Bold Faith in Action: FCA's Approach to Transforming Young Athletes
Gospel Imperative
God calls us not just to be hearers of the word but doers as well, stepping beyond our comfort zones to make ourselves available for His purpose. As James 1:22 reminds us, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."
Billy Graham famously said, "A coach will impact more people in one year than the average person will in an entire lifetime." This profound truth forms the foundation of FCA's strategic approach: ministering "To and Through the Coach."
At FCA, we pursue a vision centered on our E3 Strategy—Engage, Equip, Empower—a discipleship model designed to help coaches and athletes know and grow in Christ and lead others to do the same.
Engage
Ministry of presence is where it begins. Simply showing up—at practices, games, and school events—creates natural opportunities for relationships to develop. When you consistently make yourself available with no agenda other than to serve, trust builds naturally. Then, engage them in the word of God.
I've learned that the more I go, the more relationships I build with those people there. And I am hopeful that my persistent presence will lead to student-led teams at these high schools in their FCA Huddle."
Equip
Once relationships form, we equip coaches with biblical truth and resources. This often begins with one-on-one conversations, walking alongside them through challenges, both personal and professional.
I witnessed this transformation with a football coach who had stepped away from his faith after a difficult divorce. Through consistent presence, I challenged him: "Start reading the Bible, just five minutes a day." Months later, he texted: "I've started reading my Bible regularly, and it's helping with clarity in my life. For that, I cannot thank you enough."
Our primary focus ministers first to coaches' hearts, marriages, and families—because we know healthy coaches create healthy environments for athletes.
Empower
When coaches are equipped, they become multipliers. They take ownership of their faith and begin pouring into others—fellow coaches, team members, and athlete leaders.
The coach I mentioned now leads huddles at his new school, influencing a whole new generation. His social media posts reflect his renewed faith journey—all because someone made themselves available. This creates a powerful ripple effect, as coaches have daily contact with dozens of young people.
The more we can pour into coaches, the more time the coaches have with those kids. This is how we reach more students and create exponential impact for Christ's kingdom. We are seeking to reach EVERY Coach and Athlete in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.
Heart Check
Where am I currently spending my time? Am I merely studying God's word, or am I being a doer of the word by making myself available to others?
What comfort zones is God calling me to step out of so that He can use me more effectively in the lives of others?
How can I implement the ministry of presence in my daily life, even in small ways like encouraging a server at a restaurant or offering to pray for someone?
Your Opportunity
The battle for the hearts and minds of our youth is real and urgent. Through FCA, we have unprecedented access to reach young people where they are—on fields and courts, in locker rooms and classrooms. Your investment—through prayer, financial support, or serving—directly impacts the next generation of leaders.
Don't wait. The time is now to spread the Gospel. Support my FCA Ministry and help us open more doors that only God can unlock!