Sports Connections with David Smale

Episode 164: Andy Katz - A Sports Legend Living His Dream

Andy Katz is one of college basketball's finest reporters. On this episode of Sports Connections, Andy and David discuss college basketball on a national level. The two talk about their favorite locations in the sport. Andy also goes in-depth on his friendship with former President Barack Obama.

Episode 163: Mark Neely - A Broadcaster Divided

Mark Neely has been a broadcaster for many years, including some of the biggest games in College Football, Major League Baseball and other sports. In this episode of Sports Connections with David Smale, Mark and David look back on their careers and discuss their favorite moments in sports.

Episode 162: Rich Gannon - Quarterback Evangelist

Rich Gannon played 18 seasons in the NFL and now he works as an ambassador for Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Rich and David discuss how being a leader is important in today's society and how the skills he learned during his time on the gridiron apply to his life today.

Episode 161: Rece Davis - Exceptional Sportscaster

Rece Davis is one of the premier broadcasters in the sports industry. In this interview, David talks with Rece about his background, the sports world, and his faith. 

Episode 160: Kathryn Morrissey - Bucket A-Lister

If you’re a sports fan—and you wouldn’t be listening to this podcast if you weren’t—and you have a bucket list, you need to add the College World Series to your list. While you’re at it, you might put it at or near the top of that list. Kathryn Morrissey heads up the College World Series of Omaha, Inc., the host committee of college baseball’s biggest event. She’s been part of the event for more than 30 years, and she’s retiring while it’s continuing to gain popularity. Later this week, the 2022 event kicks off. So grab yourself a Zesto and get ready for some great baseball!

Episode 159: Whit Merrifield - Underappreciated Superstar

Whit Merrifield might be the best-kept secret in Major League baseball today. He’s led the American League in at least one offensive category—many times multiple categories—every full season he’s played. Yet few outside of Kansas City can tell you much about him. He’s one of the leaders of the youthful Kansas City Royals, and he’s very candid about his desire to bring a winner back to the Heartland.

Episode 158: Collin Klein - Face of K-State Football

It sounds strange to say that Collin Klien is the face of the Kansas State football program since he’s neither a current player nor the head coach. But there are few who will disagree. Klien played quarterback for the Wildcats from 2009-12. He was the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2012. He has risen through the coaching ranks to offensive coordinator, and no doubt will be the head coach at some point. He’s even married to former K-State women’s hoops player (and daughter of a K-State all-American linebacker) Shalin Spani.

Episode 157: Roger Espinoza - Local Legend

Roger Espinoza has been with the Sporting Kansas City franchise for so long, he was drafted by the Kansas City Wizards. His time as a player began before Peter Vermes became the manager of the club. Yes, he’s been around for a long time. He’s one of the most popular players on the roster because he always gives every ounce of effort. What you may not know is that Espinoza also has a great sense of humor, which he displays in today’s interview.

Episode 156: John Mangini - A Collection of America’s Pastime

John Mangini is like many men his age. He grew up collecting baseball cards. But unlike many of his contemporaries, he still has much of that collection—and a lot more. He now has more than 100,000 cards, plus a museum-worthy assortment of other baseball memorabilia in his collection. The native of the Pittsburgh area has spent a lifetime enjoying the game of baseball through collectibles.

Episode 155: Adam Wainwright - “Uncle Charlie” Still Has It

Adam Wainwright recently became the first pitcher older than 40 to pitch seven scoreless innings and allow one hit since 2009. Yeah, he’s still got it. But “Uncle Charlie,” the nickname he earned for his outstanding curveball, is more than just a great competitor; he’s also a great guy. He was the 2020 Roberto Clemente Award winner, given to the MLB player who best exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement and the individual’s contribution to his team. He’s active with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Pro Athletes Outreach.