Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Athletes, You Have Influence. As athletes, we hold influence—on our teams, in our schools, and in our communities. But have you ever thought about how God has placed you exactly where you are to glorify Him and impact others? Here’s how we can live out our faith in sports: ?? Words: Speak encouragement and hope, even in the heat of competition. Let your words build others up! (Ephesians 4:29) ? Actions: Play with integrity, giving your best effort on and off the field. Remember, God sees your heart and every move. (Galatians 6:9) ?? Attitude: Lead with love—love for God, your teammates, and your opponents. Shine His light in all you do. (Matthew 22:37) Your influence matters. Live in a way that points others to Christ through your words, actions, and attitude. Let’s honor Him in the game and beyond! #fca247 #ready #influence #athlete ?? https://lnkd.in/g65P9xty

Building Champions On and Off the Field ???? Aaron Hughes, a music teacher and former college lacrosse player, began volunteering with FCA Lacrosse in Rochester, New York, inspired by his love for Jesus and his son’s involvement in the sport. Starting with simple tasks like distributing jerseys, Hughes quickly stood out for his servant's heart and Christ-like approach. Upstate Lacrosse Director Sol Bliss recognized Hughes’ gift for connecting with players and families and invited him to coach. Hughes embraced the role, weaving biblical principles into practices and fostering an environment of faith, encouragement, and teamwork. “It’s about building the champion, not just winning championships,” Hughes said, emphasizing leadership, selflessness, and boldness in faith. Parents and players praise Hughes for creating a positive, family-like atmosphere where athletes feel accepted and supported. He teaches that lacrosse is more than a game—it is an opportunity to glorify God. Hughes is sparking transformation through his faith-centered coaching, helping student-athletes grow as leaders and followers of Christ. “Sometimes a spark leads to a fire,” he said. “I see how Christ uses me to spread His Word in my community.” ?? https://lnkd.in/gj9wvrFr #ministryimpact #lacrosse #fcateam #fcalacrosse

Pat Bailey, a veteran baseball coach with a 42-year career, has always seen his job as more than just coaching—it’s a mission to build men. From leading George Fox University to a Division III national championship to helping Oregon State win the 2018 NCAA title, Bailey prioritized character, humility, and faith in his players. In 2020, after enduring health challenges and leaving coaching, Bailey transitioned to full-time ministry with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Now 67, he serves as FCA’s Multi-Area Director for Oregon’s Williamette Valley, mentoring coaches and athletes to grow as disciples of Christ. Bailey’s faith remains his compass. Inspired by Matthew 9:37-38, he’s driven to expand FCA’s reach and impact young lives. Though he’s left the dugout, his mission continues: building the next generation of leaders on and off the field. ?? Read full story: https://lnkd.in/gEM-HPug #baseball #fcateam #ministryimpact

Jesus’ life redefines true winning. While worldly success often measures achievements, Jesus’ example focuses on fulfilling God’s purpose. Like coaches who dedicate time to building successful teams, Jesus invested in His followers, guiding them to live with purpose, humility, and service. Jesus understood His mission and embraced His calling to serve God, even through sacrifice. He loved and served others, focused on developing His disciples, and stayed aligned with God’s will. Winning in life, therefore, isn’t about personal accomplishments, but about fulfilling God’s purpose and impacting others for Christ. True success is living, leading, and loving like Jesus. How does looking at the life of Jesus inspire you to adjust your way of competing and living? ?? https://lnkd.in/gqsnMeFi #FCA247 #Ready #RedefiningWinning

In 2022, Savannah Area FCA in Georgia partnered with a local coach to host girls' flag football tournaments, sparking the creation of the FCA South Elite Club. The program quickly grew, adding two U14 and two U18 teams that compete in local and national tournaments, with some players already being recruited for college. Athletes, coaches, and families experience more than just competition—they bond through shared faith, prayer, and FCA’s values of “Christ, Camaraderie, and Character.” Coaches like Ashleigh Lund, Nick Grassi, and Drew McIlrath emphasize spiritual growth, teamwork, and giving God glory on and off the field, making FCA Flag Football a transformative experience for all involved. ?? Read more: https://lnkd.in/gGS5YsAt ?? Photos courtesy of FCA South Elite #MinistryImpact #FCA #FCATeam #Flagfootball #Savannah

Today, we honor and thank all the brave men and women who have served our country. We are grateful for your courage and your commitment. ???? #VeteransDay

Happy 70th Birthday, FCA! ?? Today, we celebrate God’s incredible work through the influence of coaches and athletes over the past seven decades. To everyone who has been part of this amazing journey—thank you for being a part of God’s miraculous vision. May He continue to work through us, moving in hearts and lives as we step forward into what He has planned for the next 70 years! #FCA #FCATeam

?? Celebrate 70 Years of FCA! ?? We’re marking seven incredible decades of ministry, and YOU have a chance to own a piece of history. ??? Enter to win this vintage FCA jacket – a throwback to our roots and a tribute to everyone who has journeyed with us. Click here to enter: https://lnkd.in/gSr8V7in ? Don’t wait – giveaway ends November 18! #FCA70 #WinWithFCA #Giveaway #VintageStyle

"Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory." – Psalm 115:1 This past month, FCA Ventura County welcomed Olympic champion and world-record holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone to Fields of Faith in Moorpark, CA! Sydney shared her powerful journey from athlete to ambassador of Christ, reflecting on the moment she surrendered her life to Him. "I used to find my identity in track and field, but now my foundation is in Christ," she said. "My goal isn't just gold medals; it's to glorify Him." Sydney encouraged everyone to find strength in their faith, even in the face of trials, and to trust that our true worth is found in Christ alone. ?? https://bit.ly/48Cxz2U ??@venturacountyfca #FieldsOfFaith #FCA #SydneyMcLaughlinLevrone #FaithOverFear #RunForHisGlory #Psalm115

Meet FCA Kenya leader James Otundo, a former star athlete turned coach, who has learned to let go and let God lead. Growing up in Nairobi’s Kawangware slum, basketball shaped James' faith and fueled his passion for helping others. When a severe knee injury sidelined his dreams, he discovered his true calling—coaching youth not just in sports but in life. Now, through Fellowship of Christian Athletes, James is transforming lives on and off the court, equipping coaches and leading young athletes to know Christ. "Coaching has become my platform for sharing God’s love," James says, living out Psalm 27:13-14 as he guides others to find hope and purpose in Christ. #ministyimpact #fcateam ?? https://bit.ly/4hjBUMJ