Something Bigger than Football

Dear Eastern Iowa FCA Family,

On August 21, two football teams walked onto the field as competitors. They left with a reminder that they share an identity far greater than the name on their jerseys.

Following the CCA-Regina football scrimmage, players and coaches from both teams gathered together for a combined huddle. One of our FCA board members shared a simple but powerful message about where we root our identity and mission:

“If you are a Christian, you are no longer a football player or coach. You are a Christian disguised as a football player or coach.”

Football is something these athletes and coaches do. It is not who they are.

Their identity is first and foremost as disciples of Christ. And when we understand that, it changes how we compete, how we lead, how we treat the person across from us and how we use the influence God has given us.

Then, that message became action.

Each player found someone from the opposing team and prayed for them. Competitors stood side by side, praying for one another and recognizing a truth that matters long after the final whistle:

Jesus is much bigger than football.

The huddle closed with prayer over both teams and for the semester ahead.

That moment captures so much of what we hope to see through FCA. Sports create an incredible place to build relationships and influence lives, but the goal has never been simply to develop better athletes or coaches. We want to see coaches and athletes know who they are in Christ, grow as disciples and live out their faith wherever God has placed them.

Would you join us in praying for these athletes and coaches this semester?

Pray that they would:

• Root their identity in Christ, not in their performance, position, wins, or losses.
• Live as disciples of Jesus first, both on and off the field.
• Compete and lead with humility, character, and purpose.
• Encourage one another and grow deeper in their faith.
• Use their influence to point teammates, competitors, and others toward Christ.

We’re praising God for moments like this and praying for many more throughout this school year.

Thank you for praying with us and for being part of what God is doing through FCA.