Feb 24 - 27 2025
Catersource + The Special Event 2025 – Opening Keynote Will Guidara – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Broward County Convention Center
Jim Abbott is a former Major League Baseball pitcher whose story of perseverance, adaptability, and triumph continues to inspire audiences around the world.
Born without a right hand, Jim Abbott defied expectations at every turn, proving that obstacles are simply opportunities in disguise. From leading Team USA to Olympic gold to pitching a no-hitter for the New York Yankees, Abbott’s journey is a testament to determination, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. Today, he shares his story with audiences across industries, offering powerful lessons on overcoming adversity, adapting to challenges, and pushing past limitations to achieve greatness. Jim Abbott is available to be booked for corporate and private events. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Jim Abbott’s fees.
Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group at 215-510-6607 to book Jim Abbott for corporate or private events, keynote speeches, workshops, fireside chats, motivational speaking, or virtual appearances. Our agency will work directly with your organization and our keynote speakers to create an unforgettable event.
The Mollie Plotkin Group is the leading keynote speakers agency and entertainment bureau bringing excitement to audiences, clients, and employees. We represent subject-matter experts in every possible field, so whether we’re your partner in creating a memorable meeting or your meeting planner’s secret weapon in securing the perfect keynote speaker, we’re in this with you.
Jim Abbott was born in Flint, Michigan, with only one hand, but his parents instilled in him a mindset of resilience and determination. Encouraged to participate in sports from a young age, Jim defied expectations and quickly developed intoan elite athlete. While others saw limitations, he saw possibilities—spending hours perfecting his unique pitching technique and proving that success is defined by effort, not circumstance.
Jim’s remarkable abilities earned him a scholarship to the University of Michigan, where he became one of the nation’s top pitchers. In 1987, he made history by becoming the first U.S. pitcher in 25 years to defeat Cuba on their home turf.The following year, he led Team USA to a gold medal at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, cementing his status as a rising star in baseball.
In 1989, Jim achieved what many deemed impossible—he made the leap directly from college baseball to the major leagues, skipping the minor leagues entirely. After the California Angels selected Jim with the 8th pick of the 1988 MLB draft, he quickly established himself as a top-tier pitcher, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike. Throughout his 10-year career, Jim played for the Angels, Yankees, White Sox, and Brewers, but his crowning achievement came on September 4, 1993, when he threw a no-hitter for the New York Yankees against the Cleveland Indians. His legacy in baseball is not just one of skill but perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering belief in the possible.
Since retiring from professional baseball, Jim has dedicated his life to motivating others. As a keynote speaker, he shares his journey of overcoming obstacles, adapting to challenges, and striving for excellence. His message is universal—whether in sports, business, or life, success is about resilience, preparation, and the willingness to embrace adversity. He has inspired Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations with his powerful storytelling and down-to-earth approach.
Find out how to hire Jim Abbott to appear at your next event. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group to inquire about Jim Abbott’s availability and cost. When booking Jim Abbott for an event, we need to know the type of venue and location the event will take place. Jim Abbott is a popular choice for corporate events, private events, and virtual events. So, you can click the Check Availability button or contact us and an MPG Jim Abbott booking agent will get back to you within 48 hours.
How much to book Jim Abbott depends on the type of event. So, the cost to hire Jim Abbott for corporate or private events is available by contacting a Mollie Plotkin Group Agent. Notably, Jim Abbott is available for conferences, festivals, private parties, and events. Just contact the Mollie Plotkin Group and tell the booking agent the proposed date, time, and location.
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Abbott knows that to keep moving forward, we must be willing to adapt. Using ADAPT as an acronym, he breaks down five strategies that help individuals and teams achieve their fullest potential.
A – Adjustability: Embracing change as a constant and learning to pivot when necessary.
D – Determination: Staying committed to goals despite obstacles and setbacks.
A – Accountability: Owning one’s actions and responsibilities as part of a team.
P – Perseverance: Maintaining focus and effort in the face of challenges.
T – Trust: Building confidence in oneself and in the support of others.
Jim Abbott’s speeches go beyond sports—they are about the mindset that drives success. His inspiring keynotes challenge audiences to redefine what’s possible and to push past perceived limitations with courage and conviction.
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