Fellowship of Christian Athletes – Baseball by The Letters https://www.baseballbytheletters.com Hand-written memories from those who lived The Game! Thu, 27 Oct 2016 14:18:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 22759191 George Kell Believed in Fellow Hall of Famers Brooks Robinson, Branch Rickey https://www.baseballbytheletters.com/2010/09/04/george-kell-believed-in-fellow-hall-of-famers-brooks-robinson-branch-rickey-2/ https://www.baseballbytheletters.com/2010/09/04/george-kell-believed-in-fellow-hall-of-famers-brooks-robinson-branch-rickey-2/#respond Sun, 05 Sep 2010 05:12:00 +0000 http://www.baseballbytheletters.com/2010/09/04/george-kell-believed-in-fellow-hall-of-famers-brooks-robinson-branch-rickey-2/ Read more]]>

Back in 1997, I wrote to Hall of Famer George Kell to ask of two baseball personalities he befriended.

First, I wanted to know about his dealings with famed general manager Branch Rickey. I had read that Kell helped Rickey with the early formation of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. A few players who faced contract battles with Rickey complained how hard-nosed “The Mahatma” was in negotiations.

Secondly, I praised Kell for being a role model for fellow Arkansas native Brooks Robinson.

Kell replied:

“Thomas — Mr. Rickey got me involved in the FCA back in the early ’50s, and I found him to be just what he was advertised to be — a fine, outstanding Christian gentleman.

If I had anything to do with the formation of Brooks Robinson, I’m proud and flattered. He comes from a great background and is a fine role model.

Sincerely,

George Kell”

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