‘The Rookie’: The rest of the story

Blogging live from Abilene, Texas
“The Rookie,” a 2002 Disney feature film, captured Jim Morris’ incredible journey from small-town Texas chemistry teacher/baseball coach to major-league pitcher.
Years after injuries cut short his playing career, Morris — played by veteran actor Dennis Quaid — agreed to try out for the major leagues if his high school team made the playoffs. At age 35, he threw 98 miles per hour and signed a contract with the Tampa Bay Rays.
It’s an inspiring story that thrilled movie audiences.
But Morris’ journey didn’t end with the film’s dramatic climax — or with his short baseball career. A member of the Kerrville Church of Christ in Texas, Morris is among the speakers this week at Abilene Christian University’s Summit Bible conference.
This afternoon, I had the opportunity to interview Morris about life after baseball, about his faith and about his special relationship with Arms of Hope, a ministry associated with Churches of Christ that serves children and needy single-mother families.
In many ways, the rest of the story is even better than the movie. You can read all about it in a future edition of The Christian Chronicle. Stay tuned.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aceWXcvFOvI&feature=related

• Feedback
  Thanks for covering this story about an amazing man with a huge heart!

  Kevin McDonald

  September, 21 2010

  Jim is a good man on so many levels, and I was blessed to have been able to spend some time coaching with him. It thrills me to see Jim having such a positive influence on so many people!

  dewey leggett

  September, 24 2010

  Jim is working with Arms of Hope (combination of Boles & Medina Childrens Homes)and his heart for children in need is enormous. If you ever have a chance to hear him tell his story, be sure and be there. The Lord is truly living in him.

  Tom and Lucy Fullerton

  September, 28 2010