Dave Dravecky

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5 out of 5

Former Professional Baseball Player; Cancer Survivor, Arm Amputee & Author of "Comeback"

Travels From Travels From:
Phoenix, AZ, USA
Speaking Fee Speaking Fee:
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Dave Dravecky Biography

Dave Dravecky, a former professional baseball player and cancer survivor, has a story of finding hope, courage, and perseverance in the midst of dark and overwhelming uncertainty. In 1988, he was not only a family man but also at the peak of his career, playing for the San Diego Padres and the San Francisco Giants. His opening-day victory over the Dodgers was overshadowed later that fall by the discovery of a desmoid tumor in his left arm and the subsequent removal of half of the deltoid muscle. Despite this, Dravecky made a highly publicized return to Major League Baseball in 1989, defying the odds and doctors' expectations of "Short of a miracle, you’ll never pitch again," he pitched a 4-3 win for the San Francisco Giants.

Unfortunately, Dravecky's triumphant return was short-lived. In his second start of the year, he threw "...the pitch that could be heard round the world." His arm broke in two, effectively ending his season. As he tumbled to the ground, his mind filled with doubt and fear. The cancer returned, leading to his decision to retire from professional baseball in November of 1989. In 1991, his left arm, shoulder blade, and the left side of his collarbone had to be amputated to prevent the cancer from spreading.

After retiring from baseball, Dravecky channeled his experiences into a new career as a motivational speaker and author. The challenges he faced in the years following his retirement have taught him valuable lessons that he now shares with audiences of all ages and sizes across the country. Dravecky has written three books about his battles with cancer and his comeback attempt. His personal experiences have also taught him to evaluate life—challenging himself as well as others to press on towards their future goals.

In addition to his speaking engagements, Dravecky's busy schedule also includes public appearances, and he continues to inspire through the encouragement and hope he has discovered along the way. In recognition of his spirit and leadership throughout his journey, Dravecky was awarded the Willie Mac Award and the Hutch Award in 1989. His life and resilience have even inspired a song called "Dave Dravecky" by Cousin Wolf in 2021.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 10/04/2024.

Dave Dravecky Speaking Topics

  • Importance of Being Part of a Team

  • Faith

  • Authentic Living

  • Overcoming Adversity

  • Value of Relationship

  • Surviving Cancer

Dave Dravecky Videos

  • Dave Dravecky - Oklahoma Christian Q&A
    Dave Dravecky spoke with President John deSteiguer during the former Major League Baseball all-star pitcher's visit to Oklahoma Christian University...
  • Dave Dravecky - My Story
    Listen to Dave as he shares his personal story about baseball, the World Series, cancer, losing his arm and what truly matters in his life. Video...
  • Interview with Dave Dravecky, Former MLB Pitcher, Author, and Speaker
    Clay Koerner and Marty Pay Interview Dave Dravecky, Former MLB Pitcher, Author, and Motivational Speaker, on Takin' Care of Business, The Clay and...

Dave Dravecky Books

  • Called Up: Stories of Life and Faith from the Great Game of Baseball
    Called Up: Stories of Life and Faith from the Great Game of Baseball
  • Do Not Lose Heart: Meditations of Encouragement and Comfort
    Do Not Lose Heart: Meditations of Encouragement and Comfort
  • Play Ball
    Play Ball
  • Comeback
    Comeback

Speaker Lists Featuring Dave Dravecky

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  • What topics does Dave Dravecky speak about?

  • Where does Dave Dravecky travel from?

    Dave Dravecky generally travels from Phoenix, AZ, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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Dave Dravecky is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Importance of Being Part of a Team, Faith, Authentic Living, Overcoming Adversity, Value of Relationship and Surviving Cancer. The estimated speaking fee range to book Dave Dravecky for your event is $5,000 - $10,000. Dave Dravecky generally travels from Phoenix, AZ, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Rudy Ruettiger, Jim Morris, Rocky Bleier, Shawn Harper and Josh Davis. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Dave Dravecky for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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