Summary

Be inspired by the story of Kevin Atlas (formerly Laue), whose faith and perseverance helped him become an NCAA Division I basketball player, despite being born with only one arm.

Even before entering the world, Kevin Atlas was a fighter. He should have died in childbirth, as the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck twice, but he survived because his left arm was in the middle of it, allowing blood to flow to his brain. But since circulation was cut off in that arm, he was born with his left arm ending just below his elbow.

GET IN THE GAME is Kevin’s story of transformation: Moving from anger to joy. From embarrassment to confidence. From the sidelines and wishing his life was different to getting in the game and showing who he is. Kevin’s arduous journey to earning a scholarship to Manhattan College in New York City and becoming the first NCAA Division I basketball player missing a limb has given him keen insights to help anyone who feels trapped and defeated by less-than-perfect circumstances, whether physical, mental, or environmental.

Kevin doesn’t encourage readers to simply accept and live with their challenges, hurts, and losses. He spurs them on to believe any weakness can, in reality, become the one thing that propels them to achieve their greatest potential. As Kevin has learned throughout his life, you can’t win if you don’t get in the game!

Review

As I was reading Get in the Game, I had to double-check the age of the author because I was astounded by his maturity and wisdom. Not to say it can’t happen but for someone who’s experienced the life he has so far, I’m truly inspired and connected to the message he wanted to deliver with his book.

So many people who are completely free from physical or emotional handicaps complain about how terrible their life is. I often say when I hear that to put yourself in the shoes of someone who has a challenge and live their life for a day. If they did, they’d be surprised at the fulfilling purpose of reaching a goal in a day or in a lifetime that they experience. When I read Kevin’s story, there isn’t anything anyone can complain about because where’s there a will, there’s a way.

Kevin Atlas, became the first one-armed basketball player, to play in NCAA Division I. I’m not a basketball fan but I know that’s a very big deal. He had some challenges growing up that included the death of a parent, bullying, and but most important the loss of part of his arm. He’d admit he had some moments that he retreated inward but developed the drive and courage to go after a dream that seemed unreachable but he made.

What I loved about the book was getting to know his background and how he was able to build confidence and motivation to succeed in all areas of his life. His journey is inspiring and encouraging words and advice he shares to help others get off the bench and “get in the game.” What he’s overcome is a testament to his faith and commitment to living his best life. Just because he has a physical disability doesn’t take away who you can be or meant to be. If you’ve ever felt defeated, this is one that will uplift and encourage you to find a way. When you put yourself in a pair of shoes such as these, there are no excuses that you can’t soar.

Overall, I thought the book was inspiring and a wonderful read. He presented some insightful commentary on the journey of his life to reaching his dreams blended with some encouraging advice goal minded aspirations that can influence your own. Anyone can read this and feel uplifted but I think a young reader could benefit from reading his story because it can have a positive impact on their life. I’d recommend checking this one out.

#Sponsored by Faith Words