I Felt the Cheers

Praise for Curtis Pride and I Felt the Cheers: “Curtis’s entire story is one that will inspire and encourage everyone. We remain so proud that one of our own has accomplished so much while demonstrating such class and character. You will enjoy learning about all of it here.” —Scott Van Pelt, Sportscaster and Host, SportsCenter on ESPN “Curtis’s journey, detailed in this inspiring memoir, showcases his ability to overcome challenges and emerge as a remarkable role model. I Felt the Cheers takes readers on an emotional journey, from adversity to moments of pure joy and love for the sport of baseball. It’s a fantastic read that captures Curtis’s spirit and resilience.” —Michelle Kwan, Five-time World Figure Skating Champion “Curtis Pride did not hear all that we heard yesterday. He still got the better of the day. We did not feel what he felt.” —Mike Lupica, New York Daily News “Curtis Pride’s remarkable accomplishments show how, with perseverance, one can triumph against all odds.  As the parent of a deaf adult son, it is bittersweet to read about the struggles and victories that come with following your dream. I Felt the Cheers is a deeply moving, candid account that goes far beyond the world of sports. It’s a compelling read for anyone looking for an understanding of determination and inclusivity.  I highly recommend this book to any parent raising a child with any disability. Curtis’s journey proves that with a supportive community, each and every child can overcome their challenges and pursue their passion.” —Holly Drezner, parent of Justin Drezner “He was the most loved guy you ever want to have on your team.  He is everywhere he goes.” —Bobby Cox, National Baseball Hall of Fame Member and Manager, Atlanta Braves 1990–2010 “He’s a man. I don’t know what better compliment I can say about him than that.” —Joe Torre, National Baseball Hall of Fame Member and Manager, New York Yankees 1996–2007   “Curtis is a tremendous athlete. He’s got a great baseball mind. He loves the game and knows the game, and that’s the bottom line. To us, he’s a ballplayer. He’s not a deaf ballplayer.” —Mike Scioscia, Manager, Los Angeles Angels 2000–2018   Pride spoke of the honor of wearing the Yankee pinstripes and playing with Derek Jeter and Roger Clemens and so many other superstars, which made one thing odd yesterday. He seemed oblivious to just how much his new teammates should be honored to be playing with him.” —Lawrence Rocca, Newark Star-Ledger“In I Felt the Cheers Curtis Pride showcases why it will always be ability NOT disability that prevails.” —Mickey Carolan, Speaker, Author of Mom Dad Not Hear

Curtis Pride is an MLB Ambassador for Inclusion and former Major League Baseball outfielder. In 1993 he became MLB’s first deaf player since Dick Sipek in 1945 and went on to play in more than 420 games over an 11-season career with the Montreal Expos, Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels, and New York Yankees. Prior to his baseball career, he played soccer for the United States at the 1985 FIFA U-16 World Championship in Beijing, China, and was the starting point guard on the basketball team at William & Mary, where he earned a degree in finance. The recipient of the Henry Viscardi Achievement Award and the Tony Conigliaro Award, he lives with his wife and two children in Florida.

Doug Ward is a writer who has worked in media relations for the Los Angeles Angels, Anaheim Ducks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Los Angeles Rams. He received his MFA from UCLA and has contributed to ESPN The Magazine, ESPN.com, The Hockey News, and NHL.com.