Uncommon Champions

Just in time for the 2022 Winter Olympics, here is a motivating collection of true stories from athletes, including many former Olympians, who have faced incredible adversity—proving that integrity and honor are not entirely missing from the playing fields. Readers will learn about blind mountain climber Erik Weihenmayer, who scaled the heights of Mount McKinley; sprinter Gail Devers, who returned from a life-threatening illness to defend her Olympic title... and more. Despite challenges, each of these stars found the heart and stamina to persevere. With themes of resilience and grit, this inspirational book includes a foreword by noted former baseball player and coach Bobby Valentine, with additional stories from the following athletes: Michelle Akers: The Fire Within Ruben Gonzalez: Street Survivor Jim Eisenreich: This Is Who I Am John Lucas: One on One Mansour Bahrami: For the Love of the Game Greg LeMond: Making a New Plan Diana Golden Brosnihan: Gliding on the Edge Chris Zorich: Zora’s Gift Zina Garrison: No One Is Perfect Bob Welch: Living One Day at a Time Willie O’Ree: Breaking the Barriers Dan O’Brien: No Sure Thing Jean Driscoll: Don’t Look Back