Baseball All-Stars Speak at Faith-Filled Premiere
Three of the biggest names in Major League Baseball (MLB) came together this past Sunday night in Phoenix for the world premiere of their newest faith-focused venture based on America's favorite pastime.
Among others, baseball all-stars Mike Piazza, Jeff Suppan, and Mike Sweeney all made appearances at the launching of the inspirational film Champions of Faith: Baseball Edition, which uses their sport as a metaphor for life. Each spoke about how their faith has shaped their careers.
The film, which will be available only on DVD, shows how faith plays a crucial part in even today's greatest sports heroes, and humanizes them, showing the audience how God speaks to everyone in the same way.
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"This is not just a sports film," explained Piazza, current designated hitter for the Oakland Athletics and twelve-time all-star. "It's a work of art."
Inside the DVD, the audience will go into the lives of more than 30 MLB players and coaches who will show what makes a professional athlete and the ordinary human being so great. They will all share about "family, sacrifice, leadership, humility and the many virtues and spiritual lessons they have learned from the game," according to a preview.
The players involved within the movie were honored to be a part of the cause, happy to highlight the strong impact faith has in everyday life.
"Champions of Faith is a treasure that will inspire others for generations," expressed Mike Sweeney, captain of the Kansas City Royals and five-time all-star. "I have never, in my entire life, been more proud to be part of a fraternity or cast of men like this."
The 60-minute production will feature inspirational music from legendary musician Bob Dylan, known as one of the greatest songwriters in history, as well as current show stopper and three-time Grammy winners Third Day.
Tom Allen, the producer and director of the film, was excited for the movie's prospects, noting the wide appeal it could bring to both Christian and secular households.
"Making Champions of Faith has been one of the most challenging and exhilarating experiences of my life," said Allen. "It's my hope that the film touches every household in America the way it has already touched mine."
The official release of the DVD will be just after the opening day for the 2007 MLB season and will include both English and Spanish subtitles.
The movie stars other noteworthy figures such as Sean Casey, David Eckstein, Craig Biggio, Juan Pierre, Tom Glavine, Jack McKeon, Ivan Rodriguez, Jim Leyland, Mike Scioscia, Sandy Alomar Sr., Rich Donnelly, and Darrell Miller, among others.
On the web: a full roster at ChampionsofFaith.com.
