Jim “The Rookie” Morris

Motivational/Inspirational Speaker, Former MLB Pitcher, Author, Coach, and Subject of Disney’s The Rookie

Topics: Inspirational & Motivational, Resilience, Sports, Attitude, Elite Performance, Entertainment, Leadership, Mental Health, Personal Development, Storytelling, Success, Teamwork, Health & Well-Being, Professional Development, Business

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Biography

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.

Videos

Speech TopicsExpand each topic to learn more

DREAM MAKERS: SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THE BEST TO BE YOUR BEST

We all have dream makers and dream killers in our lives. Learn how to differentiate between the two and how to surround yourself with the best people possible to make you the best you can be! Jim takes you through his life story sharing how dream makers and dream killers shaped him into the man he is today. A popular presentation that will keep your audience captivated as they move from laughter to tears and back again. Inspiration and motivation at its best!

REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE

"Remember who you are" teaches audiences about the importance of integrity in all areas of life. Jim tells personal stories about keeping promises, walking the talk, and what you do when no one is watching you at all...makes you who you are. A powerful reminder Jim heard daily from his mentor and grandfather, "remember who you are," helped shape who Jim Morris is today.

FINDING A MENTOR AND BECOMING A LEADER

In "finding a mentor and becoming a leader," Jim focuses on being the mentor for others that you would want for yourself. While being that dream maker for another and by surrounding yourself with the best people to bring out the best in you, you give yourself and others the best chance for success. Jim tells his own story of defeat while believing the wrong kind of people and shares about his successes while surrounded by key people who helped him believe in himself and pushed him to be the man he is today. Finding a Mentor and Becoming a Leader's speaking point, will bring your audience along for an entertaining ride of self-reflection and inspiration to be your best and help others along the way

Testimonials

The event went great; Jim did an amazing job! Started off unsuspecting and ended up giving everyone goosebumps in the end. Great message for this group!

– Inatalere Healthcare Supply Chain Partner

We all really enjoyed hearing from Jim today! I’ve been getting fabulous feedback all day on his session!

– Comcast Technology Solutions (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."

– ANSYS, Inc. (virtual)

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.

– Jim Beland, Thrivent

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.

– Ralph Krauss, Pinecrest Academy of Nevada and Academia Virtual Education

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.

– John Pratt, Greensburg High School

Jim Morris may be the best session ending speaker I've heard in at least a decade of attending these conferences.

– HealthTech

Jim was awesome! Everyone loved him. He was the perfect way to start our day.

– B2W Software

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.

– Farm Credit Services of America

Everyone loved hearing his story, and enjoyed getting to know him. He received a standing ovation.

– Key Bank USA