Winning is Our Goal, Not Our Purpose: Redefining Success in Coaching
Gospel Imperative
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." - Colossians 3:23
In the high-pressure world of competitive sports, success is typically measured by championships, win-loss records, and statistical achievements. But what if we've been defining success too narrowly? What if winning games is merely a goal, not our ultimate purpose?
This profound shift in perspective came from a coach whose life was transformed through the ministry of presence. Once drifting from his faith following a difficult divorce, this coach rediscovered his spiritual foundation through consistent encouragement and a simple challenge to reconnect with Scripture.
In his own words: "Winning is our goal, but not our purpose. Our purpose is to affect the lives of those around us in a positive manner so that winning is achieved everyday, not just when a scoreboard dictates an outcome."
This statement captures the essence of what coaching should be—not merely about athletic achievement, but about life transformation. When we coach with this mindset, victories extend far beyond Friday night lights and championship trophies.
The Ministry of Presence plays a crucial role in this transformation. Simply showing up consistently—at practices, games, and in between—creates opportunities for meaningful connection. This reliable presence builds trust that opens doors for deeper conversations and mentorship.
For this particular coach, what began as a tentative step back toward faith—reading Scripture for just five minutes a day—grew into spiritual renewal that affected every aspect of his life. His reconnection with God's word provided clarity during difficult times and transformed how he approached his coaching responsibilities.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) facilitates these transformational relationships through its strategy to "engage, equip and empower" coaches. By pouring into coaches who have daily influence over young athletes, FCA multiplies its impact exponentially. One transformed coach can influence dozens or even hundreds of young people throughout their career.
When coaches embrace the idea that their purpose transcends winning, they teach athletes that their value isn't determined by performance. They model how to handle both victory and defeat with grace. Most importantly, they demonstrate that building character and faith provides a foundation that lasts long after athletic careers end.
As this coach now serves at a different school, his spiritual growth continues to overflow into encouraging posts on social media and regular expressions of gratitude for the mentorship that changed his path. The impact continues to ripple outward—proof that when we redefine success in coaching, the victories truly never end.
Heart Check
How might your definition of "winning" change if you saw your coaching role as an opportunity to reveal God's glory in every interaction?
In what ways could you make yourself more consistently available to those you influence, embracing the "ministry of presence" in your leadership role?
What simple challenge could you offer someone you're mentoring that might spark their spiritual growth, just as reading Scripture for five minutes daily transformed this coach?
Join the Mission
The impact of coaching extends far beyond athletic achievement when guided by eternal purpose. Through your support of my ministry with FCA, you can help transform coaches who will influence countless young people across generations. Consider how you might invest—through prayer, financial giving, or serving—to help coaches discover that their ultimate purpose transcends any scoreboard. Together, we can redefine winning for coaches and athletes across our communities.
Support my FCA Ministry and help us open more doors that only God can unlock!