The Competing for Christ Podcast

To all the listeners, guests, supporters, and fans of the Competing for Christ Podcast, thank you.Jesus loves you, and He will fight for you no matter what.

Today we are talking to Andy Dooley, former football player, pastor, fitness professional, and in-game host of the Seattle Seahawks. It was an honor getting to talk with Andy today as we get to discuss everything that he has learned as someone that has been around sports for so long. He is someone that has used his platform for good, and gets to connect with people every day.Something else that we get to talk about today is a very special project that Andy has been working on: Andy's new 100-Day Devotional Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose coming out on July 30th. We get to deep dive into some of the key topics that arise in the book, and things that athletes face every single day. Throughout our discussion, we get to talk about:How faith, family, and football changed Andy's lifeUsing an opportunity to grow his love for football and peopleHow he has dealt with failure in his lifeWhy he wrote Lead with Faith, Play with PurposeRelying on Christ while going through really hard thingsHow to get Andy's new devotionalGet Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose coming out on July 30th!Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

What does it mean to you to keep going? To some, it could mean keep grinding through on the field or court in order to achieve something. To others, it could mean that you need to keep pushing in life to get to where you want to be, both physically and mentally. For Pat O'Malley, this phrase “Keep Going”, means even more.Pat is a former collegiate baseball player and coach, now works for NCSA, and is a host of the Keep Going Podcast, shining a light on mental health from an athletes point of view. Pat joins us today to share what he's learned as someone who has been both a player and a coach, and both as a Christian and as someone that did not follow Christ while he was an athlete.Today, we discuss:Not letting sports define who you areHow Pat relates to athletes from lessons he learned in the pastWhy outside factors play such a big role in athletes' mental healthHow to balance physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual healthBeing a Christian in sports - advantage or disadvantage?Listen to the Keep Going Podcast now!Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY.Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Steve Anderson is the Athletes in Action Campus Director for Grand Valley State University. As he has poured intro athletes for years now, he lives out what it truly means to disciple athletes through relationship building, community, and servant leadership. Throughout his life, he has endured a lot of hardship and struggles, but through it all has found how God has used those trying times for good.Steve joins the show today to talk about his unique role at GVSU, his love for sports ministry, and how he has seen God move on GVSU's campus. During our discussion today, we talk about: The best part of working with young people through sportsHow athletes can know that God has a job for them for His kingdom, even outside of sportsWhy he started the blog Shepherding the SidelinesHow he's seen God move through losses, on and off the fieldWhat he's learned about longevity in his ministry efforts and lifeBuy Stephanie Burdette's new devotional, Knowing God's Love; Given Not Earned.Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Coach Kurt Hines is the Head Football Coach of Coronado High School (CA), a Motivational Speaker, and Influencer. As someone that has been coaching for decades now, he truly embodies what it means to live out your calling as a Christian in sports. Coach Hines is extremely motivational, not just to his players but to everyone he comes in contact with. Throughout our conversation today, listen as we discuss: How God has used football as a ministry in Coach Hines' lifeThe most difficult part in continuing to evolve as a coachHow he sees his players as children of GodWhat's harder: keeping the faith while losing, or humbling yourself when winningA unique story of a player that impacted millions Why he thinks God called him to be a coachWant some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

In sport and in life, there are things that you can't control, but Christ calls you to look to him in those moments. James 4 says that “You do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” We have so much hope in Christ though. He's our ONLY hope. And for Laurèn Schiek, she's had to rely on his plan a lot recently. Lauren played softball at Santa Clara and Abilene Christian University, and although she had success, her time as a collegiate athlete came with many trials, one of which came her senior year. Today's conversation includes:How Laurèn has seen God move in her lifeWhat a diagnosis meant for her softball career and futureReminding herself that softball is secondary to JesusWhat college sports are truly likeHow impactful the For His Glory Podcast has been on her lifeMake sure to check out the For His Glory Podcast here!Buy Stephanie Burdette's new devotional, Knowing God's Love; Given Not Earned.Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Today we are talking to Ashley Trierweiler, someone that has achieved a lot as a Division 1 softball player. At both schools she has went to, Santa Clara and Grand Canyon University, here are just a couple of her achievements: WAC championWAC player of the yearAll-American All-Conference (multiple times)Number 1 in hits in the nation this year (Number 2 last year)Ashley has done a lot in her career, but something that we focus on today is how achievements, whether you win something amazing or if you don't achieve anything at all, don't define you as a Christian athlete. On this episode, Ashley and Ken discuss:What softball has meant to Ashley throughout her lifeHow she doesn't let the stats, records, and wins define who she isWays she's used her platform as a D1 athlete to show Christ to othersHow Christ has used success in her lifeWhat she hopes people remember about her softball careerWant some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." - 2 Corinthians 5:17. When you invite God into your life, He will change how you speak, how you act, how you play sports, and how you live. How have you seen that happen in your life? Have you experienced that change? For Dra Rogers, he can say that God has completely changed how he lives and how he coaches the game of basketball. Dra is the head basketball coach at Verrado High School in Arizona and also works with FCA Arizona West Valley. As someone that has coached both as a Christian and as someone who was not, he understands what it means to have Christ truly change the person that you are.Today, we sit down with Dra to discuss: How sports shaped Dra before coming to know ChristThe biggest difference in how he coaches now vs. when he wasn't a believerA crazy story of him starting his work with FCAHow to connect with athletes today through JesusThe balance of exercising free will vs. letting God be in controlNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Whether we are aware of this or not, God has a purpose for every single door he opens and shuts. What he does may not make sense to us in the moment, but when you look back, you can see why God brought you through the things that He did.The same thing can be said for Caleb Irving. Caleb is a former University of Indianapolis football player and diver, and I had the chance to be in small groups with him with Athletes in Action. Today he joins the show to discuss this topic of how God has used opened and closed doors in his life, thoughts on his time as an athlete in multiple sports, and if he regrets anything that he's gone through. Discussion points for our discussion:The biggest lesson Caleb learned during his time as an athleteWhat he's learned about God closing some doors to open othersThe hardest part about letting God be in controlHow to remember that Jesus is the only door that has an eternal impactBeing stewards of the Word that God has given usNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Everyone should be advocates for athletes taking care of their spiritual and mental health, maybe even more so than physical health. It's crucial to have belief in your abilities in practices, games, and life. But what happens when that belief and confidence in yourself turns into something more than that? What if it turns into becoming cocky and leaning too much on your own talents rather than trusting in God's power, strength, and timing?Ray Santiago, author, founder of Renewed Mind Performance, Sports Psychology specialist, and former baseball player joins the show again today to talk about building confidence that leans on God's abilities, not just yours. Along with discussing some principles in his new book, The Pillar B's, his conversation dives into:A misconception that athletes have when it comes to believing in themselvesWhat/Who Ray would recommend athletes watch or study when trying to gain confidenceThe biggest difference between someone that has confidence and someone that is cockyHaving confidence that doesn't turn into cockinessHow we can have confidence in Jesus over ourselvesOrder Ray's new book, The Pillar B's, NOW: https://www.amazon.com/Pillar-Bs-Transform-Biggest-Critic-ebook/dp/B0BPK6GXCRNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Today we are talking to Founder and Director of Playing 4 Eternity (P4E) Sports Ministry Don Weyrick. Through this ministry, Don has reached hundreds, if not thousands, of people through the game of basketball. Don is someone that has let Jesus use him for the sake of the Gospel in sports by running games, tournaments, and leagues that include everyone, no matter who you are.As you will soon find out, Don just started working with our friends over at CEDE Sports as well! But today, Don shows us all that no matter what you've done in your life, your past doesn't define you. As a matter of fact, Christ may even use your past to help someone else's present or future.Listen as we discuss:Don's testimony and love for basketball Where the idea of P4E Sports Ministry came fromUsing his past experiences to relate to athletesWhy God uses our past mistakes to help someone else's present/futureGod growing the game of basketball to reach people around the worldNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Former University of Florida tennis player and current pro tennis coach Jordan Belga joins us today to talk about what he has learned with blending together his love for Jesus and his passion for sport. As someone that has a fascinating journey to get to where he is today, Jordan opens up about some very important topics like finding his worth in Jesus, what he went through as a youth and high school athlete, and more. One thing that Jordan and Ken spend some time on today is his platform for athletes called Rooted Competitor. This Instagram page gives athletes and people that love sports an opportunity to open up and just share what they've gone through and how they've seen Christ move in their lives. So many have been impacted by this page, and you should check it out: https://www.instagram.com/rootedcompetitor/Listen today as we discuss: The process of blending together a love for Jesus with a love for sportsNot putting your identity in the wins or the lossesWhat Jordan learned from a difficult experience through sportWhy he started Rooted CompetitorHow his life experiences formed the idea of Rooted CompetitorNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Can you imagine graduating from college and essentially going right into a collegiate head coaching position? That is exactly what our guest today did! Coach Liv Tidmore, Head Coach of the Oglethorpe University volleyball team and Covenant College alum joins the show today to talk about how she is showing Christ while being one of youngest head coaches in the country. Liv graduated with Ken from Covenant in 2022 and was hired as the Oglethorpe Head Coach in 2023, something that she will let she did not see coming.As she has stepped into this role, she's already learned so much about how to lead as a Christian in a secular setting, how to represent women in her coaching role, and especially what this opportunity means for her. Listen today as we discuss: Her decision to attend Covenant College and why she stayed after a career-ending injuryHow she became a collegiate head coach so quicklyThoughts on being one of the youngest college head coaches in the nationBringing Christian values into a non-Christian settingWhy it's important for women to have leadership roles, especially in sportsNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

The year was 1994 when Charlotte Smith stepped onto the court for the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Women's Basketball National Championship game. With less than a second to go and down by two, Charlotte got the inbound pass, threw up a prayer, and sunk the shot to clinch the title. One of the greatest shots in the history of college basketball. But unlike any fairytale story that you may hear, this wasn't the end of Charlotte's story. Charlotte Smith joins the show today to talk about how Christ has affected her life as an athlete, coach, and human being. Throughout our discussion today, you will learn a lot about what she has gone through, and you will also learn of something special that I Am Second has done with her. Check out the new film "Finding Balance", an I Am Second original film of Charlotte's life as an athlete and coach. You will also hear more about: Chasing the immense high of winning a national championshipHow playing overseas transformed Charlotte's spiritual lifeThe way she looks at winning/losing now as a coachLetting God take control of her life through basketball and beyondHow she relies on Christ to keep her in the presentNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Do you look at your sport as a mission field? Through doing this podcast, I have learned that all sports can and should be used as a mission field for those that proclaim Jesus as their savior. We should be willing to show that Christ-likeness in how we perform, compete, train, and interact with everyone we come in contact with.Phil Morrison, AKA the Basketball Missionary, joins the show today to talk about why God has called him to spread the Gospel while teaching basketball to thousands of people. As a former collegiate and professional basketball player, Phil uses his life experiences to show others what Jesus has done for him, and what he continues to do through him as he travels the world. With an incredible story, listen today as we get to discuss: Phil's love for Jesus and basketballThe best part of playing collegiate and professional basketballUsing a platform to glorify God globallyWhy he started Hoops for Christ"God's sport": the story of James Naismith inventing basketball NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

On this episode, we are talking to someone that has faced a lot in her life. Today I had the honor of talking with Clay High School volleyball/flag football player, homecoming queen, and one of my sisters, Kenzie Burke. Kenzie has lived a lot of life as an athlete and as a person even though she is just 18. In this conversation, we get to hear about how she has dealt with a massive obstacle in her life: having a hip replacement at 13 years old. Throughout the injury process, understanding why God brought her through that, and learning how to play sports again after that, she continues to represent the mercy and grace Jesus provides. Listen as we discuss: Her story from hip replacement to homecoming queenWhy she's been so determined to play the sportsBalancing of working hard with trusting that God has a planHow she plans to stay connected with Christ in collegeWhat she's going to miss most about being a high school student athleteNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Detroit Lions long snapper Scott Daly joins us to talk about how he lives his faith out in the National Football League (NFL) and his unique story from someone that was the #1 long snapper coming out of high school. While he attended Notre Dame in college to play football, he says that this is where his faith became a real relationship. He has played on a variety of teams in the NFL, AAF, and XFL until eventually securing his spot on the Lions. As he has had to trust in God's timing through not playing, getting cut, and through an injury he suffered this past season, Scott gives advice for all athletes that proclaim Christ as their savior. Listen as we discuss: How he came to know JesusRelying on God through uncertain and challenging circumstancesWhy a support system can be so crucial for athletesTaking a bullet for Dan CampbellWhat God has shown him about trust and mercy4th down chances and conversionsNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

How can we discern what God's calling is for our lives? For all of us that are born again believers, we all have a call to proclaim the Gospel to the nations and show Christ's love to everyone we come in contact with. But there's also the other callings that we have in our lives, such as being an athlete, what job you're going to do, who you're going to marry, and so many other things that God calls us into. But that big call that we have as believers never changes.For Rafa Mentzingen, he heard a call from God to come to the US from Brazil in order to chase his dream of being a professional soccer (or football) player. Now, as someone who is actually living out that dream with North Carolina FC of the USL League One, Rafa is showing Christ through how he plays on the soccer field. Today we get to talk with Rafa about his story and how he understood God's calling to come to the US to pursue this dream. Even through some really challenging times, he never questioned what God had in store for him. Listen as we discuss: Feeling Christ's presence while playingThe hardest part of coming to the US from BrazilWinning the USL League One Final after years of determinationHow athletes can understand what Christ is calling them toStaying in the present and not worrying about tomorrowAdvice for young players that want to pursue their dreams of playing professionallyNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Today we're talking about how to handle the spotlight as a Christian in sports, because whether you realize it or not, being an athlete comes with some level of notoriety no matter what country or culture you may find yourself in. You can be a high school athlete or you could be suiting up to play in the NFL or the Premier League, but at some level you're going to have to learn how to represent Christ while on the stage of your sport. That is why today I invited on University of Wisconsin football player Darryl Peterson. Darryl plays in front of tens of thousands of people every single week in the fall, and it is clear to me and everyone who watches him that he is a force on that field. It is also clear who he is portraying in Christ. Throughout this interview you'll learn:What it's meant to him to play Division 1 football at WisconsinHow his versatility has helped him as a football player and personManaging the spotlight since he was in high schoolAthletes being looked to as societal figures, role models, or even idolsWhat has helped his faith throughout his athletic careerWhat he hopes people remember him byNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

How do you navigate sin? How does it affect you as an athlete? What does the Bible say about sin? Well today we are going to go in-depth on what it means to not only battle against sin, but also realizing that we are all broken, sinful people that need a savior in Jesus.Today I invited on former collegiate baseball player, influencer, and podcaster Zach Dehn to talk about this topic and things that he has learned from sin that he has battled throughout his life as an athlete, specifically in college. Zach is fully transparent and I appreciate that because as he is sinful just like everyone in this world, he trusts in Christ now more than ever and gives his sin to Him. Today we talk about: What it means to him to have a relationship with ChristHow sin affected how he played and how he navigated being an athleteHow difficult it is to live out your faith while being around other athletes that aren't Christian Blending his prayer life and social mediaWhy he started the Hey God PodcastCheck out the Hey God Podcast and Zach's inspirational videos on TikTok and Instagram!NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

When I set out to start the Competing for Christ Podcast, I had no idea that nearly 3 years later, I'd still be doing it. To be honest with you, I didn't know what to think. I had maybe a handful of topics to discuss in mind and only 3 people that I wanted to interview. Never could I have imagined that I would get to 100. But over and over again I have seen God move in ways that are unexplainable. I have seen Him reach people across the world with a simple, yet profound message: glorifying Christ through sports. I wanted to blend together my love for Christ and my love for sports because I felt like there wasn't a resource out there where athletes could go to learn, discuss, and share about how to bring Christ into any sport that you play. Little did I know that it would make it this far. With individuals from nearly 50 countries that have tuned in, thousands of downloads, and hundreds of people that I have gotten to meet through this podcast, God has taken it further than ever expected. Today we dive into 11 major lessons that I have learned from from 100 episodes, including: Identity issues being the NUMBER ONE way Satan is attacking Christian athletesYou don't need a degree or title or level of success to make an impactJesus doesn't call you to be perfect, He calls you to trust in His perfectionCoaches should not be who you want to impress the mostJesus is in everything, especially sportsNEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch, celebrating 100 episodes!From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

When you've gone through a challenging time in your life, you may find it quite hard to experience Christ through that time. Or you could be on the other side of the spectrum where you feel God's love so deeply during this challenging time. For myself and our guest today, we have both been on either side of that coin. But how do we navigate this topic when you are pursuing a relationship with Him, and want to feel Him in your life and while you pursue your dream as an athlete?Today we get to talk to Abilene Christian University football player Anthony Egbo Jr., and throughout his life, he has faced numerous challenges that we will discuss today. But as someone that continuously pursues Christ, even outside of his sport, Anthony has not only become a better athlete, but has transformed his perception of Christ and what His plan is for Anthony's life. From being a walk-on to becoming a captain of the ACU football team, he replicates Christ and knows what it means to experience God through anything he goes through. Listen out for these topics:Anthony's thoughts on continuously battling for a spot on the teamWhy he thinks God called him to ACUHow he's been able to experience God's love and His presence through challengesWhat he has learned about patienceGetting involved outside of sportsPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Today we are talking with Lipscomb University softball player Joie Giarrizzo about her softball career, her faith, and a what she has learned as a Division 1 Christian athlete. Joie is entering her 4th year of Division 1 collegiate softball and she has been living for Christ on and off the field during those years. There are many things that you learn as a college athlete, but maybe even more so if you follow Christ throughout. Joie gives her thoughts and opinions on many different topics, including: How Joie has managed to stay close with Jesus throughout collegeAn incredible mission trip that she recently went onWho she relates to most with in the BibleWhy it's important to mentally and physically push yourselfBeing able to show both servanthood and leadershipPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Who is Jesus? The Bible says a lot about who He is, was, and will be. John says that He is the bread of life. Colossians says He is the firstborn of all creation. Luke says that He is the Son of Man. There are so many ways to describe who Jesus is and what He means to so many that put their faith in Him. What should that mean for athletes? It should mean EVERYTHING for athletes! That's why today we are talking to Charleston Southern University Associate Athletic Director Mike Vigue about who Jesus is to him and what Jesus can do for everyone that puts their faith in Him. This conversation was an intriguing one, and Mike brings many helpful insights that can help athletes that are wondering who Jesus really is. Listen out for these topics today:The biggest challenges Christian athletes face todayWhat Jesus has meant to Mike throughout his lifeHow to consistently remind yourself of who Christ isFinding Jesus in sportsHow God has guided Mike's steps to get to where he is todayWhat he has learned about representing Christ throughout his career in sportsPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Guess what? Your career as an athlete is going to come to an end. It may sound crazy, but your days as an athlete are numbered. But you have to ask yourself, what's next? Who are you if you aren't an athlete? Are you going to rely on Jesus for what's next?Today we are talking about life after sports and what that looks like for Christian athletes. That is why today I invited on someone to discuss what that has looked like for her, what she's learned since retiring from sports, and how she has been able to rely on Jesus to provide her sense of identity. We get to hear from a former Covenant College softball player and my wife, Lulu Burke. Listen as we try to be serious and discuss:The most difficult part of not being an athlete anymoreWhat we've carried on from sports into our post-athletic livesSomething that no one talks about when thinking of life after sportsTaking advantage of where God has placed you before it's too lateHow to prepare for life after sports with ChristPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

When you think of certain mentors in your life, you probably don't have to think too long before thinking of someone in your time as an athlete that helped mold and shape who you are as a person today. For Coach Evan Kee, he continues to mentor and shape the minds of young men as the Head Men's Basketball Coach at The Apprentice School. The Apprentice School is a very unique Division 3 school, where athletes learn a trade, get paid for it while going to class, and get to play collegiate basketball. Coach Kee strives to be someone that these players can look up to, and someone that continuously points to Christ for his success. Talking points for todays episode include:What Coach Kee contributes his success to as a coach and mentorWhere he learned how to be a leaderHaving a healthy mentorship aspect to a coaching philosophyHow he's looked to Christ for his identity, not sportsWhy it's important for everyone to have mentors in their livesPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

As someone who wants to grow closer to Christ every single day, I often ask myself, “Can I grow closer to Christ while simultaneously growing as a person?” While this may be very challenging to find that balance, as people and as athletes, we always want to be the best version of ourselves while still shining the spotlight on what Jesus has done through us. Today, we talk about consistent growth with David Gibson, founder of Elevation is a Must, providing young professionals with the tools and strategies that help them build, grow, and live out their ideas and visions. He is an entrepreneur, speaker, and former boxer! As we discuss getting better every day while growing continuously with Christ, some topics that come up include:What David learned from his boxing careerWhy it's so important to grow every day“Your mountains aren't for you to carry, they're for you to climb”Allowing Christ to shape our future rather than push our own agendaFinding the balance of wanting to succeed but not wanting to be self-indulgentPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

KD Hill was a football player at Ole Miss and getting ready for the NFL Draft, destined to play with a pro football team. But in an instant, this reality shifted dramatically. KD's life changed when he got in a car accident that severely injured his leg, and eventually had to get the leg amputated. To most people, this would be seen as a curse and would be stuck asking God, “why me?” But not KD. KD has the most optimistic attitude for someone that is in his position. In fact, he said he's even thankful that it happened, because it showed him that God has other plans for him besides football. But today we get to talk about his life, his path to get to where he is, and what he plans to do now as a motivational figure and someone that portrays Christ in everything he does!Listen as we discuss:KD's testimony as an athlete and his mindset through tragedyTrusting in God's plan over your planAdvise on never quitting and maintaining courageWhat he would tell his younger self to prepare for what was aheadIf his outlook on life has shifted at allFollow KD on Instagram and TikTok!PODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

On this episode, we are talking with Ultra Runner Matt Burdette about a friendship that he has that is one of the coolest things you will ever see. You will hear the background of Matt's athletic journey, more on him as a runner, but something that we focused on today was his relationship with Kevin DiLegge. Kevin has cerebral palsy, but this does not stop him from being inspirational and just an all around amazing human being.Matt and Kevin actually do races together, like the Boston Marathon and Baltimore Marathon, with Matt pushing Kevin throughout the entire race and over the finish line (Matt will tell you that Kevin actually pushes him more). This friendship is inspiring, and getting to talk with Matt in depth on them racing as a pair is something you can not miss.We touch on a lot today, but here are some key topics discussed: Why God has called him to runningParticipating in the 2013 Boston Marathon How this friendship with Kevin beganStriving for inclusivity in all sportsShowing love to everyone the way Jesus didPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

It seems like everyone is in a hurry nowadays, especially athletes. You are constantly going and going, and a lot of times your faith is the first thing to go on the back-burner. But for athletes, what can we do to slow down while still competing at the highest level and getting everything you need done, all while growing closer to Christ? For University of Indianapolis soccer player Sam Hevesy, this issue has been something that has been on his heart for a while now. Sam is early on in his college career, but the knowledge that he brings to our discussion makes it seem like he's older than he is! Even through some difficult experiences as an athlete and Christian, you can tell that God is working in his life and brings excellent advice to this conversation about being in a hurry. Listen as we talk about: What Sam has learned as a Christian collegiate athleteHow he feels connected to God when he plays soccerWhy it's so difficult to not feel hurried in today's societySports getting in the way of faith“Our time is our life, and our attention is the doorway to our hearts.” ~ John Mark ComerWhat he does to prioritize his relationship with JesusPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Today, we're talking about staying ready for the moment and being ready to not only perform on the field, but perform off the field when sharing the Gospel with someone. Just like when you're on the bench or getting ready to go in a game, you have to be ready. Jesus even says that we will not know the day or time when He comes back, so we have to be ready at any point.Seth Porter is a Kansas State football player that has so much experience in this area. He prioritizes being prepared to show and spread the Gospel through his words and actions. He's also had to stay ready for the moment for his entire athletic career for a chance to show what he can do as a walk-on athlete. But when he's gotten those opportunities, he capitalizes, like scoring his first career touchdown just a couple of weeks ago.Listen to learn more about:The most difficult part of his athletic careerWhat keeps pushing him to succeed after six years in collegeBeing ready for anything, on or off the football fieldWhat the Bible says about staying preparedA special moment following Seth's first touchdownHow he stays humble and satisfied with JesusPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

For athletes, working hard is a part of our DNA. It's an essential part if you want to succeed or play to the best of your ability. But what does the Bible say about working hard? How do you know if you're working TOO hard? Is there such thing as working hard for the wrong reasons?Today, I'm going to be talking about what athletes can learn from studying Colossians 3:23, what hard work should mean to an athlete, and why we are called to not only work hard at everything we do, but dedicate that to the Lord. While we may want to impress coaches, teammates, parents, or scouts, we must remember why we love, why we play, and why we are called to the sports that we love.Throughout this solo episode, I'll be touching on: What Colossians 3:23 should mean to athletesHow and why we are called to work hardWorking hard for the wrong reasonsPlaying or practicing for GodThree practical pieces of advice to rethink how you workPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Geremy Davis has been sharing the Gospel through sports for years now. While it may be in a variety of different ways and capacities, he continues to put Jesus first in everything that he does. Geremy played football at UCONN and went on to play in the NFL for three different teams. As someone who had one of the most prolific careers for a wide receiver at UCONN, he dedicates everything that he has to Christ and has done that since before playing in college. Through injuries, uncertainties, and hardship, there is so much to be said about what God has been able to do through him. Now that he has concluded his playing career on the gridiron, Geremy has shifted his mindset to a set of irons! As he is the host of the YouTube channel Golf and Gospel, he interviews athletes and the like about their playing career, what they've faced as athletes, and how their faith shapes everything that they do. Geremy is not ashamed of the Gospel and you can sense the passion that he has for Jesus throughout our conversation today.Listen today and learn more from Geremy about:His successes and battles as a UCONN and NFL football starThe hardest part of living out his faith as a Division 1 athlete and in the NFLMaking the transition after his career concludedThe backstory of Golf and GospelWhy he's obsessed with golf and sharing the Gospel with othersExpecting the unexpected when following JesusCheck out Golf and Gospel here!PODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Something that is so important for every person that follows Jesus is putting people around you that love you, want to see you succeed, and most importantly speak God's truth into your life. As an athlete, the teammates and friends that are around you will most likely influence how you live and how you act. On today's episode, Braxston Cave, former Notre Dame and NFL offensive lineman joins the show to discuss his incredible athletic journey, his experience with God surrounding him with the right people, and more. He had an outstanding career as a football player, was one of the highest ranked recruits coming out of high school, and most importantly has a passion for following Jesus. Listen for more, including: His experience playing in the 2012 national championship gameRepping Christ on the Notre Dame campus and in an NFL locker roomWhat he's learned about surrounding himself with the right people vs. the wrong crowdShowing Christ to those around you that don't know Christ“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.”PODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Joseph Mwaura is the Founder and Director of New Hope Sport Centre in Naivasha, Kenya. Not only does this organization give opportunities to children in Africa through sports, they also share the Gospel with athletes that otherwise may never hear about Jesus. Today, I sit down with Joseph to discuss how New Hope Sport Centre gives opportunities through sports to children. Joseph gets to be a father figure to hundreds of children, some of whom do not have fathers or have been neglected in their lives.Listen to hear more about:Trials and battles that Joseph has faced in his lifeHow he used difficult situations to promote Jesus to hundredsWhy it's important to reach out to our special needs communities to make them feel included and lovedWhy sports are a great way to spread the GospelThe most impactful story of a child that he has helped through sportsCheck out New Hope Sport Centre here!PODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Success for Christian athletes may look different than others. Although we may want to succeed by performing well, winning, or even earning a scholarship or going pro, success for someone that loves Jesus means trusting His plan, sharing His word, and showing Christ through our actions. Author, podcast host of The Success Chronicles, motivational speaker, and former football player Chip Baker joins us today to talk about what success should mean, and what it should look like for a Christian athlete. Chip is surrounded with success and has literally written books, gave hundreds of talks, and has spent eight years podcasting about this topic. Throughout the conversation, we talk about:How failing can contribute to your successWhat Jesus says about successHow to not make your achievements and victories an idol in your life.Reminding yourself that success as a Christ follower is bigger than what this world has to offerWhat to do if you're feeling discouraged from lack of successPODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Chris Elliott, Athletic Trainer at Grand Canyon University and former collegiate basketball player, joins the show to discuss what it means to play "beyond the game". The thoughts and wisdom that he brings to this conversation really shows how you can make an impact on athletes in a variety of different ways. Throughout this episode you will hear a lot about Chris' background as an athlete and his battle through injuries in his career. You will also hear about a special project that he is working on with athletes ranging from the high school level up to professional athletes. This project, a daily devotional called “Beyond the Game”, has 365 entries from 365 different athletes. Listen and learn about:How an injury in his athletic career changed the trajectory of his life and careerWhat one athletic trainer meant to him as a playerBeing a witness for Christ to athletes on a daily basisHow to perform "beyond the game"Reminding ourselves that we perform, compete, and live for a higher purposeWhere/When/How everyone can get the devotionalFollow the Beyond the Game Instagram and X pages for updates on when this devotional will launch!PODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

For athletes, it's so difficult to feel content when everyone and everything around you is striving to be better and wanting the next best thing. We have to ask ourselves where that line is, that fine balance between feeling like you have it all covered yet still push yourself to be the best person, the best Christ follower you can be. Joining the show to talk about this important issue is collegiate football player Keegan McCormack-Reamer. Keegan brings a great perspective to this episode, as he struggles with finding that balance as well, yet relies on the Lord through this process in his football career. Through injuries, scholarship losses, and more trials, he hasn't lost his faith and that is shown by his humility, determination, and grit. Talking points for today:Keegan's unique upbringing with 14 siblingsChasing his dream of playing professional footballDifficulty finding the balance between being satisfied and wanting moreThe unhealthy nature of athletes pushing their body too farWhat God has taught him about trusting in His planThe glorification of wanting more and more as an athleteSubscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

According to the Pew Research Center, about half of Americans believe that God determines what happens to them most or all of the time. Nearly eight-in-ten US adults think God or a higher power has protected them, and two-thirds of Americans say they have been rewarded by the Almighty. For us as athletes, we have to ask ourselves if we believe that God has put us where we are right now for a particular purpose. God does give us opportunities as athletes to use our talents and abilities, and more importantly puts us into positions to share the Gospel by our words and actions. Brand new head baseball coach at Crown College and former professional baseball player Colt Sedbrook joins us today to discuss his background as a coach, professional athlete, and collegiate athlete. We also go in depth on taking advantage of the opportunities that God puts in front of us and what it takes to use those chances to best serve those around us. Listen to learn more about: The most difficult level of sport for him - playing collegiately, playing professionally, or coachingHow the transition to a head baseball coach has drawn him closer to GodFinding a balance of feeling content in Jesus, yet wanting to excel and increase in your career and abilitiesHow to take advantage of each situation God puts you inTrusting in Jesus through discouraging timesAdvice he got as a player on relying on his abilities and God's plan Subscribe to the show and share this episode!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

In Matthew 19, Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” How can sports be a way of reaching children for the sake of the Gospel? How can you show Jesus to children that may have experienced trauma in their lives?Joining us today is Jimmy Larche, founder of Breakaway Outreach, an organization founded to empower young people with Gospel transformation and make disciples of Jesus Christ through nurturing communities of faith, hope, and love. What is so unbelievable about Jimmy's story is that at one point in his life, he found himself in a juvenile detention center and didn't know what the future held. Flash forward years later, and he helps youth affected by trauma find themselves and find Jesus all over the world through sports. There are so many discussion points in today's show, including: How someone visiting him in juvie changed the trajectory of his lifeWhy he felt called by God to start Breakaway OutreachHow he has seen sports and other ministries reach youth around the worldWhat Jesus meant when He said to have faith like a childSteps taken to ensure love and care for children affected by hardshipLessons he's learned from working in this ministry for yearsRead more about Breakaway Outreach here!https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Today, we get to hear about Somi Azubike's testimony, his journey through football, and how he has grown his faith in Christ throughout recent years. Somi plays collegiate football at Kentucky Christian University and you will notice that his testimony is real, and you get a real sense of what it's like to be a collegiate football player nowadays by his story. During our discussion, Somi shares what he has gone through in his personal life and his career as an athlete, and what it means to him to fully rely on God even when the unknown looms ahead. Listen as we talk about some in-depth topics, including: Somi's faith journey to get to where he is todayHow Jesus has impacted how Somi plays sports and lives his lifeAn unbelievable story on finding Kentucky ChristianFinding a balance of the emotions that come with sportHow he would change his journey up until this pointReminding yourself what your identity is inhttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Today we are talking with Liberty University Track Athlete and Captain Will Jefferson on his journey and how God has guided him to get to where he is today. We dissect how Will has allowed Christ to be at the center of his life, how He has played a huge role in his life, and more on the life of a college recruit/athlete.No matter what stands in Will's way, there are three things that stuck out throughout our discussion: faith, leadership, and humility. Will possesses all three of these characteristics, which is truly necessary as Christians in sport today. Throughout this conversation, learn more about Will and his journey as we talk about:Will's unique path through the recruiting processAdvice he would give for every athlete that wants to play in collegeHandling the pressure and anxiety that comes with being a Division 1 college athleteManaging successPrioritizing humility in a sports world that is anything but humblehttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Luke Heaton, UNPACKIN' it Sports Ministries Social Media Director and the Co-Host of The UNPACKIN' it Podcast, joins the show today to talk about how to have passion for Jesus over the sports that we can be consumed by. UNPACKIN' it is a sports fan ministry that is such a great resource for anyone and everyone that follows Jesus and loves sport. This organization is one of a kind and helps sports fans all over become passionate for Jesus. Our conversation talks a lot about how we as Christians and athletes can keep our love for sports in check, as this is such a hard topic to conquer for us surrounded by athletics. Listen and learn more about: The goal of Unpackin' itHow Christians can stick out in their fan basesLoving sports as fans (or as athletes) and not letting it get in the way of our love for JesusHolding athletes to a higher standard in a bad wayWhat athletes can learn about keeping composure when fans may nothttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

In John 15, Jesus states that if we were of the world, the world would love you as its own. But since Jesus has chosen us to be out of the world, we should be prepared for the world to hate us. Are we ready for those kinds of trials as Christians in sports? Are we prepared to have boos pouring on us just because we wear a cross around our neck or put on eye black that says John 3:16? Today, we get to talk with Butler University Assistant Women's Basketball Coach Kristin Wodrich on being in the world, but not being of the world. As Kristin has played Division 1 basketball, coached at a plethora of Division 1 and 2 institutions, she has dedicated her career to helping the next generations of athletes through basketball. It's apparent that even though she's been at secular schools, she always portrays the love of Jesus to her players. Many topics are discussed today, including: College being a make or break time for a lot of people's faithSticking out for Christ even in a fallen worldBeing a Christian at a secular school vs being a secular person at a Christian schoolSetting the example as a coach for athletesHow Christians are "built different" as leadershttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

When Head Basketball Coach John Mosley of East Los Angeles College was invited on the hit Netflix show "Last Chance U", he was hesitant. Although it would be a cool opportunity, it would be an all-access docuseries, filming every move he and his players made. Although he didn't want to, he knew it would be a way of showing people Christ through his life and coaching.This show is dramatic, it's inspiring, and it reveals the grittiness that the JUCO basketball life is. It shows the good and difficult moments for a coach and his players that come from different upbringings, most of them living a very hard life or making mistakes before coming to East LA. But Coach Mosley uses this time with them to not only coach them in basketball, but pour into their lives. In our conversation today, Coach Mosley gives us a behind the scenes look into his coaching career, his philosophies, more about Last Chance U, and most importantly, his faith in Jesus Christ. He attributes where he's at and all the success he's had to Christ, and that is apparent throughout our talk. Listen as we discuss:How Coach Mosley has been able to reach athletes through basketball for the sake of ChristA mission trip to Brazil that changed the trajectory of his lifeHis personal experience as a Netflix starShowing emotions as a Christian in sportHow he hopes "Last Chance U" helps his players and moreGlorifying God even when the spotlight is on ushttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

This new segment features Ken and Fabish Mark (guest from Episode 16 and friend of the show!) discussing current and general sports events, topics, and issues. As we come from different countries, backgrounds, and perspectives, our faith and love for sports brings us together to have this unscripted, fun, and hilarious conversation. In this wild conversation, we discuss:What is the hardest sport?Why is Saudi Arabia trying to take all athletes? Should professional teams scout in East Africa?Why do old soccer (football) players come to the US?Why did Ken wrestle as a 12 year old?How big was the hand that slapped Fabish?https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Mark Otieno Odhiambo is a Kenyan world class track athlete. As a national champion and ranked as one of the fastest people not only in Kenya but in the world, he has a relationship with God that is inspiring and firm. Throughout our conversation today, we talk about a lot of things that will make you think about God's love, His faith, and how he continues to be with Mark even through difficult circumstances. As we discuss what it looks like to show Christ through his performance and how he carries himself, Mark stays humble and gives insight into picking up his cross daily to follow God. Listen and learn more about:Keeping Christ at the center of your life and athletic careerHow the sports culture in Kenya shaped the athlete that Mark is todayWhy he chose to compete in track and field professionallyMaking those around you better through your actions and wordsIs it more difficult to spread the Gospel as a professional athlete? https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

On today's episode, we are talking to Hall of Fame Basketball Coach and Nations of Coaches Director Mike Lightfoot about finding purpose in sports. From 1987 to 2017, he was the head basketball coach at Bethel University, leading the Pilots to 794 wins, 3x NAIA Division II National Championships, 4x NCCAA National Championships, 11x NCCAA Regional Championships, 18x Mid Central Conference/Crossroads League Championships. As a nine-time National Coach of the Year and being inducted into six different Hall of Fames, he is considered one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time.Coach Lightfoot puts Christ above every single accomplishment that he received as a basketball coach. He is passionate about finding purpose through Christ, rather than in sports. Today, we sit down with him and talk about his journey, how he made his athletes better on and off the court, and much more. Topics for today's episode: How he managed to keep every accomplishment in perspective Focusing on the present instead of the future or the pastHow he conveyed to his players that their purpose should be more than basketball in lifeStaying grounded through the highs and lows of lifeHow Nation of Coaches makes an impact on coaches throughout the countryhttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

If I asked you if you've given God full control over your life, would you be able to say yes? On this episode of the Competing for Christ Podcast, we are talking with Mark Ridgley, former NFL and collegiate football coach. Mark has coached at a couple of different places, but most recently coached with the Los Angeles Chargers for a number of years. As we talk with Mark about his coaching career and his life as a Christian in sports, we focus today on giving God the reins of our lives. This is difficult for everyone in this world, as most of us like to keep control over what goes on in our world. Jesus says in the book of John that he is the vine and we are the branches, meaning that we must give Him control so that we can have life and abide in Him. Here are some topics for our conversation today:How Christ has affected Mark's life and his career in sportsHis love for coaching football and what he experienced in the NFLWhat he has learned about giving God the reinsThe struggle between contentment and wanting morePrioritizing Christ in a fast-paced worldhttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Need encouragement or want to come on the show? Text me: (904) 463-5917 Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Stepping out of our comfort zones is one of the most difficult things to do, not just in sports but in life. However, pushing ourselves to be uncomfortable and be in hard situations proves time and time again that something good usually comes out of them. This doesn't mean you have to go halfway around the world to get uncomfortable, you can do this right now wherever you find yourself.Keenan Horne is a South African field hockey player and an attorney. He has competed in the Olympics, numerous championships, and is currently playing professionally in France. Today we get to talk to him about what it means to step out of our comfort zones as Christians in sport, and he gives excellent input into how he has used this topic to get to where he is today as an athlete and in his life. Listen today as we discuss:How he stays focused on Jesus while playing professional sports, practicing law, and recently getting engagedStaying connected with Christ through busy timesBeing able to take leaps of faith in order to help our walk with Christ and our careers The most uncomfortable situation he has found himself inHis thoughts on if he stayed complacent throughout his lifehttps://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

If you are an athlete, more likely than not you will face mental barriers, mental hurdles, and mental warfare during your time in sports. As a Christian in the athletic world, how can we face these trials through Christ? What do we do to stop the stigma surrounding getting help for your mental health? How can we stop these things before they go too far? Founder of Athletic Fortitude and former Division 1 football player Colin Jonov joins the podcast today to talk about conquering mental hurdles that we face as athletes. As someone who struggled with this during and following his playing days, Colin brings a wealth of knowledge into this conversation that you are not going to want to miss!Topics for today's discussion:Lessons he learned from his Division 1 and professional playing careerHow to break the stigma surrounding mental health in athleticsWhat athletes can do in advance to not let mental hurdles get in the way How people should view athletesHis vision for helping athletes through Athletic FortitudeCheck out Athletic Fortitude: https://www.athleticfortitude.com/https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!