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Athletes Who Care

Special Note - The link to Annika's Foundation site in the USA Today story doesn't work properly.  You can visit the ANNIKA Foundation site by clicking here.

By Brian Truitt and Dennis McCafferty (Courtesy of USA Today)

Settling in at a Manhattan photo studio, New York Giants quarterback and 2008 Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning is making his debut as a fashion photographer. The pressure is on: His subject today is Annika Sorenstam, one of the best women golfers ever, dressed in a purple sheath.

"Work it! Arch your back! Manning playfully barks to Sorenstam, as the golfer gamely flexes her biceps and twists her body into numerous poses.  "If it's not uncomfortable," Manning jokes, "then you're in the wrong position!" Before long, Manning yields the camera to the real pros, and the annual USA WEEKEND Magazine Most Caring Athletes cover shoot proceeds.

Both athletes enjoy a lofty perch in the world of sports. With an amazing 72 LPGA victories, including 10 major tournament championships, Sorenstam has announced that she's stepping away from pro golf, effective at the year's end. Manning, of course, won the NFL's ultimate prize for one of the league's most storied and high-profile franchises.

And both athletes represent the best when it comes to giving back to their communities. They reach out to young people with scholarships, children's hospital projects and friendly visits -- or a round of golf -- to help brighten the lives of seriously ill kids. Somehow, it's not surprising that Sorenstam and Manning can be a bit competitive when it comes to helping others. "I don't want to be a little player in this foundation game," Sorenstam says. "You either go for it, or you don't bother showing up."

To learn more about the many ways Manning and Sorenstam show they care, read on.

(Note - This issue of USAToday Weekend appears in this Sunday's papers so if you'd like a hard copy, book over to Barnes and Noble (as Golf54Deciple puts it) or your local newspaper reseller and snap one up.)

Proud!!

Good evening everyone.  I must say that when the Steelers lose, it leaves me a little sour.  However, tonight Annika made me so proud, that even a Steelers loss can't wipe the smile off of my face. 

In an effort to support Junior golf, Rolex, and Ginn Reunion Resort, which is hosting the Polo Junior Championship this week, Annika attended the Rolex AJGA Awards Banquet tonight.  It was a lovely evening in which the best juniors in the country were honored for their incredible achievements.  Having Annika as a surprise guest at the dinner seemed to make it that much more special for them....especially when the former little girl from Sweden who used to three putt to avoid giving winner's speeches, captivated a room with an eloquent talk that came from the heart.  She shared some stories with which the juniors could relate, and stressed the importance of working hard and following their dreams.  As the tears welled in my eyes, I couldn't help but take it all in...the proud parents, the wide-eyed kids, and the standing ovation for one of the game's greats sharing her passion for life.  It was a touching scene that I was proud to witness! 

   

View from outside the ropes...

Greetings....My name is Mike McGee and as a member of Annika's team, I will be checking in from time to time.  As always, I enjoyed watching Annika play today.  It's inspiring to see her in action and the positive impact she has on her fans. I noticed lots of shirts in her gallery from the ANNIKA Collection and even saw a couple ANNIKA Academy hats!  I felt for her as it was one of those days where things don't quite go as planned.  She hit some great shots and putted well, but also put three in the water (saving bogey each time).  Tomorrow is another day...that's the beauty of this crazy game!