Motivational/Inspirational Speaker, Former MLB Pitcher, Author, Coach, and Subject of Disney's The Rookie
Contact us for Jim “The Rookie” Morris's speaking fees and availability
Jim Morris is no stranger to big dreams. Since he was five years old, he passionately yearned to play baseball in the major leagues. However, despite all his hard work and determination, a series of unfortunate events and injuries scuttled his career before he was twenty-five. Doctors told him he would never play again.
Then at age thirty-five—after a string of highly implausible events and at an age when most players are retiring—Morris found himself on the mound as a relief pitcher for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His return to the game was so incredible that Disney made his story into a heartwarming film—The Rookie—with a stellar performance by Dennis Quaid. It was released to popular acclaim and was a huge box office success. It won the ESPY for Best Sports Movie in 2002 and the CAMIE award for Character and Morality in Entertainment.
Morris is the author of two books, with his most recent release entitled Dream Makers. It picks up where The Rookie left off. This compelling memoir explores the untapped territory of Morris’ life, including his contentious relationship with his father, his incessant and grueling struggle with pain and addiction, the mentorship with his wise and loving grandfather who kept him grounded, and the resolve and faith that drove him to overcome every tribulation. Dream Makers explores the transformative power of surrounding yourself with the best, most accomplished people possible—inspiring you to overcome life’s obstacles and achieve your dreams.
Morris is a seasoned motivational speaker, traveling the world since 2001. He has participated in such prestigious events as The Million Dollar Round Table, twice. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008, from the Bobby Bragan Youth Foundation. Morris also started a Foundation in his name helping children in underserved communities find hope and inspiration through participation in sports.
"The event went great"Inatalere Healthcare Supply Chain Partner
"Jim did an amazing job! Started off unsuspecting and ended up giving everyone goosebumps in the end. Great message for this group!"Comcast Technology Solutions (virtual)
"We all really enjoyed hearing from Jim today! I’ve been getting fabulous feedback all day on his session!"ANSYS, Inc. (virtual)
"The Americas Team had a famous Indianapolis Colts player do their speech and feedback from one person who attended both EMEA and Americas session said, "The Colts Hall of Famer couldn't hold a candle to Jim's story and delivery.""Jim Beland, Thrivent
"We’ve had Jim talk to our members and guests on a few occasions now, and each time I walk away with an additional nugget or two of wisdom and inspiration. Our guests loved the message, and you don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate Jim’s story. It’s a talk worth listening to again and again."Ralph Krauss, Pinecrest Academy of Nevada and Academia Virtual Education
"Jim is beyond inspirational. He was so kind and patient with all of our students and truly spoke from his heart to all of our students. Our kids that participated were absolutely excited to be able to interact with him and he truly left an indelible mark on their lives with his message of persevering through adversity."John Pratt, Greensburg High School
"The video was nothing short of INCREDIBLE! Jim took so much time and effort into making this such a meaningful message for our students. Please extend my wholehearted THANK YOU to Jim, and a great thanks to you, Lori, for facilitating. This is such a challenging time and it is good to know great people who care for the students in Small Town USA."HealthTech
"Jim Morris may be the best session ending speaker I've heard in at least a decade of attending these conferences."B2W Software
"Jim was awesome! Everyone loved him. He was the perfect way to start our day."Farm Credit Services of America
"You hit it out of the ballpark! Response to our annual attendee survey confirms what people told me: They loved your presentation and found it valuable."Key Bank USA
"Everyone loved hearing his story, and enjoyed getting to know him. He received a standing ovation."
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