Breaking Through Barriers: How to Start FCA on a New Campus

When I think about starting FCA on a new campus, I'm reminded that today's schools can feel like fortresses. There are security measures, protocols, and what sometimes feels like endless barriers to entry. But over my years of ministry, I've learned that these physical barriers aren't the biggest challenge – it's building the relationships and trust that truly open doors. 

Let me share what I've learned about breaking through these barriers and establishing FCA on campuses where it had been absent for a number of years. These insights come from years of experience, including recent successes at schools like Sabinal, where we've seen FCA take root and flourish in new soil. 

Start with a Ministry of Presence 

The first and most crucial step isn't about programs or plans – it's about presence. When I approached a new high school a couple of years ago, I didn't start with grand announcements or elaborate strategies. I simply started showing up at football practice. Then volleyball practice. People would naturally ask, "What are you here for?" That simple question opened the door to share about FCA. 

Being consistently present accomplishes several things: 

- It shows commitment to the school community 

- It allows you to observe and understand the campus culture 

- It creates natural opportunities for conversations 

- It builds trust with administrators, coaches, and students 

- It demonstrates that you're interested in more than just starting a program 

Build Relationships First, Programs Second 

One mistake I've seen people make is trying to start the program before building relationships. In every school where we've successfully established FCA, it started with relationships. This means: 

1. Getting to know the coaches and athletic staff 

2. Learning about the school's existing culture and programs 

3. Understanding the specific needs of that campus 

4. Building trust with administrators 

5. Connecting with student leaders who might be interested 

Be Led by the Holy Spirit 

Sometimes opportunities arise in unexpected ways. Take Sabinal, for instance. They weren't even on my regular schedule six months ago, but someone reached out asking how to start FCA. Because I was available and ready to respond, we were able to help them begin their journey. This taught me that while we need to plan, we also need to remain flexible and open to God's leading. 

Mobilize Local Support 

Starting FCA on a new campus isn't a one-person job. We need what we call "mobilized volunteers" – people from different backgrounds who can relate to the specific context of each school. These volunteers: 

- Complete our Ministry Leadership application 

- Watch our training video 

- Become certified to serve 

- Help establish and maintain the program 

- Connect with the local church community 

Start Small but Think Long-term 

When starting on a new campus, it's tempting to want everything to happen at once. But sustainable growth usually starts small. At Medina Valley High School, we've seen how this works. Medina Valley is one of the standout high schools that actively fosters a student leadership team, which reflects our ultimate goal of cultivating strong leadership across every campus to lead our FCA Huddles. We began with basic huddles, then gradually developed student leaders through our SALT (Student Athlete Leadership Team) training program. Now those students are leading their own Bible studies and mentoring others. 

Navigate Administrative Requirements 

Modern schools have specific requirements for outside organizations. Here's what I've learned about working within these structures: 

- Always work through proper channels 

- Respect school policies and procedures 

- Build relationships with administrative staff 

- Maintain clear communication about your activities 

- Follow all security protocols 

- Be patient with the process 

Train Student Leaders 

One of the most effective ways to establish a lasting FCA presence is to develop student leaders. This involves: 

- Identifying potential student leaders 

- Providing them with training and resources 

- Supporting them as they lead their peers 

- Creating opportunities for them to grow in leadership 

- Helping them understand FCA's mission and values 

Connect with Local Churches 

Remember, FCA isn't meant to be the church – we're meant to partner with local churches. When starting on a new campus, it's crucial to: 

- Build relationships with local church leaders 

- Create pathways for students to connect with local churches 

- Partner with church youth programs 

- Coordinate with church volunteers who want to serve 

- Keep churches informed about campus opportunities 

Measure Success Differently 

Success in starting FCA on a new campus isn't always measured by numbers. Sometimes success looks like: 

- One student deciding to lead a Bible study 

- A coach opening their office for morning prayer 

- A handful of athletes meeting regularly to study God's Word 

- Students asking questions about faith 

- Building trust with school administration 

Stay Committed for the Long Haul 

Starting FCA on a new campus is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires: 

- Consistent presence over time 

- Patience with slow growth 

- Flexibility to adapt to changing needs 

- Perseverance through challenges 

- Trust in God's timing 

Remember, every established FCA program started somewhere. Each successful huddle began with someone showing up, building relationships, and remaining faithful to the vision of seeing every coach and athlete enter into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and the church. 

If you're considering starting FCA on your campus, don't let the barriers intimidate you. Start with presence, build relationships, gather support, and trust God's timing. The fortress walls of modern schools might seem daunting, but they're no match for persistent prayer, genuine relationships, and faithful service.