanding of the spiritual meaning and purpose that redemptive suffering plays in his life.   Justin's inspiring family story can be a blessing for anyone who finds themselves grappling with their own suffering or knows someone who suffers. Justin's ongoing life experience can help us better understand the words of St. Paul in Romans 8:18 – “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us.”    https://justinkoelbl.com/

In this episode, we talk with Bob Schuchts, PhD., a retired therapist of over 30 years as well as an author. He has also been an adjunct professor at local colleges in Florida. Although Dr. Bob may be retired from his therapy practice, he is not basking in retirement.   Dr. Bob is the founder of the John Paul II Healing Center to which he credits the development of the Center to the urgings of God. The Center opened in 2004. Dr. Bob talks about the impact Pope John Paul II's Theology of the Body had on his life and the central role it continues to play at the Healing Center. He was also very interested in the topic of healing and offers a wholesome definition of healing for those seeking to grow closer to God.   Dr. Bob is also the co-host of the podcast “Restore the Glory” with a colleague where they talk about the freedom available through Jesus Christ.    Dr. Bob relates how his love for Jesus, football, and his involvement in a Christian athlete's group in his early days drew him to enjoy and grow from the experience of a team, the sense of community, and a place where he was able to develop bonds with team members.    John Paul II Healing Center – Transformation in the Heart of the Church (jpiihealingcenter.org) Restore the Glory (restoretheglorypodcast.com)

In this episode, we talk to Fr. Richard Rocha, Catholic chaplain of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs. In addition to these ministries, Fr. Rocha is the pastor of St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in Blue Springs, Missouri. Father played football in high school and college and began coaching.  He coached for 10 years on the high school level and 4 years on the college level. Father had his life planned out as a football coach and a happily married man with a wonderful wife and lots of children. But God had other plans for Richard. As he entered the seminary, Richard thought his sports days were over. But, once again, God had other plans. Today, Fr. Rocha is in his 19th season with the KC Royals and his 8th season with the KC Chiefs as team priest.  Along with his duties as a pastor of a large Catholic church, it's easy to see that Fr. Rocha is a busy man! He cheerfully serves our Lord in all these capacities and implores people to “ask God what His Will is for us every day!”

In this episode, we talk to Steve Cunningham, founder of Sensus Fidelium, a robust and comprehensive website filled with videos on just about every topic having to do with the Catholic faith. Steve spends most of his days looking for new content for his website. His passion and drive stem from his desire to share the faith he loves. Steve started his ministry in 2013 and now his website has over 12,000 videos and 13,000 links and growing. Steve played baseball and basketball in his younger years and now applies the discipline and drive he learned in sports to maintain a successful website. He is also the founder of Sensus Fidelium Press that he started to help his friends and burgeoning authors get published. To date, Sensus Fidelium Press has 60 to 70 books available. In his spare time, Steve hosts a podcast with a friend called News from the Pew. As a faithful Catholic husband, father, and tireless businessman, Steve's motto comes from his sports days: Embrace the suffering.   Links: sensusfidelium.com www.youtube.com/@SensusFidelium sensusfideliumpress.com News from the Pew: https://www.youtube.com/live/B3gY64ucyxo?si=FJ-iGBatpYbOdgsJ

In this episode, we talk with Taylor Kemp, co-host of Symbolon: The Faith of the Church. He is also the vice president of content at the Augustine Institute. While playing professional soccer for D.C. United, Taylor converted to the Catholic Church which led him to an exciting end of his soccer career. Taylor is married and has three young children. He is excited about the re-launch of the new Symbolon series by the Augustine Institute. Symbolon is on Formed, a Catholic steaming service. Taylor talks about trusting God, trusting ourselves, loving the process, and the importance of patience with God, others, and ourselves.    Love the Process article link: Patience: Trusting the Process - Catholic Apostolate Center   Augustine Institute link: Augustine Institute | Catholic Educational Apostolate & Theology Graduate School    Augustine Institute Symbolon link: Symbolon: The Faith of the Church (augustineinstitute.org)    Formed link: FORMED | On-Demand Catholic Movies, Audio Books, Podcasts & More 

In this episode, we talk with Tim Smyczek about his experience as a professional tennis player. He played professionally for many years, even in the US and Australian Opens. Tim is known to many when he played in the 2015 Australian Open against Rafael Nadel. In this match, Tim did the “unthinkable” in the tennis world. Tim is very humble when talking about the years he played professional tennis. He retired from tennis in 2019 and is now a devoted family man and is currently working in real estate and private equity. Tim was exposed to Opus Dei (Latin for the “Work of God”) early in his life. He carried this religious practice with him in his tennis life. Opus Dei continues to be a very important way of life and organization for his family (Tim refers to Opus Dei as the Center of Work). Tim is dedicated to the teachings and practices of the founder of Opus Dei, Saint Josemaría Escrivá. Tim talks about one of the “Pillars” of Opus Dei that is important to him: spend time with men who are better than you. For information, follow this link: Opus Dei - Finding God in daily life

In this episode we talk to Dave Rima and discuss his involvement with youth baseball in Long Beach, CA. Dave talks about his love for faith, family, and baseball. In addition to running his own company, Dave spends much of his time on the baseball field helping boys not only excel in the sport, but more importantly, learn lessons that will help them flourish in their lives. He is also dedicated to helping the parents who entrust their boys to him and the coaches. Dave is also a prolific baseball card aficionado and discusses his love for his hobby. He is also candid about a life struggle that he deals with. Although Dave has a full and busy life, his faith, family, and attending Mass are at the top of his priorities. For information about agoraphobia, follow this link: Agoraphobia - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

In this episode, we talk with Deanne Miller, co-founder of SoulCore. Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and life experiences, Deanne and her dear friend Colleen Scariano developed SoulCore, an apostolate that leads participants closer to Jesus and His mother, Mary, through the gift of the Rosary and body movements. SoulCore is Christ-centered and incorporates prayer with body movements and is a great way to center our hectic lives. SoulCore fosters a sense of community, teamwork, and prayer. Deanne describes SoulCore as an apostolate of joy where prayer is the focus. SoulCore calls us to live out 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: "Glorify God in your body". In the Catholic Church, May is historically dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus. SoulCore follows this call of the Church and has a challenge for the month of May: “Movement for Mary” and this year's challenge is focused on the various titles the Church has assigned to the mother of Our Lord. Further information about SoulCore can be found on their website: https://soulcore.com

In this episode, we will talk with Fr. John Henry Hanson, O. Praem author of the book “Coached by Josemaría Escrivá: Lessons in Discipleship”. Saint Josemaría Escrivá is the founder of Opus Dei (Latin for the “Work of God”). Fr. John Henry talks about the role of a coach, uses athletics as a metaphor for the spiritual life, and compares physical training to discipleship. He discusses the importance of abandoning our lives to God and also having a personal program for our spiritual lives. Fr. John Henry's interview can be summed up in this quote from Matthew 6:21 - For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be. Coached by Josemaria Escriva | Lessons in Discipleship – Scepter Publishers Coached by Josemaría Escrivá: Fr. John Henry Hanson, O. Praem.: 9781594175084: Amazon.com: Books https://www.stmichaelsabbey.com/ https://sacredheartretreathouse.com/

In this episode of the Catholic Sportsman Show, join us as we talk to Hugh Blane, founder, and president of Claris Consulting. Hugh talks about his sports beginnings in Scotland and gives us a brief explanation of Ignatian spirituality and how it affects his life, family, and career. He explains what the Beatitudes found in Matthew 5:3-12 have to do with running a successful business. Learn why the phrases Love Deeply, Learn Daily, and Lead Boldly are important in his life. Hugh encourages listeners to become strong, faithful people as he shares heartfelt stories that impacted his life and faith. He challenges us all to grow spiritually so we are equipped to help others do the same. Hugh's interview can be summed up in this quote from Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Lead Boldly! https://clarisconsulting.net/   Link to Hugh's new book: Lead Boldly https://amzn.to/42Pc7Vx

In this episode of the Catholic Sportsman Show, please join us as we have the honor to talk with Lou Holtz, the legendary football coach of the University of Notre Dame. Coach Holtz discusses his faith and how it affects his life, family, and profession. He also reflects on his career and shares memorable stories that affected his life and coaching perspective. Also, Coach Holtz shares his wisdom, life lessons, and the importance of being a good example as a person and as a team. He has a love for Our Lord and for the “Lady on the Dome”. Holtz Heroes, www.holtzheroes.org  

In this episode, we will talk with Frank Dalena who is host of the Bring The Juice Podcast. Frank grew up on a farm in the Central Valley of California while playing every sport they had to offer. Walked-On to his Division 1 hometown team Fresno State and played his 5 years of football before moving to Park City, Utah to chase a new Olympic venture.  God has always been in Frank's life wherever he has gone and in this episode we will hear how important prayer is for him in every aspect of his life. To follow Frank on his podcast Bring the Juice, you can go to:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQpOp512bQH8DN7s_WUgaSw  

In this episode of the Catholic Sportsman Show podcast, join us as we talk with Deacon Marcelo Ferrari on his journey to and at St. John's seminary in Boston, Mass. God willing, his journey will continue as a Catholic priest as he looks forward to his ordination in May 2024. In addition, we discuss his involvement in the documentary: "Souls in the Game", which is available for free viewing at soulsinthegame.com or on YouTube. To fully appreciate and understand this episode of the Catholic Sportsman Show, we suggest watching the video before listening to the podcast.    At St John's Seminary, basketball is another way for the seminarians to grow closer to God, their teammates and their community. The sacrifice given on the court fosters a greater love of God, neighbor, and service of others through the support of a team.  Saint John's Seminary & the Archdiocese of Boston teamed up for “Souls in the Game,” a new documentary depicting the spiritual life of seminarians intertwined with their love of basketball. Web site for St. John's Seminary https://www.sjs.edu/ Information about the National Vocations Week in the Catholic Church can be found at National Vocation Awareness Week | USCCB   

In this episode, we will talk with Ben Steele, who is the Tight Ends coach of the Arizona Cardinals and we'll learn about the fruits of being consistent with all aspects of our lives: faith, family and football. Also, we'll talk about the rosaries that Ben makes and gives to people to encourage them in their faith walk as was done to him earlier in his life. For more information on how to support US Veterans and their families, go to: www.playthenextplay.org

Join us as we talk with Jim Schroeder PhD, who is the Vice President of the Department of Psychology and Wellness, and training director of the pre-doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Easterseals Rehabilitation Center in Evansville, Indiana. Jim will discuss his Catholic faith and sports on how they are integrated into his life and his recent Ironman triathlon experience. To find out more about Jim Schroeder's books, podcast, articles and events, please visit: https://www.james-schroeder.com/ To learn more about prayer movement, please use this article link below:  https://james-schroeder.com/it-moves-therefore-it-is/

Join us as we talk with Andrew Fowler on the Catholic Sportsman Show about his Catholic faith, baseball, the impact of Blessed Michael McGivney on this life, music and his writing. You can follow Andrew's work at: Twitter at @afowlXC  Knights of Columbus Baseball: An American Story link:  KofC and Baseball | Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center (michaelmcgivneycenter.org)  Link to Substack: https://andyfowler.substack.com/ Subscribe to Andrew's free Substack for not only movie reviews, but also for his faith-based award-winning short stories.

In this episode of the CSM Show, Anthony Brannon will discuss how his faith has intersected with his family, sports, acting/producing and producing digital content. Every play counted for him on the field and every prayer and act in his life mattered to God in his faith journey. To keep in touch with Anthony's work with The Meaning of Music project, please see the links below: https://www.thevigilproject.com/meaningofmusic   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqER91dc_Dw  

Matt D'Antuono will share how he can pray, be a husband and father of 9 children, teach physics, run a philosophy club at a public high school, lead a discussion in Great Books and still exercise! Wow! However, Matt doesn't binge watch TV shows! Please join our very educational and informative discussion with Matt D'Antuono!  Here are the links discussed on the show and stay in touch with Matt: https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/foolserrand/ A Fool's Errand: A Brief, Informal Introduction to Philosophy for Young Catholics / enroutebooksandmedia.com   https://www.youtube.com/c/DonecRequiescatwithMattDAntuono DonecRequiescat with Matt D'Antuono I am a physics teacher who also has a degree in philosophy. I wear a pocket protector and I attend mass at least weekly. I read philosophy, theology, and physics books for fun. I am interested in the pursuit of Truth, wherever it (or He) leads, and helping others along the way, and I enjoy sharing what I learn and find interesting. So far, my search for truth has led me to the Roman Catholic Church. After trying to disprove it, I came to a point where I could not deny it. Despite degrees in physics and philosophy from secular institutions, everything in my experience and education has led me to believe. Matthew D'Antuono is a member of the Catholic Speakers Organization, CatholicSpeakers.com. Other youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/misterD418 Twitter: @MisterD418 If you like what you see here, you might like these things I have written which you might call books: https://smile.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=matt+d%27antuono www.youtube.com   https://www.youtube.com/@misterD418   https://www.facebook.com/FoolOnAnErrand/   https://www.ncregister.com/author/matt-d-antuono Matt D'Antuono - NCRegister Matt D'Antuono is a physics teacher, a Great Books discussion moderator for the Angelicum Academy, and an associate of the community of the Friars of the Renewal. He lives on a hobby farm in New Jersey with his wife and nine children. He holds bachelor's degrees in physics and philosophy, a master's degree in special education, and a master's degree in philosophy from Holy Apostles in Cromwell, Connecticut. He returned to the Catholic Church in 2008. He is the author of A Fool's Errand: A Brief, Informal Introduction to Philosophy for Young Catholics, The Wiseguy and the Fool and Philosophy Fridays. On YouTube you can find him at DonecRequiescat and his family at MisterD418. Matt is also a Catholic speaker and a member of the

In this episode, we will discuss with Devin Schadt about his co-founding of the Fathers of St. Joseph which is an organization that is sorely needed in our world today. Devin is a husband and father and will share his faith walk and how his devotion to St. Joseph helped him to be a better husband and father. In addition, we'll discuss how sports impacted Devin's life and his relationship with God. To learn more about the Fathers of St. Joseph, please go to: https://fathersofstjoseph.org/           

In this episode of The Catholic Sportsman Show, we'll talk with Kellen Clemens about his faith walk with his wife and four children, his time as an NFL quarterback and now as Board Chair of Coeur du Christ classical academy.   Also, we'll discuss with Kellen what is the biggest challenge for a quarterback and what is the most important characteristic needed for any family, school, sports team or business to succeed.   To learn more about Coeur du Christ, please go to the link below:  https://coeurduchrist.org

In this episode of the Catholic Sportsman Show, we'll talk with Father Roger Landry and how sports were an integral part of his youth and young adulthood. Father walked on the Harvard tennis team and in college started attending daily Mass which eventually led him to his vocation as a priest! Currently, Father Landry is the Catholic Chaplain to Columbia University in New York and is a National Eucharistic Preacher for the the USCCB's National Eucharistic Revival. To keep up with Father's activities, articles and homilies, please go to: www.catholicpreaching.com      

Please listen in as Cody Clark describes an excellent roadmap for a prayer life that allows someone to grow closer to God. Also, we'll discuss Cody's baseball experience in college and professional baseball including his current position as amateur scout with the Kansas City Royals. Cody was a bullpen coach with the Royals when they won the World Series in 2015, so this is a good time of year to talk about baseball and the World Series!

Please listen to our conversation with Samantha Kelley of FIERCE Athlete and hear about her recovery from a serious leg injury and continued Division 1 college soccer career while she deepened her faith in an encounter with the Eucharist. Along with learning more about the Theology of the Body, receiving a certification in Strength and Conditioning and achieving a Masters in Catholic Psychology, Samantha founded FIERCE Athlete that promotes truth and beauty in the realm of women's athletics.  FIERCE Athlete fills many important needs for today's female athletes! To contact FIERCE or to follow all of their current/upcoming projects goto: https://fierceathlete.org/      

In this episode, we will hear about Lucy Westlake's story in becoming the youngest US woman to climb Mt. Everest. In addition, Lucy has a passion to help provide as much clean drinking water for those communities and countries who desperately need it. To do these and anything else in life, you need to first put your trust in Jesus Christ-Amen! To hear more about Lucy Westlake's climbing expeditions and clean water projects, please see the links below. Instagram http://www.instagram.com/lucy.westlake.22   YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/c/LucyWestlake22   My Etsy shop (100% of profits go towards safe water projects in Uganda and Kenya)  http://www.etsy.com/shop/LucyClimbs   To support my Antarctic expedition https://gofund.me/5161052a

Will you win or lose that game? Will it be Heaven or Hell? Join Fr. Antony Sumich and learn how we can keep playing until the final whistle and never give up. Keep fighting until your opponent is defeated!   To hear more with Fr. Antony Sumich, you can go to: Catholic Opinion (planetaudio.org.nz)  To learn more about the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter: https://fssp.com/    

Join us as we talk with Ben Steele and discuss his faith and family, the exciting upcoming football season with the Denver Broncos, what makes football teams great, and how using super strong rosaries can change your life for the better! Check out: www.playthenextplay.org  

Each and every day we need to re-fill our cup for Christ! Join us for a conversation with Kramer Soderberg, Head Men's Basketball Coach at Millikin University.   Listen how Holy Indifference can get us through each and every day and keep our eyes on Christ and the goal of heaven for all us. You can get Kramer's book, Fill Your Cup for Christ at www.kramersoderberg.com      

Enjoy our episode with Rebecca Dussault who will talk about her experiences through elite national and international cross country skiing while on her faith and family life journey. To keep your body and soul together at the same level, it will require prayer and exercise.  Nobody likes exercise, but we all need to start with a first step to getting in shape and taking care of ourselves. Begin again at: http://www.fitcatholicmom.com/   God Bless!    

Alan Webb, United States running record holder and Olympian, shares how doing the little things correctly in our marriage life, spiritual life and personal life all add up and can make a difference. Also, Alan shares how he journeyed with his wife and family into the Catholic Church-Welcome Home Alan!

Please join us for this episode of the Catholic Sportsman Show where we recap the Camino de Sonoma walk in October of 2021. Adam Peacocke and Stephen Morris from the Leadership team of the Camino de Sonoma will join us for the Camino recap breakdown! For more information on the Camino de Sonoma, please visit the link below. www.caminodesonoma.com      

George Rose, Executive Advisor, Pacific Rim Operations with the New York Yankees, Advisor-  Yomiuri Giants/Shimbun, shares his life journey in his Catholic faith, professional baseball, and Japan. With everything in life, including his battle with lung cancer, George keeps his trust in Jesus Christ!   Please join us for this episode of the Catholic Sportsman Show!   Blessed Father Michael Sopocko, pray for us!   To hear more with George Rose, please see his podcast link below:   Brothers In Arms - Domestic Church Media - Ewing, NJ   Catholic Men's conference retreat link below:   2021 Men's Conference — Catholic Men For Jesus Christ

Patrick O'Hearn is Acquisitions Editor at TAN Books and he is looking for writing talent much like a college football recruiter is looking for that unknown 2-star or 3-star football recruit that can grow into starting player someday in the future. As John Wooden says, execution is key, and God wants us to do all things with love.  Do the small tasks well with love and God may fill your cup even more. To see more on Patrick's books, please see the information listed below. If a young child you know likes the movie Ben Hur, this children's book would make a great Christmas present.     https://contemplativeheartpress.com/nissim-the-shepherd-of-bethlehem/   A great resource for anyone that has lost a child from miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss.    https://www.amazon.com/Nursery-Heaven-Miscarriage-Stillbirth-Parents/dp/1734149302    

Join us in celebrating the life of Jeff Corrigan, co-founder, of The Catholic Sportsman Show. Special guests: Jeff's dear college friends, Irving Bartikofsky and Robert Miller. May Jeff Rest in peace! Jeff Corrigan Life Video Tribute: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=LqcuO1UmWRg&feature=youtu.be Music Credit: Irish Blessing by The Priests

Stephen Morris describes how he went from toy executive in car crazy Southern California to walking on the Camino de Sonoma. Listen to Stephen's journey and how the Camino called to him.

A Holy Week Special Interview: Listen to Chad Cheramie, former HS Star offensive Lineman and Nichols State player, share his faith inspired call by Jesus to consider the Priesthood. Chad is now working on his priestly formation studies at St. Joesph Abbey and Seminary College in Louisiana. Chad describes his fall from faith as a player, harrowing time when he considered teen suicide, then inspiring moments when god revealed himself and called him home. 

A retro look into the Catholic legends of the Super Bowls, both past and present.  Jeff takes us on an in-depth look at the notable big game achievements from Catholic Super Bowl NFL stars like Tom Brady, Bret Favre, Roger Staubach, and Bob Griese. Randy covers the hallowed history of greatest Super Bowl winning Catholic head coaches like Don Shula, Mike Dikta, Chuck Noll,  and of the course, the Legendary Vince Lombardi. Paul wraps our show with a review of the best Pro Life Super Bowl Ads appearing in the most recent Super Bowl 55 from Tampa Bay in early February. 

Today's show focuses on young Catholic saints, many of which were great athletes driven by their calling of the Holy Spirit at an early age. Randy takes us on a primer on how to become a saint. We hear about a surfing  "Soon to be a Saint, A skiing saint in training and our very own CSM patron Saint of "technology" and probably "e-sports", the blessed Carlo Acutis. We also recognize a great Catholic man of sports, former LA Dodger Manager Tommy Lasorda, who passed away last month at 93 years ago. link to BBC article about the process of sainthood for Carlo Acutis https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-54507064

Tyler Rowley, native of Rhode Island, HS and college football champion. Played for NCAA Ivy League champ Brown University, speaks on his love for sports, and it's connection to his lifelong Catholic faith. He also relates the importance of "Fatherhood in the Catholic family." He shares thoughts and examples from his book: " 23 Catholics Tell How Their Fathers Led Them to Christ" and the challenges he faces as President of the Servants of Christ--a pro life organization working on the front lines of the fight against abortion.

Spencer Swoope, lifelong athlete--football QB and professional boxer tells the CSM Staff about his life journey in and out of Christ's grasp. Eventually Spencer has an Easter epiphany and as he changes his life with God forever, and pursues his dream of boxing, and meets the love of his life. God has now graced the Swoope family with 11 children. Spencer. Mr Swoope is also the Southern Region Marketing Manager for ETWN Catholic TV Network based in Alabama.

Today's podcast features a look at St. Sebastian, the first Patron Saint of Athletes. "San Sebastian" is the Catholic Sportsman Show Patron Saint. Randy gives us a historical look at how he became a saint of the Catholic Church. Learn the amazing tale of his "dual martyrdom" at the hands of Emperor Diocleasian in the late 3rd century. We also discuss the efforts of a local LA and Denver St Sebastian layperson group instrumental at helping youths at risk gain access to sports equipment for inner city sports participation. Listen to your hosts Randy Laya, Paul Michelini, and Jeff Corrigan.