We all know of, have heard of or even been to see Bronson Arroyo the musician. In fact his recent performance in Boston brought about controversy here on the GSI blog because of his changing of the words to the Augustana song, "Boston." What you may not know is that there is another relatively local athlete that has a band. Last night I was privileged to hear Hunter Smith's band, Connersvine, perform at Winter Jam '08. Smith, for those that may not know, is the punter for the Indianapolis Colts. The band consists of Smith and a long time friend of his, Chris Wilson. They are an acoustic-style band that plays Christian rock music. Yes, Smith is a devout Christian. Connersvine has been around for almost 10 years according to Smith. I had never heard of them until last night. I didn't even know he was going to be there last night. But I'm glad he was. Smith, a member of the Colts since 1999 when he was drafted out of Notre Dame, has a great voice and his band has a great style to their music.
With the way the concert was set up last night, Smith and Wilson only had the chance to play a couple songs. One of the songs they played was called "Hero." Smith gave the background on the song as being a one for his children. He wants to be a hero to his kids by the way he lives, who he is as a person, and as a believer in Christ. It was an amazing song...a real tear-jerker. I really related to the song as I want to be a hero to my children. As a side note, recently I found out that I am going to be a dad for the first time, most likely in September. I can't wait!
Its amazing to see a side of a professional athlete that we're not used to seeing. Usually all we ever hear about is an athlete getting into trouble or being suspended for whatever reason. We hear about professional athletes, some of which are some of our favorites or even considered heroes to us, taking illegal substances or steroids. We very rarely ever get to hear about the other side of things. We hardly ever hear about an athlete doing good for his community. Oh the stories are there, believe me, but they are always overshadowed by the negative stories. Why? Because those stories are more juicy to tell and people are more intrigued by them. That's why last night's performance by Smith and Connersvine was that much more special.
Yes, we've heard of athletes coming out and speaking about their faith. Kurt Warner has done it. Jon Kitna actually got fined for doing it when he wore his signature hat with a cross on it to a press conference rather than an NFL sanctioned product. Its awesome to get to see this side of a professional athlete. With all the egos that go around in professional sports, especially in the NFL, getting to hear the heart of someone that represents the sport (even if he is "just a punter"), brings about a great deal of respect for Smith from me. Its not easy to stand up for what you believe in these days, especially when it comes to your faith and religion. Smith is out there spreading a message of hope, love and that God is amazing. He is passionate in what he believes in and isn't afraid to let everyone know about it. As a believer myself, I can appreciate that while Smith may be in the public eye as a pro athlete, he actually chooses to use that "celebrity" to help spread the Message. If you like Christian music, acoustic music, or even just music with a positive message, check out Connersvine. You won't be disappointed.
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