E3 in Action

Allyson Fertig, MVP On and Off the Court

sfrude@fca.org (Stacy Frude) — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:43:25 GMT

Allyson Fertig, MVP On and Off the Court

You may know Allyson Fertig as the 2025 Mountain West Girls Basketball Player of the year. Or for one of her many other accolades including her selection to the All Mountain West Tournament Team, as a 3x Academic All-American, or for her spot in the Women's Basketball College All-Star game. But did you know she is an FCA All Star as well? God has grown Allyson into a spiritual leader on her team, on the UWYO campus, as well as within UWYO FCA. Allyson arrived in Laramie with a promising basketball career, which she has delivered on; however, her faith was less pronounced. While Allyson would have claimed to be a Christian, she did not fully understand what it meant to place her faith and hope in Jesus Christ as her Savior until the end of her freshman year of college, through the influence of her sister, church and exploring campus ministries. Allyson immediately demonstrated the fruit of true repentance as she began to read her Bible, talk to God in prayer, consistently connect with Christian community and align her lifestyle with what she learned about God's design for how to live life and relate to others. As she has grown from a timid professing Christian to a bold professor of the gospel, Allyson is an integral part of our FCA leadership team, publicly sharing her testimony and serving as a huddle leader at FCA Sports Camp.

Once Allyson retired her UWYO basketball jersey this spring, she picked up a track uniform and is finishing her senior year throwing on the UWYO track team. Following graduation this spring, she hopes to play pro either in the states or abroad, but ultimately, she would not be opposed to God planting her back in Wyoming as a small town Math teacher and basketball coach. We look forward to seeing what God has for Allyson's future and hope to see her back at UWYO someday as our FCA Camp Girls Basketball Coach!

Homecoming in 2023! New announcement for FCA WYO Sports Camps

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 14:59:45 GMT

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

We hope that the stories and updates here give insight into what God is doing in our square state. We want to engage, equip, and empower our WY athletes and coaches, along with connecting our amazing FCA community of volunteers and supporters.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about a BIG FCA WYOMING ANNOUNCEMENT! OUR SPORTS CAMP 2023 WILL BE HOSTED AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING THIS SUMMER!

For 20+ years , this co-ed and multi-sports Camp has been taking Campers and Coaches out of the daily grind to focus on developing excellence in their Sport and growing their character. We want to take Athletes to the next level in their game. In their lives.

This coming summer, we are excited to announce a HOMECOMING for our sports Camp. Our sports Camp will be returning to our home on a Wyoming range at the University of Wyoming.

BACK TO THE PAST. Our Wyoming FCA Camp was originally sited at Northwest College in Powell. It was an exciting achievement! Campers no longer had to travel across country or neighboring states to attend an FCA Camp. The Camp became a success and a huge part of our growing ministry.

Eventually, the camp even outgrew the NWC facility. Wanting to expand beyond the only 2-3 sports allowed to be held on campus, the direction for the Camp moved to Black Hills State University.

As a result, the first Northern Black Hills Sports Camp in Spearfish was in 2007. As a Multi-State Sports Camp, FCA WY worked and serves along other FCA Staff from Nebraska and South Dakota, as well. The Camp was called one of the best in the region and did we have an awesome run there!

Take a look below at a few Camp photos over the years to see how it has grown!

FAST FORWARD.

This coming summer - we have moved from Black Hills University to a new locale at the University of Wyoming . With amazing campus and facilities, we are looking forward to a Camp on our home turf. Take a look at our overnight camp in Laramie, Wyoming!

When: June 28-July 1, 2023

Where: University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming

Cost: $425 Athlete $525 Golf Athlete

Financial Assistance: Please apply for financial aid before registration. Go here for financial assistance.

Sports offered: Track and Field, Soccer, Swimming, Cross Country, Tennis, Golf, Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Girls, Volleyball, Boys Football, Wrestling (boys/girls)

Transportation: Campers responsible for your transportation to and from camp. Volunteer transportation information coming soon. Itinerary: Check confirmation email after registration for Camp Essentials Letter with what to bring, what to wear, and other important info.

Read below highlights from former camp years:

LOOKING AHEAD.

Learn more about our FCA WYOMING Sports Camp at University of Wyoming HERE . This camp in our Square State is right around the corner.

A few more things...

For families in need of financial assistance, please fill out scholarship forms BEFORE registering.

If you are ready to register for Camp, go to registration button. You will receive a confirmation email along with an itinerary "quintessential" letter. For transportation and other information, please check back to website. HOWEVER, keep in mind website information is updated regularly but may not be the most up to date source.

Can't wait to see you there! - FCA WYO

Every Athlete and Coach: Year 2022

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 15:29:01 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

We hope that these stories give you insight into what God is doing in our square state. We want to engage, equip, and empower our WY athletes and coaches, along with connecting our amazing FCA community of volunteers and supporters.

Feel free to keep reading!

EVERYTHING IN CHRIST

Eph. 1:10-11 “And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth. Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.”

We hope you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! It is the time for rest, renewal and rejoicing in the best gift of all - our King Jesus!

We just wanted to share a brief wrap up on 2022 ministry to the 34,000 athletes and coaches in our state.

This past year, we are so thankful for the opportunity to reach our athletes and coaches. They were introduced to the Gospel. They were discipled to grow in faith and community. They were also supported to step up in all kinds of leadership roles.

From athletes and coaches to volunteers - impact and influence in our Wyoming sports culture was EVERYWHERE. Fields of Faith started up again (a first for some staff). We continued our annual great Game Day event. Huddle ministry saw growth to new campuses and teams, including an FCA Rodeo Huddle in Casper. Not to mention, we also had dodgeball and volleyball competitions, barbeques, Winter Retreat Camp, cornhole tournaments, opened our online FCA WYO Gear store and more!

Power Camps provided a lot of fun and development fundamentals for our younger athletes, with several camps around the state. Finally, our Multi-state Sports Camp witnessed close to 500 athletes and staff fellowship, worship, train and compete at maximum levels this last summer...

and our FCA Team welcomed with new staff! (Read more about all this on our other blog posts!)

We are so thankful for our Volunteers, Donors, Staff and Board Members who give their time and heart into the sports ministry that is Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Stay tuned! We will soon be sharing news about our 2023 Summer FCA WYO Camp. Feel free to check back in soon HERE for all the details.

May God bless you with the Love and Peace that comes from serving and loving the King!

-FCA WYOMING

Game Day Going Strong: Look back and fast forward with this State event!

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 16:27:18 GMT

Watch highlights from 2022 Game Day this past October!

Read about FCA WYO Game Day past, present and future in 2022!

How it Started

GREAT TO ENGAGE. Director Aaron Frude for FCA at University of Wyoming and his FCA Laramie/UWYO Staff have been hosting this event for close to twenty years now. When asked about the impact Game Day has had on ministry in his area, he shares:

"I actually was a player in 1998 and was one of the players who shared at the event. Since 2002, I have been putting the event on as a staff member and we continue to do the same event, so it is fun to reflect on how I first got involved with Gameday."

He continues: "Gameday was brought to UWYO by the Wyoming FCA staff to provide an opportunity to ENGAGE with FCA kids around the state to enjoy a Wyoming football game and hear from an encouraging speaker before the game who will share the Gospel. Players on the UWYO football team also share about their faith following the game which has been an example of UWYO athlete role models to leverage their influence to point others to Christ.

Often, this is one of the highlights of the event where kids are watching the guys compete on the field, and then they are grabbing their bibles and sharing with the kids face to face - which is encouraging to see."

Check out below FCA Staff Jim Hamilton who serves the Greater Yellowstone and Pinedale FCA. He has been a part of Game Day for decades, bringing kids and volunteers as far as six hours away - in sometimes winter Wyoming weather - to this annual event.

How It's Going

GOING STRONG. Frude continues: "This event continues to be a great outreach where FCA students and coaches have the opportunity to invite a friend or students to attend the event that may not normally go to church or their local FCA meetings but will go to Gameday to enjoy an event and the football game in Laramie. With speakers that love the Lord it is a great event to share the Gospel and the eternal hope found in Christ.

Certainly, highlights of the event have been us seeing literal busloads of kids come to the event. From Torrington, Lingle, and Burns for example who have arranged buses to bring kids, it seems like there have been years where a huge percentage of these schools that were actually packed into First Christian Church in Laramie for our pre-game rally."

GETTING INVOLVED. Frude believes volunteers play an important role in this kind of outreach. He says:

" The main role that volunteers and huddle leaders play in the event is helping spread the word and provide a means for kids to get to the event through arranging transportation or actually taking kids to the event. Without these key volunteers, kids would not participate in the event or the influence would be significantly less. They provide a critical role in making the event possible!

Thank you to everyone for your support and help with this event."

Would you like to learn more about getting involved with FCA Wyoming? Check out opportunities HERE>

Here's a highlight video from FCA WYO Game Day 2021...

What's Happening Now - Game Day 2022!

FCA GAME DAY HAS moved to Nov. 19th! Keep reading for more EVENT INFORMATION :

Cost: Ages 12 and under $40 Ages 13+ $45

includes FCA program, meal, Game Day shirt, & ticket to the UWYO vs Boise State football game

Game Day Event Location: First Christian Church

Check in 2-2:30pm

2:30pm Program

4:40 Pre-Game meal and head to the game

Kick off time 5:00pm

For Registration Questions:

Becky Johnson beckyjohnson@fca.org 307-761-3232

Fields of Faith is Growing in WYO!

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 02:47:57 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Why Fields of Faith
The First Fields of Faith
Fields of Faith from other years

Feel free to keep reading!

It's that time of year again! Fields of Faith is happening all around the nation and all around our square state, too. Here are the Fields of Faith events in Wyoming: Rocksprings, Moorcroft and Sheridan

Would you like to learn more about FCA WYO Fields of Faith? Check out info from the official site below or continue reading about our past FOFs. Just keep in mind - with Wyoming weather, our fields often turn into gym floors of faith events! We would love for you to pray and attend this event!

From the official website:

Why Fields of Faith?

You Can Help Change Our Culture.

It’s time to spark a spiritual movement for God. Christianity needs a change in momentum—students who will stand together against the pressures and temptations in our world and be a generation that is committed to reading the Bible and applying it to their lives.

It’s time to Get in the Game and Get in the Book!

LEARN MORE HERE>

The First Fields of Faith
by FCA WY

Recap on First Fields of Faith in 2019
Nationwide Fields of Faith 2019: 503 Fields – 192,000+ People

First in State. 2019 was a big year. One of those milestones included our first Fields of Faith in Wyoming. We joined the nation to pray and rally together! Sheridan and Rock Springs were ready to host. Of course, an early winter blizzard changed those plans. But, Rock Springs was still able to pull the event off with a great guest Speaker, energized volunteers and Task Force Team and students who both served and attended.

It was also an opportunity for Staff Jim Hamilton to share the FOUR and get kids pumped for Camp 2020 (before Covid-19). Overall, the entire night was one to remember! Pastor Nate is now on Staff and hosting Fields of Faith in Rock Springs this year!

Volunteers and Leaders Rocked it! When asked about their experience at Fields of Faith and impact of FCA, a Rock Springs Coach and Volunteer shares:

"My experience as a volunteer for fields of Faith was amazing! We prayed about the event as a group and also individually, it was amazing to see how God orchestrated the evening and how things fell into place. Fields of faith allowed us to open the door and get the word out about Fellowship of Christian athletes in Rock Springs. As a parent and coach, it’s exciting to see all of the Christian kids bond together and be united.

Our volunteers have seen so many amazing things happen, not only for fields of faith, but also for getting kids to FCA Camp, fundraising, and allowing us to reach out in sports specific huddles to a large number of Rock Springs athletes. We have seen so many things happen when we let God be in control.... Ephesians 3:20 'now to him who is able to do above and beyond all we ask or think according to the power that works in us.'

Both of my children have attended FCA Camp for the past three years, they look forward to going every year. It is the only camp that I have worked and attended that reaches out to the whole student/athlete. I know God has great and amazing plans for Rock Springs, Wyoming!"

Thank you, Coach B., for this inspirational message and for all our Volunteers and what you do!

Blizzards and Pandemic did not stop us from having Fields of Faith 2020. Read about the Student Athlete Leaders who led the way and the night event!

Follow up on FOF 2020
by FCA WY Media

Recap of the Virtual Wyoming Event

Fields of Faiths served a big part of our October Highlights as our second year and our first FOF virtual event. Yes, even early blizzards and on-going pandemic couldn't stop ministry in 2020! We were blessed to have this student led event through Zoom, with host and Powder River Staff, Cameron and the panelists - Student Athlete Leaders and Guest Speaker Pastor Aaron. Thank you to everyone who stepped up and out in faith!

While we missed having Fields of Faith as a face-to-face event, like last year in Rock Springs, the virtual meeting was still a great opportunity to share the Gospel message and it allowed these Student Athlete Leaders to really lead and serve. The focus of FCA WY this year has really centered on equipping and empowering our FCA Student Athlete Leaders.

Just look at how Shaelea, from Sheridan, had some powerful words for peers : "Just seeing the impact in school and how these people are given hope for the first time, you are loved and you are seen and going through hard times in high school - that's what I am going to remember most."

This is the kind of leadership that gets us excited for the future of FCA WY and the potential impact!

And while this event pumped up our Leaders in their faith, it also was an opportunity to help others grow in their faith. Infact, 5 attendees responded with wanting to grow more in their faith after the event. 5 is awesome! Whether it is 5 or a 100 - we want EVERY Athlete and EVERY Coach in Wyoming to know Jesus and this is just plain awesome, TEAM.

Help us see the world AND WYOMING transformed by Jesus Christ

through the influence of coaches and athletes.

Financial gifts contribute to continuing the vision and mission of FCA in Wyoming .

Would you like to support FCA with a donation?

Edition 6 Stories: E3 in Action

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:12:03 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Engaging, Equipping, and Empowering with Athletes this summer

Feel free to keep reading!

2022 Power Camps around the State

Our Stories: E3 in Action

Summer is camp season for FCA. From multi-sport camp in South Dakota to Day Sports Camps around the state - we have been busy engaging, equipping and empowering Wyoming athletes these last few months.

Power Camp 2022. We especially love Power Camps because these events give us an awesome opportunity to engage with young athletes. Volunteers and staff build relationships and trust with young campers, while also sharing the Gospel and providing excellent instruction and fun activities.

It is all about these young athlete's hearts!

There were five Power Camps: Casper, Cheyenne, Laramie, Fremont County and Jackson. Combined numbers show that 200+ Campers attended! That means hundreds of youths heard the Gospel in our communities and impacted by this ministry.

"We had another great Laramie FCA Power Camp Last week at Kiwanis Park and Linford Elementary School for 3rd-6th graders. The kids participated in 3 different sports over the course of three days, heard testimonies of how God has worked in the lives of their huddle leaders and coaches, and saw volunteers from the community and a variety of churches work together with a unified vision to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes. Praise God!!!" - Laramie FCA on facebook

Connection and Trust. Staff Kevin Cates shares his experience with Cheyenne Power Camp: "Holding a power camp in Cheyenne for the first time was a major win. Kids and parents were introduced to FCA, most for the first time. Parents were impressed with the camp. Will help bring more awareness and support of FCA in the community.

Camp at this age is a seed planter for future ministry. When these kids get to Junior high and high school, they will have had a positive experience with FCA. As a result, we will also have a major positive impact on our junior high and high school ministries. Best of all, there were 8 decisions to follow Christ and m any heard the gospel clearly for the first time; planting seeds for a future time when they may be ready to receive Christ."

"The entire camp was fun and entertaining! Getting that many kids of that age together leads to a lot of fun and entertainment. Hearing the laughter, seeing the smiles, especially during the non-sport games" shares Kevin Cates, Camp Director and Cheyenne staff.

Watch below to see his area's power camp in action!

On Track with Training Volunteers!

The end of summer means the beginning of training for our ministry Leaders. Around the state, our staff and hundreds of volunteers (from lunch makers to huddle leaders) are meeting to get ready for huddle ministry and do their training.

This equipping also serves as a great way to gather and fellowship together! In the end, we want to help these leaders be empowered to go out, share the Gospel and make disciples with other coaches, teammates, and community this fall.

Check out some pics from huddle training camp last weekend with middle school and high school huddle coaches and student leaders in Laramie. They went through the ministry playbook and utilized some of the planning tools for this semester.

In Pinedale, Staff Jim Hamilton, along with Huddle Leader Casey, hosted a "kick off" dinner with close to 35 volunteers and student athlete leaders. They met to connect and prep for huddle ministry. FCA in Pinedale has nearly 75 volunteers in the little town, with football, golf, volleyball, boys basketball, alpine skiing, wrestling, girls soccer, track and field, hockey team huddles, multi-sport huddle and coaches huddle.

They really know how to "wrangle" up (as the Pinedale Wranglers) an amazing team of people who love Jesus and love sport.

Would you like to know more about getting involved?

We will be sharing more stories about empowering Leaders and their impact with ministry...

In the meantime, we would love for you to check out how to get involved if you are not already. There are plenty of opportunities and ways to serve with in our sports ministry. Feel free to contact Staff to find out what is happening in your area! Also, visit here for more info: Join Our Team

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

E3 in Action: Camp 2022 special edition

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 20:57:37 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Highlights from our Sports Camp
Interview with Wyo Camper
More to come about our Camp 2022 with photos and video!

Feel free to keep reading!

Highlights From FCA Camp BHSU 2022

Our Sports Camp this summer in the Northern Black Hills was incredible. With over 600 Campers, Leaders and Staff, it was an experience we always remember! We were blessed to have an incredible team of volunteers capture our time there and share in real time at camp at Evening Team Chapels. Watch below these highlights for each day.

Straight from the Heart

Last summer and this year, our FCA Camp @BHSU was blessed to have Sarah Freymuth attend as an FCA journalist. She traveled to our camp and took many photos and interviewed Campers and Coaches. We hope that her stories and time at Camp continue the impact of Camp. Take a look below at one of her interviews with camper from Sundance, Wyoming.

ALREADY APPROVED

Published on June 25, 2022

SARAH FREYMUTH

What does it mean to be truly accepted and already approved?

This is the questions Andy Davis, a high school senior in Sundance, Wyoming, wrestled with as he began his week at FCA Black Hills Sports Camp. Joining his Huddle and working hard with the wrestling team, barriers began to break down as Davis felt this environment was different than any he’d experienced.

“It’s a very uplifting experience, very faith-building,” the first-time camper said. “It’s nice to be around other people with the same mindset and values.”

What really struck Davis was everyone’s vulnerability, from Huddle leaders to coaches to fellow campers. “It’s great to see everyone lifted up in faith and be themselves and not put on any facades or fakeness.”

Davis knows well the exhausted loop of seeking approval, spending years trying to measure up to his perceived standard of acceptance.

“I was never really thought of as the cool kid and I had a problem with that because I wanted to be the center of attention,” he admitted. “I was always searching, always trying to validate myself, have my friends validate me or tried to find validation through girls. I just never felt right.”

But the more he worked and bonded with his fellow wrestlers, dove into discussion during Huddle time and connected with the guys in Huddle and his Huddle leader, the more he realized he wasn’t alone in the struggle.

“The biggest help is definitely talking to guys with similar life stories who can say, ‘Hey, I used to want to be in the spotlight, but after I let God lead, it didn’t matter anymore.’”

April and May Stories: E3 in Action

Thu, 19 May 2022 16:30:55 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Engaging, Equipping, and Empowering with Athletes through FCA Rodeo

Feel free to keep reading!

FCA Rodeo Rounding up for Huddles

Did you know that Fellowship of Christian Athletes ministers to Rodeo Athletes and Coaches? We have recently started up FCA Rodeo in Casper and it has really taken off!

Read more below about Staff JC Navarro's experience sharing the Gospel and making disciples with this Huddle.

Not spur of the moment. With my background in Rodeo wanted to get something started at the college level.
Unfortunately, it took about a year for me to actually act on it. God put it on my heart but because of fear of rejection I waited.

Finally, in February of this year, I went over to the college and talked with their head coach Jhett Johnson who is also a world champion team roper. I introduce myself and told him
about FCA. I asked if I could talk to his kids about getting a bible study started.

He looked at me and said, "I'm so glad you stopped by. I think this is exactly what my team needs." Then, he said, "I need it too."

I soon found out that 20 plus athletes said they would be interested in joining an FCA huddle. However, we were blessed to have even more than twenty athletes show up to the first huddle and every huddle after that!

Check out the video below with more pics and video of their time together@

FCA Staff's interview continued...

What a FCA Rodeo Huddle looks like. FCA rodeo is a great huddle to be involved for many different reasons. First, we are able to have great fellowship. A typical meeting consists of lots of pizza, games and competitions, prayer requests and time of prayer.

Digging in the Word . The primary focus for our meetings is to study the Bible together. I want to introduce them to what God says about Himself and what He calls us to be as followers of him.

Currently, we are reading a chapter each week from the book of John. We also have a group discussion that can run at least two hours long each meeting! This has also led to many conversations outside of the group discussions to apply in real life shared in the meetings.

For some, our meetings are the first time they have ever read the Bible. Engaging with their hearts and equipping them with tools to grow has been an amazing experience and blessing!

The Huddle's Vision. Our vision for the huddle is to stay faithful to God in our walk together. I look forward to leading the huddle the next couple years to build relationship and genuine trust through teaching, praying, encouraging these athletes. Ultimately, we want to empower disciples who go out to make more disciples, teaching them not just to come partake in Church but to actively be THE CHURCH!

Future Leaders . I currently lead the huddle. While we have no student leaders just yet, I believe that next year we will have a few ready and empowered to lead. Many of these athletes say they love the huddle. Specifically, they say they love how it has challenged them to live a godly life and has been an encouragement to help them want to share there faith.

Infact, one of the kids in the group was able to share the Gospel with one of his friends for the first time.

How to pray. Please pray that these athletes will become a part of the local body when they go home for the summer and continue to grow in their faith and walk with Jesus.

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

March Stories: E3 in Action

llawson@fca.org (Lindsey Lawson) — Sat, 02 Apr 2022 00:02:41 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Engage: Post Season FCA
Equip: Sheridan Huddle
Empower: FCA Leader Brady Schaefer

Feel free to keep reading!

FCA Post Season Tournament was a blast!

Here is a great way for engaging Athletes on campus. Engaging with the Heart begins with making connections and building relationships. We can't think of a better way than with some intense competition on the court!!

Read what FCA Staff Kevin Cates has to say about this event with nearly 100 high school student/athletes from across Laramie County attended the event and had a great time – good, clean fun on a Friday night:

About the event. The idea for the postseason event came from a similar event put on by the Central huddle in 2011 – FCA overtime. Overtime was held after a basketball game and attracted 125 Central students.

I decided to make the postseason event for all Laramie County student athletes and hold it at the end of the winter sports season.

The event was held Friday March 18 in the Central Commons and Fieldhouse. The event was planned and hosted by the Laramie County FCA ministry team and the Central huddle leadership team. The evening began with a meal by every teen’s favorite, Chick-fil-A, followed by dodgeball, volleyball, and cornhole tournaments.

The evening was capped off by the powerful testimony of former UW wrestler Kyle Pope. Kyle included an outstanding presentation of the gospel in his testimony.

Teamwork . I know this event was for the students, but God acted in a powerful way for me personally. My family and I had a medical emergency the day of the event.

With the preparation that went into the event and the assistance of the ministry team and Central leadership, the event went on as planned, mostly in my absence.

This demonstrated the power of the body of Christ working together to carry out His plan! Watch this video created by State Director Karsten Sween below.

Building Trust...for everyone. As the event approached, there were very few kids registered to participate. There was concern about attendance and the opportunity to reach students with the Gospel. Was a great lesson for student and adult leaders about trusting God and surrendering to the power of the Holy Spirit that He would bring students according to his will! As stated earlier, nearly 100 in attendance!

One major success was that the event went on and was well attended. There were many in attendance that may have clearly heard the gospel for the first time. Many of our stronger team leaders who do not participate in FCA, were exposed to FCA and the message of the gospel in a way they may, according to God’s will, respond to.

A volunteer from Burns brought 6 kids to participate. They said that they really enjoyed it when they got to the playing. It was also fun for them to play against kids from other schools.

"The speaker at the end did a great job. His testimony resonates well with kids and adults. I think all of us have struggled with anger and struggled with sin that keeps coming back," the volunteer said. "I really liked his perspective on it and his willingness to share his battle with sin along with the redemption Jesus gives. It was good for me to briefly touch base with other adults who are in FCA ministry. I would welcome more of those chances."

Wrapping it up. Kevin concludes, " We pray that these leaders will learn to lead in a positive, Christ-like manner. Another major success was simply watching kids have a lot of fun and fellowship in positive atmosphere covered by the protection of the Holy Spirit.

Hearing the gospel message from someone they can relate to always has an impact on kids this age.

The potential to raise up strong student leaders will have an impact moving forward. These leaders will be discipled to be strong ambassadors for Christ in their schools and on their teams."

Sharing God's Word in Sheridan.

Equipping Athletes and Coaches means growing in community and in the Word together. Our Volunteers do this with resources like the Four, the Core and Discovery Series - devotions designed to get them closer to God and each other.

But have you ever wondered how that looks exactly with a FCA Huddle? Read about this Sheridan Huddle to find out what makes their Huddle keep going strong.

Darin Gilbertson serves as a football coach Huddle Leader in Sheridan. He was featured in 2019 about his role as our FCA Camp Black Hills Camp Coach. Read more about it HERE . And keep reading below to hear what has been happening with this Sheridan Huddle in his own words:

How it's going. This is my seventh year with our huddle. It was going strong when I got there. Now, we have several coaches who help lead our Huddle consistently.

We split it up in several ways - one will grab doughnuts, one will lead the game/activity, and one will give the message. It all depends on the sports seasons we are in as well - we cover for each other all year.

We meet every other Friday from 7:30-8:05am. We have doughnuts and visit for 5+ mins while we wait for everyone to get there. Kids will hang out and visit during this time. Then we will play some sort of large group game for about ten minutes or so before we get into the message. For the last two years, we have tried to encourage our junior high students to lead messages (with the help of our adults).

We have also invited several Sheridan high school FCA leaders to come down and share with us as well and talk about the impact FCA has made in their lives.

Vision for the Huddle. We want to continue to grow our huddle and help build our leaders so they are equipped to not only help lead our large group huddle, but they can lead their individual team huddles, as well as make an impact in our hallways and classrooms.

*Thank you, Darin and all volunteers for all that you do!

Encouraging Athletes to lead the study or share their testimony remains one of the most pivotal ways to EMPOWER those leaders. We can't wait to hear how Camp also impacts Athletes attending from Sheridan this summer!

Meet FCA Leader Brady Schaefer.

Leading Ministry through FCA means you are making leaders who lead. This is a powerful vision of God's kingdom fulfilled in this call to and through Coaches and Athletes.

Meet FCA Empowered Leader Brady Schaefer. As assistant golf and boys' varsity basketball coach, he also hosts a coach's huddle in his room, helped lead the boys' basketball huddle and starting up a golf huddle this spring:

I was empowered to do this ministry when I saw the benefit it had for our coaches and student athletes. Here in Pinedale, Wyoming, we meet every other week as coaches, and at least once a week with our athletes.

I very quickly saw a mind shift in our athletes and coaches and immediately knew I wanted to get more involved with FCA. I was never a part of FCA throughout high school but had several friends who were.

Looking back, I wish I had gotten involved sooner.

Accepting the Invite. I became a follower of Christ within the last six years. When I met my wife, Laura, six years ago, she invited me to go to her church with her family and I thought “Sure, why not?!”

The message that was delivered that Sunday forever changed my life. I owe her credit for a lot of things, and this is definitely one that tops the list. If it weren’t for God putting her in my life, I am not sure where I would be today.

I eventually became involved with FCA through some coworkers. It started with me sitting in on some FCA meetings

that some other teachers were doing. When

I saw how much of an impact it made on our students, I decided to start hosting an FCA meeting once a week at lunch in my classroom.

Huddling up. The huddle meetings are always so amazing to be a part of. The one thing that never stops amazing me is how student athletes lean on each other and build each other up. The students that attend our huddles are always our student athletes that become leaders on and off the court.

I would say to get involved earlier rather than later, and do not be scared to “dive right in.”

For Future Volunteers . I was a little hesitant to step into the role of an FCA leader, but I am sure glad I did. Our FCA leader has really opened my eyes to how many people, we as coaches, can bring closer to Christ. It is truly remarkable how much of an impact we can make on the

lives of young students.

*Thank you, Brady and all other volunteers for all that you do!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

February FCA Stories: E3 in action

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 15:37:57 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Engage: FCA Alpine Ski Huddle
Equip: Winter Camp 2022
Empower: FCA Leader Erich Hulshizer

Feel free to keep reading!

FCA Pinedale Alpine Ski Huddle Takes Off.

Engaging with athletes and coaches means making connections and getting to the Heart of Sport. For the newly organized Alpine Ski Team Huddle in Pinedale, this has been an exciting opportunity to engage with their teammates and share the Gospel.

Keep reading below an interview from one of the Huddle Leaders River Dauwen. She played high school soccer and skied on the Pinedale teams. As a volunteer, her journey with FCA has certainly come full circle. She had helped lead on the FCA Pinedale Leadership Team, as well with the Star Valley Soccer Power Camp a few years ago as a high school student.

Read in River's own words how she and volunteers are engaging with athletes on campus and in the community:

How It Started. "The alpine ski huddle got started right before Christmas break. I came to practice to announce it starting and I asked a question for everyone to ponder.

'What is the most important thing about you?' This question really goes straight to the heart of what is your identity? How you see yourself?"

It is an especially important question for Christians. Our immediate response should be our identity in Christ; but life can sometimes get the better of us and our answer is an identity rooted in the world."

How It's Going. " Our meeting generally starts by just chatting about how practice and the most recent race has gone as well as what's happening in their lives. Eventually, we will transition into prayer to prepare for a short devotional."

"I try my best to make the devotional very practical and applicable to all aspects of life. It’s more of a conversation about a biblical topic than anything else. After we finish the huddle, we end in prayer and head home!"

Volunteers and Leaders. "Coach Dylan Bear has been an incredible encouragement to both the students and myself. He has been at almost every meeting with some thought provoking questions ready to go.

Katie LaBuda from the FCA school leadership team has also been a big part of getting this huddle going! She has stepped up to motivate other athletes to come and be willing to learn.

Allison Gregory is another student who has been essential to our huddle. She is a steady and consistent presence at our meetings who always has a wise insight or practical application to share."

Vision for the Huddle. "The vision for this huddle is to help these student athletes integrate Christ into their practices, races and time spent with their team. We want to bring Christ into their daily activities through teaching practical applications of Scripture and helping them notice opportunities to show God's love to others.

Skiing can be difficult to stand firm for the Lord in because of the culture of the sport. I know what a struggle it is. I want them to be more prepared and supported than I was!"

Winter Camp to Refresh and Reflect.

Over MLK weekend Northern Colorado and Wyoming, staff all gathered in the scenic Estes Park at the YMCA of the Rockies for a weekend focused on Sabbath. 50 athletes attended from 17 different high schools!

Why Winter Camp?

We wanted our Student Athletes to grow closer to God as Christians. Winter is the perfect time to slow down and focus on God more. If you've been to FCA Camp, you know all about the fun we always have, the new relationships we build, competition, and developing as athletes.

Winter Camp was just that with the fellowship and fun. However, it was also about slowing down to get to know God and ourselves better. As athletes, we must rest to let our bodies recover so we can compete again.

But what about our souls? What about our minds?

Our FCA WY State Director Karsten Sween spent time speaking on this important topic through their time there. "They need rest, too! Winter Camp teaches our athletes the special day of rest - the Sabbath," Karsten Sween shares on Winter Camp.

Feel free to watch the video below to learn more and hear the impact on these Student Athletes from Wyoming and Colorado.

Meet our FCA Empowered Leader

Empowering our Leaders to share the Gospel and make Disciples truly fulfills FCA's vision and mission to: To see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes and to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

We recruit and train our FCA Leaders to go out into their sports and campus communities to be positive influences and impact their teammates and peers. We pray that even their coaches will be affected by their love for Jesus and growth as Athletes!

FCA Empowered Leader in Casper. Meet our FCA Empowered Leader Erich Hulshizer, who leads 7th grade CCA Huddle with our Huddle Leader Volunteers. In addition, he helps lead the Kelly Walsh football, boys swimming and soccer huddles.

As a Kelly Walsh Junior, Erich plays football, soccer and diving. He was also awarded by the Wyoming Coaches Association the 2021 all-state football honors as Defense Back for Kelly Walsh.

"As a stud ent leader, I talk to people whenever I am able to about God's love." - Eric Hulshizer

He initially got involved with FCA as a result of a Ministry Leader from CCA talking to him about FCA in middle school.

" I have always been in church my whole life and became a Christian when I was young. My favorite verse is Romans 12:1," shares Erich. " FCA has helped me grow because I have become closer to God. Some ways I grew in my faith was because it helped me understand that I am pretty good at talking to people about God and has helped me want to become a youth pastor."

Pray for our Leaders. When asked how FCA Team can pray for him, Erich says, "You can pray for me by asking God to keep me from distractions and help me stay focused on what He wants for my life and to give me confidence in whatever I do for Him ."

January Stories: E3 in Action

llawson@fca.org (Lindsey Lawson) — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 18:09:38 GMT

Hello! Welcome to E3 in Action stories.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Engage: First Ever Hockey Clinic in Sheridan
Equip: Worland Huddle with Record Numbers
Empower: An Athlete Leader leading Others to Christ

Feel free to keep reading!

FCA Hockey Clinic in Sheridan

This last December we had our first FCA Hockey Clinic in Sheridan. We wanted to engage with young athletes by hosting a two-day hockey clinic where athletes could get positive instruction on the ice and in life.

We had 30 athletes in ages ranging from 8 to 15 and 10 adults help lead the event!

Building Trust and Sharing Life. Our goal was to engage with student athletes and coaches by focusing on building relationships and introducing the Gospel. We also wanted the clinic to provide skilled instruction, with lots of fun and interesting games.

Even though we were met with the challenge of our Head Clinician becoming ill and cancelling - through God's provision, we secured a clinician from Buffalo and also recruited several athletes from the junior pro-team the Sheridan Hawks. Best of all, we also shared the Gospel!

All in all, this Hockey clinic was a fantastic way to reach out to youth in the community and give them an experience that will help them as athletes.

So, what does engaging in relationships look like at these FCA Events?

FCA Staff Cameron shared how he saw God working through this event: "I noticed there was a young athlete who struggled with dry land training and needed some extra one on one.

However, as soon as he hit the ice everything changed. His attention and focus came together. It was very clear he had a natural ability. He just needed some encouragement and direction.

Over the next day and a half, I had the pleasure of working with him. What started out looking like an athlete, with a struggle to focus and commit, ended up teaching all of us to expect the unexpected and to be willing to reach athletes where they are!"

It's stories like this one that demonstrate the importance of engaging with Athletes and Coaches in our Wyoming communities. We want Athletes and Coaches to feel valued and seen. Check out more FCA WY events and ways to Engage through our Ministry HERE .

Worland Huddles

Despite Covid putting Huddles on hold last year, Worland Huddles have started up again, hitting the ground and running strong. Our Staff Brittany Miller and Volunteers use these meetings as an opportunity to get Student Athletes more into the Word and gain support in their Christian walk. Meetings average beteen 30 to even sometimes 60 Student Athletes.

How exactly does this equipping work in Worland Huddles?

For the Worland middle school huddle, their doors are open to anyone and everyone on a weekly basis. We have lunch together, fellowship, go through a devotional , have students share and always make time for FUN.

Christ Centered Training. For the Worland High School, their huddle meets on Wednesdays during lunch. Our high school huddle has re-grouped this year with a brand-new leadership team. This week they brought in a guest speaker to share a devotional, Jesus Davila. He is a HS Math teacher and our assistant boys soccer coach.

Support to Grow. Our huddle at the HS has also focused on the FCA Creed and digging into the Bible this fall. They have really grown as leaders through discipleship thanks to a local pastor, Jess Rollema. They have an agenda of guest speakers for this new semester, with Coach Davila as the first speaker kicking off 2022.

Equipping through our Huddle ministry like in Worland proves to be a huge way to postively influence Student Athletes in their Sport and schools. These disciples are on their way to becoming bold Leaders who will go out and make more Disciples.

We also can't wait to see the impact of our Black Hills Camp for those going from Worland this summer.

FCA Leader Emily Cable

Seeing our discipleship process go full circle, as FCA leader go out and make disciples encourage and inspires us all! This Empowering story from Emily Cable (FCA ministry leader and UWYO staff ) really testifies to the Holy Spirit moving through lives of Athletes and Coaches in Wyoming!

"It was amazing to see the whole community for FCA come together for her...planting those seeds along the way."

Listen below to hear her whole experience leading another Athlete to Christ.

Empowering FCA Leaders to make disciples truly embodies the Vision and Mission of FCA in Wyoming. With every FCA Leader equipped and empowered, we believe that Athletes just like Emily can make a big difference in the hearts and lives of others.

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

Champions in Christ: Highlights from Cheyenne Night of Champions

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 21:14:41 GMT

2021 Night of Champions in Cheyenne was an incredible time to encourage and challenge Community to be Champions in Christ.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about our 2021 Night of Champions in Cheyenne, Wyoming this October:

Highlights of the Night

Golden Opportunity for the Gospel

Celebrating our Champions

Feel free to keep reading!

Highlights of the Night

This October, Our Night of Champions in Cheyenne took place at Cheyenne Hills Church Auditorium.

After a year of virtual ministry and cancelled events in 2020, seats filled with close to 150 attendees (close to 200 reached online and over 50 live views) was an amazing experience.

It really hit home that our FCA Team - volunteers, student athlete leaders, staff, and other leaders - play such an important role in serving the Body of Christ. And not just in Laramie County but around the State in our Sport Ministry.

Images by High Value Photography 2021.

We heard from Keira Walsh, East volleyball huddle leader; Cole Manlove, Burns XCountry/track coach and our Staff Kevin Cates on the impact of FCA in Laramie County.

FCA Wyoming was also honored to have 3 Time Gold Medalist Leah O'Brien-Amico join us for the public program.

With her Olympic experience, sports and coaching background, and love for Jesus - O'Brien-Amico shared an inspiring message and challenged athletes in the room to become Champions in Christ.

In fact, several in attendance heard the Gospel Message and asked to make a commitment to Christ.

After the program, O'Brien-Amico took photos with attendees, giving them an opportunity to even wear her gold medals. The look on their faces said it all. It truly was an once in a lifetime experience for most of us!

"We all got to 'feel like a champion’ by having our picture taken with Leah and wear a real gold medal – the closest I’ll ever come to a gold medal!" said Kevin Cates, the host and the Area Rep for FCA Cheyenne and Laramie County, when asked about the event.

We would like to thank the Cheyenne Ministry Team, our Director Karsten Sween, Volunteers, Student Leaders, Wyoming Staff, Staff Kevin Cates and the Cheyenne Hills Church Tech Team for bringing this event together for our Sports and Faith Community.

"The night was an incredible success, as God showed up in a powerful way, and community members were encouraged to be champions for the Kingdom!" said Cates.

Here is more about the Night of Champs...

Keynote Speaker: LEAH O’BRIEN-AMICO

USA SOFTBALL OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST 1996, 2000, 2004

Keynote Speaker
ESPN Analyst for College Softball *2007-current
Westwood Radio Analyst for Finals at the Women’s College World Series *2012-current
Author: Softball, Glory & God’s Story
Softball Clinician

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

3-Time Olympic Gold Medalist (USA Softball: 1996, 2000, 2004)
2-Time World Champion (1998, 2002)
2-Time Pan-American Games Champion (1999, 2003)
3-Time NCAA National Champion (University of Arizona; 1993, 1994, 1997)
National Softball Hall of Fame Honoree in 2009
University of Arizona Hall of Fame Honoree in 2002

FEATURED IN

Magazines: Brio (Cover), Sports Spectrum, Victory, Cover of Sports Illustrated with 2004 Olympic Gold Medal Softball Team
Back of Golden Crispix Cereal Box (2000)

Kick Offs for FCA - Get Your Team Together!

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 16:05:06 GMT

Get the your FCA Team together for Huddle Ministry Start ups and Events with the new school year and sports seasons!

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post the Pursue Theme Resources/Tools for building leaders and doing Huddle Ministry this Fall. Plus some events to look out for!

Keep reading...

With Huddle ministries starting and continuing, now is a great time to read more about the Pursue Theme we are focusing on in FCA. This will help Volunteers and Leaders like you align with FCA Vision and Mission as you Share the Gospel and Make Diciples with athletes and coaches.

Feel Free to read these Pursue Articles from FCA in Action:

https://www.fca.org/fca-in-action/blog-detail/2021/08/02/do-the-work-draft-the-team

https://www.fca.org/fca-in-action/blog-detail/2021/09/07/what-it's-worth-commit-to-the-team

Get your Team Going!

Certify or re-certify your Huddles. Why certifiy your Huddle(s)?

This will give you the official liability, ministry tools and staff connection needed to help you be successful with your FCA campus, coach, and community ministry! Go to this form and fill out so we can update your information and keep connected and equipped. https://www.fcawyoming.org/huddle-recertification

Get Trained in the E3 process. Why do the training?

E3 Training gets your spiritual muscles ready for ministry. It involves engaging, equipping, and empowering Coaches and Athletes across all our ministry environments and with our ministry tools. Ask your local Staff for more info!

Direct Potential Leaders to the Student MLA forms.

We have changed up the SALT forms (Student Athlete Leadership Teams) to simply Student MLA forms. This link directs you straight to the process with less clicking and searching through the process.

https://mla.fca.org/?mla=other

Check out what is happening!

Tools for the TEAM!

New YouVersion Plan

Are you looking for new and fresh biblically based resources to share with your coaches and athletes? Good news! We have a new YouVersion plan releasing in this month of ministry! You can use these plans to help engage, equip and empower your spheres of influence as we continue to progress through 2021. To access FCA’s reading plans, visit https://www.bible.com/search/plans?q=fca or https://app.bible.com/fca for mobile.

A New Season, A New Plan ( https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/27368/ )

Are you feeling anxious or fearful for this new season of competition, unsure of what to expect? If you go back to the basics of God’s Word, we are reminded of key fundamental truths about Jesus: He is for us. He is with us. He will guide us. He has already won for us. Dive into this four-day plan to get encouraged in this new season of play.

New Resources from Cross Training Publishing

From FCA: Are you looking for more resources for ministry? Cross Training Publishing has five new books written by FCA Staff including, Ryan Limbaugh, Bryan McKenzie and Sarah Roberts. Ryan serves with FCA in Alabama, while Bryan serves with FCA in the Midwest region and Sarah in Atlanta. They have written three new Bible studies for coaches or coaches wives based on The Book of James , The Book of Proverbs and The Book of Philippians .

Cross Training is now shipping athlete editions for these studies as well.

Former FCA Staff Coach Ron Brown, Gordon Thiessen and Rod Handley have teamed up for this year’s FCA Team Workouts on Character Volume #1 . The lessons are geared for both coaches and athletes and include Coach Brown’s training video for teams. This resource includes 16 character lessons, which is perfect for a full season with teams.

Coach Brown and Gordon also teamed up with Wes Neal and others to produce Doing Sports God’s Way . It’s a handbook that includes Wes Neal’s groundbreaking biblical principles for competition for coaches and athletes. You can find many more resources at Cross Training Publishing.

Hope this helps, see you at these events!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

Closing out July with PURSUE TEAM Highlights.

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 17:09:11 GMT

Read all about our Sports Ministry happenings in July as we Pursue TEAM with lots of Power Camps, Volunteers and lots of fun.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post highlights from the month of July and how we pursued TEAM this summer.

Keep reading...

First FCA Jasckson Hole Power Camp was a Slam Dunk!

From Andrea Largey, Jackson Hole Staff:

The Jackson Hole Power Camp was a lot of fun! It was the first-ever FCA camp in Jackson! God is so good and provided us with all we needed and more. We had many volunteers who selflessly gave their time and/or resources to help make this camp a wonderful experience for all the campers.

The campers seemed to have taken away some new basketball skills and/or a new love for the game.

They also took away a powerful message from Brian Hunter, our speaker, and they learned about FCA's values and how to implement them on the court. We are looking forward to next summer's Power Camp and to see how FCA grows throughout the year.

From Jim Hamilton, FCA Staff:

On July 27th FCA in Jackson held its first ever FCA Power Camp directed by Andrea Largey. A Power Camp is local day sport camp for 8-12 year-olds. This year basketball was the featured sport. 21 campers attended and we had help at the Classical Academy gym. Wes Clark and Jennifer Green and several other volunteers helped lead the camp.

It was a combination of skill development and fun games. Several older athletes who attended camp at the FCA Camp at Black Hills State shared their camp experience and Pastor Bryan from Tribe Church was the camp chaplain. He shared how to pursue God at the beginning and end of camp.

Special shout out to parents and volunteers for making this possible and look forward to more days and sports next year!

We also had a baseball clinic (Power Camp) in Star Valley with Staff Rhen Etzmiller. We will share more soon about it!

Lots of Turnout and FCA TEAM Impact for Laramie Power Camp!

From Aaron Frude, University of WY FCA Director and FCA Laramie:

We got out on the pitch this July and on the court for some more FCA power camp fun with coach Anthony Johnson , coach Karsten and Kyliegh Hiser , and Jaimie Fortman on basketball and coach Sean Ennist , Carlos Herrera, Jayla Wulff on soccer.

Awesome to have Karsten Sween bring the message again and coach Brian Fortman wrap up camp with some team builders.

New for this year was the dunk tank which the kids loved courtesy of Tim Snowbarger and the Laramie Connections team! We love working with such an awesome team of volunteers and local churches to put on a great event for the kids in our community! #EngageEquipEmpower

From Stacy Frude, UWYO Campus Rep and FCA Laramie:

Laramie Power Camp got off to a good start. On Day 1, 3rd-6th grade campers honed their volleyball and football skills with the help of local coaches and support from high school and UW athletes.

During the snack break campers heard from Laramie track legend and current UW runner Emmy Johnson about how athletics and even injury have helped her grow in her relationship with God.

Camp speaker and former UW quarterback Karsten Sween shared a simple but powerful message about four spiritual truths: God loves us and created us for a purpose, sin separates us from God in this life and in eternity, Jesus rescues us from the detrimental effects of sin and provides the way for us to go to heaven, and everyone is faced with the question of how they will respond to this message.

Wrapped up the final day of Laramie FCA Power Camp with boys playing soccer and girls on the court. After another hot day Laramie Fire Department showed up to cool us down with their hoses and Snowy Range Baptist Church provided snow cones.

What an awesome team effort as 6 different churches in town provided and served food for the kids and volunteers and many others from the community helped make this effort possible. Love the opportunity to work together to show God’s love to these kids.

Everyone will sle ep well tonight! #Pursue

Power Camp in Casper was a Community and FCA TEAM success!

From Casper FCA:

Yesterday was Day 1 of our 3rd-6th grade FCA camp! We have 80+ kids registered! Campers are participating in volleyball, basketball, track, football, soccer, and indoor PE games! We’ve been blessed with amazing volunteers and the kids are having a ball!

Our camp theme is PURSUE Jesus and always give 100% through sacrifice, surrendering, and surrounding yourself with like minded people. #1Timothy6 #PowerCamp2021 #FCAPursue @307_fca

Day 2 of Casper FCA Power Camp! Thank you to all the amazing huddle leaders and coaches for volunteering your time to pour into these awesome kids! Campers are learning about sacrifice and how God sacrificed his life for us!

Day 3- Final day of camp! What an awesome week! Campers wrapped up their day with ice cream and a surprise fire truck cool down! We’re already looking forward to 2022 camp! #FCA # PowerCamp2021

Stay Equipped with July Resources

Check out all these article to equip and empower:

https://www.fca.org/fca-in-action/blog-detail/2021/07/12/confident-standing-firm

https://www.fca.org/fca-in-action/2021/07/26/service-acts-of-care

https://www.fca.org/fca-in-action/blog-detail/2021/07/06/take-assessment-evaluate-the-team

Coming up in August!

Staff are getting ready for fall semester and sports seasons! We will be helping our Huddle Leaders and Volunteers prep for fall events, huddles and more....

Watch Our Latest and Newest Black Hills Sports Camp Video!

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 22:16:28 GMT

Check out the newest and latest video from our Sports Camp 2021!

This video showcases Staff Randy Larson from Casper, WY, Student Athlete testimonies, and the awesomeness of God moving in the hearts of Athletes and Coaches at FCA Camp. Take a look below at the impact from Camp!

CHECK OUT THESE ARTICLES FROM FCA IN ACTION. FCA journalist Sarah Freymeuth documented her time at Camp 2021 and shared photos and interviews with our Black Hills Campers and Staff nationwide and globally on fca.org!

More incredible things are happening in our great State of Wyoming! We want our Campers to go back into their communities and Teams to make disciples and share the Gospel in the next coming school year and sports seasons. This is just the beginning!

Read more about what else is happening around our State and at Camp with these articles.

Will you help us see the world AND WYOMING transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes?

Financial gifts contribute to the sustainability of FCA in Wyoming.

Visit our SUPPORT FCA WY page to make a donation today!

Have you heard about FCA's Daily Impact Play? Follow on Twitter or sign up for emails. These daily devos are a great way to grow individually or with your Huddle.

Time for Exams of the Heart in May

Mon, 03 May 2021 14:48:15 GMT

This May, with end of sports seasons for some and final exams for schools year, it is the right time to EXAMINE the HEART.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post Huddle Ministry in May:

Examine the Heart Article
More about Camp
Pursue and FCA Resources

Keep reading...

This May Pursue Life and Examine your Heart's condition.

FCA IN ACTION > BE INTENTIONAL: EXAMINE YOUR HEART

Published on May 03, 2021

SARAH FREYMUTH

In April, we talked about what it means to Open Your Heart. When you open your heart to God, yourself and to hope, He gives more of Himself and transforms your life to live in the fullness He offers through Jesus Christ.

This month, we dig into what it looks like to Examine Your Heart and remain in a heart posture that seeks to understand the “whys” behind our goals.

"Understanding our place on God’s team allows us to redirect our efforts to encourage and help others."

Here are some other ways for Student Athlete Leaders and FCA Volunteers to PURSUE LIFE and examine their hearts this May...

1) Consider FCA Camp.

WHEN: June 23-26 2021

Check in at 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23rd.

WHERE: Black Hills State University Spearfish, SD

COST: $375 all sports $475 for Golf All unpaid fees are due prior to or upon check-in at camp.

SPORTS OFFERED:

Girls Volleyball

Boys Basketball Girls Basketball
Boys Football

Boys/Girls Track and Field

Boys/Girls Tennis Soccer

Boys/Girls XC Swimming

Boys/Girls Golf

Boys Wrestling

2) Keep going with the Core.

Join us as we journey through Pursuing Life and prepare to Examine Your Heart.

One way to openly engage with your heart is through FCA’s The CORE , a journey through eight essentials on how to engage in God’s Word, be equipped in the basics of faith and be empowered to help others grow in Jesus Christ. Bring a friend along and join the journey!

3) Make time for May Discovery Series. Read and study with Student Athlete Leaders or Huddles.

DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY SETS

The table in this series below provides you with topics/stories and verses that can guide you as you read through the Bible this May and explore your new life in Christ. The passages do not need to be studied in any particular order, so feel free to select the studies that would work best for you and your group over this next month. PURSUE LIFE: EXAMINE YOUR HEART As you read through these studies, take a look inside your heart and better understand the “whys” driving your pursuits. Allow God to examine your heart so He can show you areas of your life that need to change.

4) Take a Look at Other Resources.

Be on the lookout each Monday during April through June for "Monday Motivation," an amplified version of the Daily Impact Play on social media. On Facebook and Instagram stories, we will highlight the Daily Impact Play in a new, innovative way. - @TheFCATeam

FCA on youtube also has a great series running call True Life Sessions. Take a look below!

Read FCA WY Blog.

Be sure to check out our blog and emails for latest updates and information as we PURSUE Truth and Read the Truth this month !

The Daily Impact Play is one of many great tools and resources your coaches, athletes, and other volunteers can engage with as they Pursue Truth.

*If you read this article and aren’t in relationship with Christ yet but would like to know more, we invite you to go through FCA’s The FOUR that explains how an everlasting and fulfilling life with God is possible.

Blessings,

FCA WY

April is all About Life - Pursue Life!

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 19:21:14 GMT

The Pursue Theme for 2021 continues into getting ready for Camp. This April, we pursue Life. And we can't think of a better time than celebrating the Resurrection and Eternal Life of Jesus and focusing on the Life giving experience at FCA Camp.

How do you Pursue Life? April thru June, we take the Truth we have been pursuing and make it Real in Life.

BE HONEST: OPEN YOUR HEART

Published on April 05, 2021

SARAH FREYMUTH

Life has often been counted not by the measure of breaths we take or moments experienced, but by the ticking of a game clock or hours and days dedicated to practices, driving to tournaments and the stretch of sports season after sports season. We pursue a life of athletics because it feels born in us, or a sweet surprise we’ve gratefully stumbled into. And we honor this life by giving as much of ourselves to it as we can.

Through long nights of film, early morning weightlifting and building camaraderie as a team, life has meant dedication to honing our skills and setting our sights on scholarship, the next level and personal bests.

As competitors, we’re wired for life on the field. But where is our eternal focus? How can we give our all while in pursuit of an abundant life God says we can have?

We dive in and bring God into our hearts’ motivations. We Pursue Life with everything we’ve got. We run after it. We’re intentional with it.

Over the next quarter, we’ll explore what it means to Pursue Life. Over the next three months, each of these themes connect to engage in intentional pursuit of God and His great call on our lives.

Total Victory: Finding Freedom at the Cross

5 Days

You sacrifice your time and energy to compete for your teams every season. The pressures of your performance feel like they're riding on your shoulders. But did you know that Jesus Christ, the Redeemer, has already sacrificed His life, risen and defeated any burden you’ll face? As you continue to compete this season, remember the Cross and worship the fact that Jesus has defeated death and redeemed our sin.

3) Take a Look at Other Resources.

Read other Resources and Articles on Pursue Life/Pursue Theme 2021.

Be Certain: Open Your Heart To Hope (fca.org)

Read FCA WY Blog.

Be sure to check out our blog and emails for latest updates and information as we PURSUE Truth and Read the Truth this month!

Go to FCA.ORG for these videos and articles or watch for updates on Instagram and Facebook @fcawyoming @thefcateam

FCA on youtube also has a great series running call True Life Sessions. Take a look below!

4) Keep reading Truth Daily! Sign up and Check your Daily Impact Devotions emailed straight to you.

The Daily Impact Play is one of many great tools and resources your coaches, athletes, and other volunteers can engage with as they Pursue Truth.

How can you utilize the Daily Impact Play in your ministry?

Share the Daily Impact Play on Facebook and Twitter by following @TheFCATeam and @fcawyoming on Facebook and Twitter .
Direct Athletes and Coaches to Daily Impact Play sign up here .
Share FCA’s new Monday Motivation series found @TheFCATeam

Blessings,

FCA WY

Your Camp Guide to Everything FCA CAMP 2021

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 17:49:34 GMT

We are excited to announce that our BHSU Sports Camp is on for June 2021! If you are new to FCA Camp or it's been awhile, check out our information and resources below to get you (or your camper) ready for FCA CAMP!

WHEN: June 23-26 2021

Check in at 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23rd.

WHERE: Black Hills State University Spearfish, SD

COST: $375 all sports $475 for Golf All unpaid fees are due prior to or upon check-in at camp.

SPORTS OFFERED:

*Girls Volleyball *Boys Basketball *Girls Basketball * Boys Football *Girls/Boys Track and Field

*Girls/Boys Tennis *Girls/Boys Soccer *Girls/Boys XC *Girls/Boys Swimming *Girls/Boys Golf *Boys Wrestling

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post our latest update and announcement regarding our Black Hills Sports Camp this June 2021:

Scholarship Information
Resources and More about Camp
Registration

Keep reading for all you need to know about Camp 2021 in Northern Black Hills...

1) What kind of financial assistance does this Camp offer?

If you want to register for Camp - Check out Scholarships FIRST.

FCA, across our multi-States, wants student Athletes - who have the desire go to FCA Camp and also need financial assistance - to attend Camp 2021!

Each State office and scholarship process works differently. So be sure to check out your State's scholarship options and contact local staff for more info before registration if this is a need for your camper.

If you have financial need and will be requesting financial assistance in order to attend Camp - please fill out the scholarship form BEFORE registering.

If approved for financial assistance, you will need to use these "coupon" codes at registration to have funds applied to your remaining balance.

Go to this link for more scholarship information (this information may or may not be available on these sites, contact your FCA in South Dakota or Nebraska for the most accurate and updated info):

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR BHSU FCA CAMP

2) It's first time going...what's Camp like?

Take a look at Resources. Our CAMP VIDEOS and BLOG POSTS for the big picture.

While you're waiting to hear back on your scholarship or if you would like to find out more information, here is a list of some helpful articles and media to get the full picture of FCA Camp at BHSU.

Last year we had to make the difficult decision to can CAMP. We are so excited to have Camp going again. We miss our FCA TEAM. We miss Sport. We miss the Fellowship! But, it is also good to be prepared as 2020 taught us - for anything! Read more HERE>

Okay! Now for the fellowship and competition that makes CAMP awesome.

Here is a list of things to read and things to watch to get ready for an epic CAMP 2021! And be sure to follow us on FB and Instagram to see Camp 2021 in real time! We will be sharing Camp photos with hashtags #fcacampblackhills

Check out Instagram Stories and Highlights, follow along on Facebook ...

Read on the Blog Posts about Camp...

Watch our Camp Videos over the years...

3) How do we register for Camp if we are ready?

Hit the REGISTER button or go to link. Apply scholarship in COUPON codes if necessary. Pay and Check email.

One more thing...

Here's A Glance at the Itinerary:

Transportation: Campers are responsible for their own transportation to and from Camp.

Eastern WYO Campers: round trip bus traveling from Cheyenne, WY, making stops in Douglas and

Gillette. To make reservations on this bus. Email is the best way craiggueswel@gmail.com

Big Horn Basin Wyoming Bus: round trip bus traveling from Powell, Wyoming making stops in Worland, Thermopolis and Shoshoni. Fremont County campers are welcome to ride. If interested and want more information email Jim at:

jhamilton@fca.org

Nebraska Campers: visit our website www.panhandlenefca.org or contact our office 661-205-8626 or 308-641-5642 for more information.

South Dakota Campers: visit our website southdakotafca.org or contact our office 605-335-7555 for more information.

Read more about What to Bring and more on the Enrollment Confirmation Letter on fcawyoming.org

When you are ready, feel free to register your Camper! Once your registration is complete, check your email for information regarding Camp and your Camper. Included will be an Enrollment Confirmation Letter, which you can also find for reference on CAMP page. The letter includes check in, fees, daily activities, what to bring and transportation.

See you there!

Easter 2021 Reflections and Resources

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 23:16:37 GMT

As we enter into Easter weekend, starting with Good Friday - here is a read from FCA Daily Impact Play to remind us of Life from Jesus' Resurrection Power.

How do you Pursue Life? April thru May, we take the Truth we have been pursuing and make it Real in Life.

And what better way to do this than start with Easter and the Truth that Christ has died and Risen for us!

From Daily Impact Play

The Dragon Is No Match for the Lamb

BY SCOTT STAAL MARCH 31, 2021

READY

“And the dragon was angry at the woman and declared war against the rest of her children—all who keep God’s commandments and maintain their testimony of Jesus.” -- Revelation 12:17

SET

We live in a world at war. You and I have an Enemy, Satan. He is real. Right now, a constant spiritual battle is being waged in your life with intentions to “steal and kill and destroy” ( John 10:10, NLT ).

Stop there. Do you believe this? Have you come to the realization that there is more going on than what you can see?

As Christ-followers, we tend to dismiss happenstance occurrences of “luck” and “coincidence.” Good things are quickly attributed to God and denoted as divine or even “blessings.” Yet, we don’t do the same for moments that go haywire, failing to remember that our Enemy has us in the crosshairs of an attack.

But the dragon is no match for the Lamb!

For the month of April, FCA focuses on how to Pursue Life and O pen Your Heart. We will posting more information and resources for our awesome Volunteers and Student Athlete Leaders. Thank you for all that you do and God bless.

- FCA Wyoming

P.S. If you would like to read more daily devotionals like the one above, please sign up below.

Will you prayerfully consider donating to FCA WY to impact and influence

34,000 Athletes & Coaches, 120 Campuses, and 70 Towns?

March: Reach for Truth and Accountability

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 17:58:47 GMT

You Pursue Truth with Reach for the Truth together. This March, we focus on iron sharpening iron in the life of an Athlete and Coach.

Wrapping up first quarter with Pursuit of Truth - Read. Pray. Reach.

FCA IN ACTION >

ACCOUNTABLE: REACH FOR TRUTH

Published on March 01, 2021

SARAH FREYMUTH

In February, we talked about what it means to Pray The Truth. Prayer connects us to God and others, comforts us in times of distress and conforms us to the image of Jesus Christ. The closer we come to God, the more we want to stay in His presence.

This month, we dig into what it looks like to Reach For Truth and find others who will hold us accountable in our faith journey.

There’s nothing more effective than a team that moves and acts as one unit. The teams where each player knows his or her role and embraces it, where coaches unify their players to play for the bigger picture and the field is full of a relaxed and confident atmosphere. These teams know their purpose and give their best for one another.

The same can be said for the importance of finding teammates in our daily faith walk. We need to come alongside each other to stand firm on the foundation of God, build one another up and be unified in Christ.

This February: Do you Pray the Truth?

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 00:14:48 GMT

You Pursue Truth with Pray the Truth. This February we focus on the power of prayer in the life of an Athlete and Coach.

Reminder to Pursue Truth in first quarter of 2021.

If you’re tired of pursuing material things that don’t last, consider these three steps that will help you pursue the ultimate Truth: Read the Truth, Pray the Truth, Reach for the Truth. Focus on this January-March!

Ready to pursue more? Pray the Truth this February.

For the month of February, FCA focuses on how to Pursue the Truth with Pray the Truth – Invite Jesus to come into your heart and rule as Lord over your life.

FCA IN ACTION > CONNECTED: PRAY THE TRUTH

Published on February 01, 2021

FCA

In January, we talked about what it means to Read The Truth. God’s Word is a road map, an anchor and a light, and the more we commit to knowing God’s Word, the more at peace we are and certain in times of trouble.

This month, we dig into what it looks like to Pray The Truth and communicate with God on more personal levels.

As athletes, we’re used to powering through on our own strength. For a team workout, we put in as much energy as possible to gain muscle and agility. For managing a full day of classes, practice, or travel for games, we push ourselves to gain the upper hand on academics and athletics. We’re competitive and we like the challenge to take on a lot and land on top.

But in God’s Kingdom, we find our strength in surrender and accepting we can’t do everything on our own. That’s why we look to God as our strength as we turn to Him with our hurts, our hopes and take time for fellowship with Him.

Since God is the source for our wellbeing, it’s important to stay as in tune with Him as we can. Just as God’s Word is an anchor for our souls, so is prayer. It keeps us connected to the living God who orders our steps and provides for our needs."

1) Sign up for Daily Impact Play.

The Daily Impact Play is one of many great tools and resources your coaches, athletes, and other volunteers can engage with as they Pursue Truth.

How can you utilize the Daily Impact Play in your ministry?

Share the Daily Impact Play on Facebook and Twitter by following @TheFCATeam and @fcawyoming on Facebook and Twitter .
Direct Athletes and Coaches to Daily Impact Play sign up here .
Share FCA’s new Monday Motivation series found @TheFCATeam

2) Check out February Discovery Series. Read and study with Student Athlete Leaders or Huddles.

"PURSUE: PRAY THE TRUTH As you look at the life of Jesus, you will notice that prayer was very important to Him. Prayer was a critical part of how Jesus approached each and every day and decision. Just as prayer was important to Jesus, it should be important to us. Prayer gives us the opportunity to see the heart of God and connect with Him. As you experience these Discovery Bible Studies, consider how your prayer life will help you pursue a closer relationship with Jesus."

3) Take a Look at Other Resources.

Official Announcement From @TheFCATeam

“Connected: Pray The Truth” Article . Prayer keeps us connected to the living God who orders our steps and provides for our needs. Available on Monday, Feb 1st.

Go to FCA.ORG for these videos and articles or watch for updates on Instagram and Facebook @fcawyoming @thefcateam

4) Read FCA WY Blog.

Be sure to check out our blog and emails for latest updates and information as we PURSUE Truth and Read the Truth this month!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

Read This: Still Pursing the Dream

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 03:22:25 GMT

Read This: Still Pursuing the Dream

by FCA Wyoming

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post how FCA continues to pursue Dr. King's dream and embody his principles as Christian Coaches and Athletes:

YouVersion Plan
Daily Impact
Other Resources

Read "Still Pursing the Dream"

From FCA -

"As we observe Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it’s important to reflect on the messages, guidance and godly wisdom he left behind. Dr. King relentlessly pursued his dream of standing for racial equality, love and justice for all and honor of the life and message of Dr. King, FCA has created a five-day YouVersion reading plan that reminds us to still pursue his dream for love, the ministry of presence, knowledge and understanding, God’s heart and God’s will.

Each week for the next five weeks, we’ll sample a day of the reading and link up with the YouVersion plan so you can complete the entire plan and be empowered to seek God’s heart for justice and racial equality."

We would like to introduce you to Darlene Johnson, contributor to Still Pursuing th e Dream. She also currently serves as the Board Chair for FCA's Board of Trustees, having been elected in January of 2020. She is the first female African American board chair and the second female in FCA history to lead the board.

Darlene currently resides in Maryland with her husband, Craig, who previously coached for the New York Giants and a former starting quarterback at the University of Wyoming! He was a three-year letter winner as a quarterback, throwing for more than 1,100 yards and seven touchdowns in a starting role his senior season of 1982 and entered the collegiate coaching ranks as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, Wyoming, in 1983 (from https://umterps.com/news/2013/4/9/208127530)

As a FCA Board of Trustees Chair, Darlene believes steps towards God’s unity start with an alignment of our hearts, as well as the pursuit of understanding the heart of God, saying:

"As people engage themselves with this new material, hearts will come together and see that bigger picture of how we can pursue the dream together."

“When I think of what Dr. King did, he was great at bringing people together under a greater cause,” she said. “As a ministry, we’re saying we want to come together for this common cause of diversity. We want to get better in this area and utilize the gifting and talents that God has poured into every single one of us."

Read Daily Impact

Still Pursuing the Dream - Pursue Love

“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” -- Matthew 5:43-44

The definition of pursue means to follow after. When I think about Dr. Martin Luther King, I think of a black man that followed after pursuing love despite experiencing discrimination and racism. His ministry was the ministry of loving your enemies.

He saw people created in the image of God, and because of that, he fought for those who couldn’t fight for themselves--for all that have been oppressed in some way. Most of the sermons he preached echoed love for enemies. Not only did he preach and teach about this, but he prayed about loving his enemies.

I believe it was the prayers that sustained him and his faith in Christ that inspired him to do what he did. What I love most about Dr. King was he did it by pursuing love day in and day out. It was a daily choice. It wasn’t a quick fix. It’s still not a quick fix. This is why we remember his legacy. He did it in a nonviolent way. He not only talked about it, but he demonstrated it by walking with the people, organizing and mobilizing leaders in love that reflected all colors and nationalities. He did it in the love of Christ.

- Manny Maldonado

Go HERE to read more or sign up for Daily Impact for daily readings.

Other Resources

Don't forget -

Announcement: @TheFCATeam Monday Motivation Series

"Imperative: Read The Truth” Article. In a world that can make us feel like we don’t know where we are going, Jesus grafts a greater Truth as we make a point to learn more about God through His Word. Available on Monday, Jan. 4th.

Pursue Hype Video. FCA’s 2021 annual ministry theme is about to take the field and run full steam into the new year—download the full hype video here; download the teaser hype video here.

Importance of God’s Word Video . Listen to the NFL quarterback Case Keenum share his thoughts on the importance of God’s Word and the benefit of reading Scripture and taking it into all you do as a coach or athlete. Coming in January!

Steadfast: Pursue Truth YouVersion Plan. This four-day reading plan invites readers to dig deeper into what it means to Pursue Truth and remain steadfast in seasons of uncertainty. Available Wednesday, January 20.

Go to FCA.ORG for these videos and articles or watch for updates on Instagram and Facebook @fcawyoming @thefcateam

We want to set you up with the resources you need to promote and share the FCA Theme with your Huddles and at FCA events - w hether it is for banners on Huddle Flyers, Facebook posts, or info about Camp!

Go to FCA WY Resources for all things on FCA 2021 and Pursue the TRUTH!

Thanks for reading!

- FCA Wyoming

Help us see the world AND WYOMING transformed by Jesus Christ

through the influence of coaches and athletes.

Financial gifts contribute to the sustainability of FCA in Wyoming. Visit our Donate page to make a donation today!

Would you like to support FCA with a donation?

Start with READ the TRUTH this January.

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 17:11:12 GMT

Now that you know FCA's 2021 theme, let's take a look at how to start to Pursue - Truth, Life, Team and Mission.

I faced uncertainty in many areas of life.

For many of you coaches and athletes, feelings of uncertainty, confusion, loss and disappointment can seem like a certain reality. That sums up last year and even now going into the future...

However, we want to be here for you and remind you that our identity in Christ is greater than our identity in sports. That is something that really drove home for us last year. And we pursue even more now.

Today, let us be sure that our confidence in Christ wipes away any uncertainty of this world. It’s important that we continue exercising that truth by pursuing Jesus and the calling that He has on our life for this next season. Our prayer is that you - as a coach, as an athlete - will move from a state of uncertainty to a position of confidence as a result of your pursuit of Jesus.

And you will help others along the way!

How do you start?

Start with the Truth. Pursue it - read it, pray it, reach for it. TRUTH. What will be the that TRUTH you pursue at the start of 2021?

Pursue Truth in first quarter of 2021.

Something to start:

Ready to pursue more? Read the Truth this January.

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” (Hebrews 4:12)

For the month of January, FCA focuses on step one Read The Truth - Believe the Bible is the Word of God. Be intentional about studying the Bible.

We can be in pursuit of that Truth by reading Scripture, praying and desiring accountability with other believers.

1) Sign up for Daily Impact Play. The Daily Impact Play is one of many great tools and resources your coaches, athletes, and other volunteers can engage with as they Pursue Truth.

How can you utilize the Daily Impact Play in your ministry?

Share the Daily Impact Play on Facebook and Twitter by following @TheFCATeam and @fcawyoming on Facebook and Twitter .
Direct Athletes and Coaches to Daily Impact Play sign up here .
Share FCA’s new Monday Motivation series found @TheFCATeam

2) Check out January Discovery Series. Read and study with Student Athlete Leaders or Huddles.

"PURSUE: READ THE TRUTH To have a better understanding of what God’s Word is, we need to be reading His Word daily. As you work through these Discovery Bible Studies, you will begin to discover why it is important to “Read the Truth.” You will learn that God’s Word will help you face battles, gain direction, resist temptation and much more. Reading the Truth is a critical step as we continue to pursue the things that God has for us."

3) Take a Look at Other Reads. Coming up for January - "READ THE TRUTH"

Official Announcement From @TheFCATeam

Pursue Hype Video. FCA’s 2021 annual ministry theme is about to take the field and run full steam into the new year—download the full hype video here; download the teaser hype video here.

Importance of God’s Word Video. Listen to the NFL quarterback Case Keenum share his thoughts on the importance of God’s Word and the benefit of reading Scripture and taking it into all you do as a coach or athlete. Coming in January!

Go to FCA.ORG for these videos and articles or watch for updates on Instagram and Facebook @fcawyoming @thefcateam

4) Read FCA WY Blog. Be sure to check out our blog and emails for latest updates and information as we PURSUE Truth and Read the Truth this month!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

FCA 2021 Theme Has Been Announced and We are Gonna Pursue it!

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 17:11:10 GMT

In 2020, we accepted the Camp challenge to go with 100% Theme with SACRIFICE, SURRENDER, SERVE and Surround. What is the FCA Theme for 2021? Keep reading to find out.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post the three things to know about the FCA Theme for 2021:

The Logo
The Bible Verse
The Resources

FCA WY is so pumped to give you the low down on FCA theme 2021...

The FCA 2021 Theme is...

The Logo

The Bible Verse

1 Timothy 6:11: "But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness."

From FCA Theme Press Release:

Big announcement! Get excited for this year's annual ministry theme, Pursue. Every coach and athlete is pursuing something: earning a scholarship, winning a championship or landing a contract. As the stakes rise, the drive behind that pursuit intensifies. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but what if pursuing those things ultimately isn’t healthy or good for us in the long run? Join us this year as we dive into pursuing the things of God. #FCAPursue

The Resources

ATTENTION! All FCA WY Huddle Leaders, Student Leaders, Coaches and Volunteers:

Announcement: @TheFCATeam Monday Motivation Series

Go to FCA WY Resources for all things on FCA 2021 and Pursue the TRUTH!

Thanks for reading!

- FCA Wyoming

Help us see the world AND WYOMING transformed by Jesus Christ

through the influence of coaches and athletes.

Financial gifts contribute to the sustainability of FCA in Wyoming. Visit our Donate page to make a donation today!

Would you like to support FCA with a donation?

Meet Eastern Director Karsten Sween

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 20:01:03 GMT

FCA WY is excited to officially introduce Karsten Sween as the new Eastern Director for FCA Wyoming.

Meet Eastern Director Karsten Sween

by FCA Wyoming

Welcome to our Blog! Please feel free to read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . We hope that the stories and updates here give insight into what God is doing in our square state. We want to engage, equip, and empower our WY athletes and coaches, along with our amazing FCA community of volunteers and supporters.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about what is happening for FCA one the eastern side of Wyoming...

"I was so excited to get the call from Kartsen expressing interest in returning back to Wyoming to serve on our FCA staff. Wow, a former UW Cowboy who served FCA here in Wyoming right out of college and then gain several years experience in leading and developing staff - what a blessing. With the rapid expansion of staff in Wyoming, having Karsten back will make a huge difference in our ability to train and encourage staff around the state to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church."

- Jim Hamilton, State Director

Keep reading to know more about Karsten's call to serve FCA Wyoming and the Eastern side.

eastern wyoming - Karsten Sween

Albany County/Snowy Range - Aaron Frude

Central Wyoming - Randy Larson

Powder River Basin - Cameron Groteluschen

Laramie County/Cheyenne - Kevin Cates

Medicine Bow

Thunder Basin

University of Wyoming - Aaron Frude

IMPACT ON THE CALL TO SERVE

From Karsten Sween:

"I have played sports since I could walk. I've been throwing balls around the house before I could walk. Just ask my mom Terrie Sween. Anyways, I LOVE sports, still do. My life was turned around by my wife in high school. She brought me back to Jesus. I LOVE Jesus more than sports. He is everything to me. But in FCA, I get to pursue both. I can share Jesus with the people I've known since I was little. I know sports and how to engage with them.

Now, through FCA, I get to engage them with the Gospel.

My first camp was in 2011. I had worked for FCA for about 9 months. Still a rookie! But that first camp i was a huddle leader. I had about 10 boys from high schools all across Wyoming. It was like nothing I'd experienced in ministry before...From waking them up in the dorms, to sports sessions, meals, evening worship, small group time..

It truly felt like what Jesus had with the disciples. He was with them sun up to sun down for 3 years. God showed me the power of quality time and a high quantity of time."

WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW

From Karsten Sween:

"What is your personal mission and vision for sports ministry (FCA) in your area - the needs you see and want to meet? For me this is simple. I want our staff funded and fruitful. To have everything they need to accopmlish our FCA mission- to lead every coach and athelte into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. I want the same for our volunteers, for their programs, and their events. I want a fruitful ministry blessed by God.

Here are some essentials I will be focusing on:

To spend time with my staff to better understand their ministry, their area, and their personal journey.

To align our ministry teams, programs, and events under our mission and our methods of ministry.

To find greater access to coaches and athletes and execute our mission."

WHAT TO PRAY FOR AND HOW TO HELP

From Karsten Sween:

"For me, pray for me to be a great Dad. I have 4 little ones running around my house. It is not easy to model Christ well day in and day out. Pray for me to do that. For FCA pray for fruitfulness, blessing, and an increase in ministry access. We lost a lot of that last year due to Covid and some other complications. We need more access to our coaches and athletes.

[For FCA] Prayers for East, we are trying to launch athlete ministry back there. We started a new coaches study last Tuesday for East coaches. It was a discovery Bible study. Hoping for team huddles."

If you are interested in becoming one of Karsten's financial teammates, please feel free to donate on our website at anytime.

Karsten Sween - Eastern Director

Home Team Budget Needs:

17 More People to donate $100 monthly

Click button to make a recurring or one-time gift at MYFCA.

Thank you for reading!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

Where Is Your Identity? Guest Writer Sydney Gunn Shares

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 18:06:44 GMT

While we start to Pursue Truth in our Lives and Sports this season, our Staff Sydney Gunn shares how she has found her Identity in Jesus. Read more to hear her heart!

Hello. My name is Sydney Gunn. I am Staff for FCA in Big Horn Basin. I wanted to share with you the power of finding your Identity in Truth as an Athlete - the theme for FCA this year and the theme for our Sports and Lives.

"Once Upon a time, I faced uncertainty in many areas of my life."

I have always grown up loving sports, but golf was the sport that captured my heart (aside from Jesus obviously). I grew up learning how to play golf and became engulfed in the sport throughout high school and into my college years. During that time, I made golf the center of my life.

"And everyday I pursued something solid to rely on. Until one day, I recognized God pursues me." Through FCA and my mentors, God transformed my heart and showed me there was so much more to this life than golf. Not only did God bless me with the opportunity to play golf in college, but He gave the opportunity to glorify Him through it.

"And now...I pursue JESUS."

As a result, my identity is found completely in the Lord. How I perform or what I do does not determine my worth, it is found in the God of the universe who loves me. Today, I would like to share with you in this post how you can find your identity in Jesus by starting with Truth.

First, ask yourself where is your identity?

We have all wanted to belong. Am I wearing what is ‘in style’? Did I say the right thing? Will I be able to perform well this weekend at the big game?

Stress, anxiety, and our thoughts can often wage war on us when we do not know to WHOM we belong. When we refocus our attention off the things of this world and onto Christ and our identity in Him. As a result we receive a peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil 4:7). So why do we go around stressing and worrying about all these things? We have missed placed our identity.

Identity is defined as: “who a person is or the qualities of a person or group that make them different from others.”

In order to know who you are you and what sets you apart, you must know to whom you belong. You belong to the Lord and you are valuable because He created you!

Take a look at TRUTH.

As Dr. Neil T. Anderson states, "Understanding your identity in Christ is absolutely essential for your success at living a victorious Christian life!” Read the Truth in the Bible daily and together to start this journey to purpose, confidence, life in Jesus:

You are loved. (Romans 5:8)

You are created in the image of God. (Genesis 1:27)

You are a masterpiece. (Ephesians 2:10)

You are called. (2 Tim 1:9)

You are redeemed and forgiven. (Col 1:14)

You are a child of God. (1 John 3:1)

You belong to God's family, you don’t have to seek your identity in the things of this world.

[BTW...Have you signed up for Daily Impact Play, yet? It's a great way to stay in God's Word! Go here for more in. ]

Now, apply Truth for Today.

Today, when you start to worry about what others may think, or find yourself misplacing your identity in your sport, think about the things of Christ. He does not love you based on your performance or mistakes; He loves you because He died for you!

W hen we know what God says about us, it is harder for Satan to deceive us.

John 10:10 states “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Christ wants to give you abundant life, don’t allow Satan to steal that from you.

Open His Word, look up these verses and recognize the importance of your identity in Christ.

Pray this: "Lord help me to know that my identity is in you. Show me what this looks like in my life. Help me to not be wrapped up in my performance or what others think of me, but rather what you think of me. Amen."

Upcoming posts I will be writing:

- How does knowing our identity minimize stress and anxiety in our lives?

- Identity, Performance, and Christ

To keep up with FCA in Big Horn Basin be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook @fcabighornbasin

Blessings,

Sydney Gunn

FCA Wyoming

Big Horn Basin

Sydney Gunn
Home Team Budget Needs:

8 More People to donate $100 monthly

Click below to make a recurring or one-time gift at MYFCA.

Look back on 2020 and Listen to Their Stories

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 16:51:14 GMT

Sometimes to get to the EVERY it starts with the ONE. What does this mean? Read about 2020 and the YEAR FCA WY learned...

Looking Back and Moving Forward...God is with us.

State Director Jim Hamilton remembers like it was yesterday when he got a phone call that they were shutting down the tournament to outsiders in Casper. We knew in that moment things were about to change. It was a moment we won't forget.

We had Coaches who did not know if they would have their careers left. We had Athletes whose seasons were cut short and left with an uncertain future. Camp was cancelled and it felt surreal. We even lost one of our own - a Staff member in another State. Please pray for this family. We have all been certainly affected in one way or another.

And yet even with these hard things...

God was with us. He was moving, working, teaching within our lives, our Athletes and Coaches, our ministry...

Instead of big events and big numbers, we began to concentrate on really redefining and rebuilding our base and Team of Volunteers. Virtual Ministry provided a way like never before for our Student Leaders to share their voice. Step up and step out in their faith. We connected our spread out state with Train 2 Lead, Night of Champions, Fields of Faith and Game Day. Several attendees expressed a desire to recommit their life to Christ and grow post-event. We also distributed over 100 Bibles and Coaching materials!

When it was time to break the news about Camp cancellations, our 2019 Camp Huddle Leaders were there for Campers. They helped put together a message online, full of their faces and full of hope. AND THE RESULT - simply POWERFUL.

Those are the ONES we are talking about.

The ONES who stepped up, showed their faces and shared their hearts at levels 100%. The ONES who were equipped and now empowered to make Disciples into 2021. The ONES who were engaged online and in person safely when possible to hear they how they can find their identity beyond Sport and in TRUTH. That is our Vision. That is our Mission. That is what FCA is all about and we will never cancel that!

Also, we could not have done it without our Volunteers! Thank you so much for all that you do. Watch highlight video of 2020 below.

“Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable Gift.”

– 2 Corinthians 9:15

Game Day Follow up!

Real quick we want to share that our first statewide virtual Game day from a live Laramie event was awesome! Thank you so much for UWYO FCA Director Aaron Frude, UWYO Athletes, Staff and Volunteers who helped make this happen.

If you missed it, watch below or go to www.fcawyoming.org

These UWYO Athletes brought the TRUTH! Please pray for the faith decisions made that day and during the event(s).

Thank you for your prayers, serving, and financial support. We pray that God is with you during our Christmas Break and look forward to connecting again in the new year.

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

UWYO/Laramie FCA 2020 Highlights

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:53:39 GMT

UWY O/Laramie FCA 2020 Highlights

by FCA WY Medi a and Stacy Frude

We would like to share with you in this post from Aaron and Stacy Frude and their UW/Laramie FCA's 2020 Highlights and News for the New year:

Five Giving Strategies for FCA WY

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 01:53:50 GMT

It's that time of year! End of year Giving, gifts of charity, and Hashtag Giving. But do you know what donating to FCA WY looks like or how it works? We'll break it down for you down below.

Five Giving Strategies for FCA WY

by FCA WY Media

Are you looking and praying for a way to give to a ministry or organization to impact your communities and youth? FCA wants to help Athletes and Coaches around the State wherever their are in their journey to find their identity in Christ and develop their Sport. It's a ministry about Teams of Volunteers serving, leading and giving.

We hope that the stories and updates here give insight into what God is doing in our square state. We want to engage, equip, and empower our WY athletes and coaches, along with our amazing FCA community of volunteers and supporters.

In this post, we would like to share about five strategies for giving to FCA WY:

Know the What If

Checkout MYFCA

Join the Home Team

Other Ways to Give (a car, a steer...)

Leave a Legacy (TLA Program)

Keep reading to know more about what giving to FCA looks like...

Know the What IF

The pic above comes from our Big Rocks from 2019. Exactly a year ago, our Team had met together over a meal to discuss the changes and future of FCA WY. State Director, Jim Hamilton, really challenged us Staff to think outside of checklists and categories. Instead, he asked us to consider the "what if" for FCA.

What if every area had a power camp, Fields of Faith, Night of Champions...what if, what if!

We decided that the Big Rocks would be the foundation of our ministry moving forward to reach our 35,000 WY Athletes and Coaches. To share the Gospel and make disciples. We even had a big plans for Night of Champions, which Hamilton had really emphasized during his stint as Director in 90's.

Fast forward in to Spring 2020...

Ministry was not cancelled but it certainly made a huge shift to serving virtual, online and at a distance. We continued to support Athletes and Coaches whose seasons and lives were really impacted during this time. And while many events were cancelled, our VISION AND MISSION has not been postponed. It has only strengthened!

Covid-19 would not have happened, we would have had almost if not all of these rocks hit in 2020! So, we want to introduce or refresh the BIG ROCKS, the vision for the State and each area. When you consider and praying about giving to FCA WY, please think about this -

WHAT IF FCA WYOMING COULD REACH EVERY ATHLETE AND EVERY COACH? What kind of legacy would that leave, what kind of transformation would that create?

Each Field office and State office raises their own local support. If you could pray for God's direction in how, where, and when to give - that would be awesome. You are also welcome to explore our options in this post to come up with the best fit as a giving strategy. And finally, if you would like to meet with Staff or Directors to talk more about how to be a part of our Home Team, please feel free. We are here for you!

Check out MYFCA

We would like to introduce you to MYFCA if you have not utilized this website yet. This secure website serves as a donation and account management to better serve you. It is both easy to use and personalized for you.

How does it work? Go to MYFCA.ORG. You will be able to look up staff and local area. You will also be able to read more about Staff and Areas on-going ministry. Or go to Our FCA WY TEAM page to directly access each Staff's MYFCA.org.

From there, you have the option to make a donation by filling out contact and billing information or creating a personal account. When you create a personal account, you have access to your giving history and option to sign up for Automatic Monthly Partner (AMP) Program. You will also be able to conveniently update contact information and download year-end tax reports.

Give Monthly. The Automatic Monthly Partner (AMP) Plan is a convenient and easy method of making monthly contributions for charitable giving and donations by monthly transfer between your checking, savings or credit card account. This method of giving is secure, convenient, and strategic.

If you take a look on our DONATE page on FCA Wyoming, you will find the Home Team Budget needs based on how many AMPS for your staff and area. We want to get their funding to 100% and AMPS provide a perfect way for Staff to have a consistent and sustainable budget!

Give a one-time Gift. While AMPS are a great thing, one time-gifts help, too! This is certainly an option under MYFCA.

Give in Honor. Did you know this was an option? Leave a comment, give as an organization, or leave your gift in honor of/in memory of someone.

Join the Home Team

Have you heard about our Home Team? Home Team consists of a group - visionary givers - who give continually with prayers and financial support to FCA State and Staff. In fact, a Home Team Member's ongoing contributions literally underwrite an area's ministry and operational budget. Home Team Members also share the Vision and help others with giving strategies to join the Home Team.

To get an idea of Home Team Budget needs, click on our Donate button at the top or go HERE. You are welcome to visit this page and view all the bar graphs of funds raised and needs and how many more people Staff need to join their Home Team. Who knows? Maybe you will be one of them.

Other Ways to Give

Give a check. If you MYFCA is not the best fit for you, making a check out works. Read more HERE.

Give a Steer. FCA partners with STEER, Inc . in Bismarck, North Dakota, which works with ranchers willing to use their talents, skills and land to raise cattle. The STEER program provides the cattle and seed; ranchers who volunteer raise the cattle until the cows can be sold. Profits from selling cows go to benefit the sports ministry of FCA. This is a unique and exciting way ranchers and farmers are donating to FCA.

If you’re interested in this unique opportunity to donate to FCA through ranching and farming skills, please learn more about STEER, Inc. HERE or watch the video below.

Give a Vehicle. Did you know that you can assist our sports ministry through vehicle donation? There are four possibilities for donors to consider based on their vehicle, situation, and desire. Donors also receive a tax deduction for each of the four options: a) FCA liquidates and sells the donated vehicle through our partner Vehicles for Charity, b) Donor sells the vehicle, c) Donor gives vehicle to FCA for staff use or d) Donor gives vehicle to FCA to sell.

For more information, on donating a vehicle to FCA go to this page, with all the information and forms you will need, go HERE.

Give Stock Gifts. This is an easy giving strategy with no out-of-pocket expense. The benefit to FCA: Receiving immediate cash for the ministry from the sale of the stock. The benefit for you: Reducing capital gains. Receiving a charitable tax deduction. Supporting the ministry of FCA.

To give a gift of stock to FCA, go here.

Legacy Giving

Leave a Legacy Now. Tom Landry, lived and left a legacy of impact, one that will carry forward for generations to come with his influence not only in the coaching and football world, but for the Kingdom through the way he lived his life and as a very special friend, leader and benefactor to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

The Tom Landry Associates is a program named in honor of Coach Landry to recognize and distinguish FCA’s major donors who also are living a legacy of impact for generations to come through generously investing in FCA’s vision to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes.

To learn more about annually giving and lifetime giving, go HERE.

Leave a Legacy Later. From estate giving to setting up an FCA Legacy Fund, learn about the ways to contribute to FCA as a legacy.

There you have it, we hope this helps. Thank you so much for all that you do.

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

GAME DAY 2020: Announcement and Important Info

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 17:05:57 GMT

Live Webinar 12.12.20 @3pm

We are going virtual with a pre-game livestream from a local huddle event in Laramie. Read about this opportunity as a Huddle Leader to use this as a Team Huddle outreach and/or huddling up with SALT. *Please check with CDC and state health department guidelines before meeting in person.

Game Day 2020 Announcement and Important Info!

by FCA WY Media

In this post, we would like to share about our virtual Game Day in 2020:

How to Watch

Who will be Featured

Schedule of Events

Keep reading to know more about our virtual Game Day 2020...

How to Watch

Before Covid-19 Game Days. Every fall, FCA Laramie and UWYO FCA hosts a large event at a local church for athletes and Adult Volunteers from all around the State like Burns and all the way from Green River! This has been a tradition for somet time that included corn hole games, food, trivia, music and post game testimonies and autographs. This year the event has been scaled down to only local Laramie huddle to respect Covid-19 guidelines.

BUT...

We are going to combine pre-recorded interviews and live interviews into one event that the rest of the State is encouraged to participate in via Zoom Webinar!

Virtual GAME DAY 2020. This December 12 at 3pm prior to the UWYO vs. Boise State football game, FCA Laramie will be livestreaming (as a webinar) from their Huddle Game Day in Laramie, inviting local kids only to meet at a local church and enjoy some pizza followed by the Live Stream Event with Interviews (both live and pre-recorded) and a Message.

With Covid-19 restrictions and guidelines, we want to promote this event primarily within our local SALT teams and local Huddles. Here are our suggestions for our Huddle Leaders and Adult Volunteers:

Plan a place to host the small gathering (within Covid-19 guidelines) - a home or church would work!
Invite SALT* or Team Huddle to meet prior to 3pm for pizza or a small meal
Go to our Zoom link found on our Events page or Game Day page
Watch the FCA Pre-Game Event via Zoom Livestream (webinar with just host and panelists visible)
Optional: Watch UWYO vs. Air Force together until halftime or longer (students could be free to go if they don't want to stay and watch) @4pm

*Be sure to check our Covid-19 Guidelines and local information for best practices with gatherings.

*Student Athletes Leadership Teams, contact Staff with questions.

Those in FCA Laramie please email Becky to RSVP for the gathering at the local church in Laramie: HERE

If you are an Adult Volunteer and would like to learn more about how to organize this event, please email llawson@fca.org or give your local Staff a call! We would love for you to share any photos or report back how your gathering went and how God was present!

Check out last year's in person event in Laramie:

Who will be Featured

We have an awesome line up of UWYO Athlete who want to share their stories and heart with Athletes locally and around the State - and virtual Game Day helps do just that. Check out below who will be featured and click on links to read more about them.

*This is a tentative list of guests and interviewees, may be subject to change.

Featured Live Testimonies

Taylor Rusk – UW Cowgirl Basketball

Ended her career at Wyoming ranked 20 ^th in scoring with 1,142 points, 10 ^th with 329 assists, seventh with 184 made three pointers, tied for second with 128 games played. Finished her career as just the fifth Cowgirl with both 1,000 career points and 300 career assists.

Faith Waitsmen – UW Cowgirl Volleyball

Was a member of the 2019 Fall Mountain West All-Academic Team.

UW Football Pre-recorded Interviews

Jahmari Moore

Moore was a key reserve and member of special teams for the Cowboys. He appeared in 10 games for the Pokes.and was a valuable member of special teams. Was named to MW Academic All-Conference team

Treyton Welch

Welch had a strong true freshman season with the Cowboys. He appeared in seven games with one start. . He did not record any statistics for the season. He helped pave the way for running back First Team All- MW Xazavian Valladay to record a 1,000-yard rushing season.

Possible Appearances as well from the following:

Phillip Henry – UW CC

Honors: Cross Country Academic All-Mountain West (2019); Track and Field Academic All-Mountain West (2019); Mountain West Scholar Athlete (2020, 2019)

Caleb Worshek – UW Swimming

High School: A two time NCSA qualifier, earned USA Swimming Scholastic All-American Award.

Christiana Ciasca – UW Golf

2019-20 (Sophomore): All-American Scholar by the Women's Golf Coaches Association for the first time.

Faith Joiner – UW Soccer

Started four matches in her first season and appeared in a total of 12,logged a career-high 95 minutes against UTEP (8/22/19).

Schedule of Events

*This is a tentative list of events, may be subject to change.

For FCA Laramie local Huddle schedule:

2:40 PM WELCOME Open in prayer

2:45 PM Pizza Served

3:00 PM Program begins for On-line Zoom

For Livestreaming and Laramie Huddle Event:

3:00 Program begins for On-line Zoom Giveaway items / Trivia

3:10 Live Interviews with Faith Waitsmen (UW Volleyball & Taylor Rusk (UW Cowgirl Basketball)

3:20 Videos from Treyton Welch – Jahmari

3:25 Presentation of the Four by UWYO Athletes

3:30 Wrap Up

3:40 Head to game if you are going in Laramie or Set up TV for those staying to watch.

4:07 PM Kick OFF – Beat Boise State

Remaining Schedule will be determined on an individual Huddle basis. FCA local Laramie Huddle will also determine their own schedule.

Hope this helps!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

FCA WY wants to reach the 35,000 Athletes and Coaches around the State - EVERY Coach and Athlete. To fulfill this Vision and Mission, we hire and train Staff to impact and influence sports communities and campuses in their areas through their team of approved and certified Ministry Leader Volunteers.

Will you consider giving a one-time or monthly financial gift to keep FCA WY going in your sports and State?

2019 Game Day in Laramie Highlights!

Follow Up on FOF 2020!

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 20:26:14 GMT

Blizzards and Pandemic did not stop us from having Fields of Faith 2020. Read about the Student Athlete Leaders who led the way and the night event!

Follow up on FOF 2020
by FCA WY Media

In this post, we would like to share about our virtual Fields of Faith in 2020:

Recap of the Event

Follow up Devotional

More About Getting Involved

Keep reading to know more about Fields of Faith...

Recap of the Event

Fields of Faiths served a big part of our October Highlights as our second year and our first FOF virtual event. Yes, even early blizzards and on-going pandemic couldn't stop ministry in 2020! We were blessed to have this student led event through Zoom, with host and Powder River Staff, Cameron G, and the panelists - Student Athlete Leaders and Guest Speaker Pastor Aaron. Thank you to everyone who stepped up and out in faith!

While we missed having FOF as a face to face event, like last year in Rock Springs, the virtual meeting was still a great opportunity to share the Gospel message and it allowed these Student Athlete Leaders to really lead and serve. The focus of FCA WY this year has really centered on equipping and empowering our FCA Student Athlete Leaders (SALT).

This is the kind of leadership that gets us excited for the future of FCA WY and the potential impact with SALT!

And while this event pumped up our Leaders in their fai th, it also was an opportunity to help others grow in their faith. Infact, 5 attendees responded with wanting to grow more in their faith after the event. 5 is awesome! Whether it is 5 or a 100 - we want EVERY Athlete and EVERY Coach in Wyoming to know Jesus and this is just plain awesome, TEAM.

Watch below a short clip, then click on the video below to watch the full video (45 minute plus). Watch it with your huddle if you missed it the first time. Share it with your pastor and church.

Follow up Devotional

Check out the follow up devotional for Fields of Faith in the link below. If you are a Student Athlete and want to commit to diving into God's Word each day, this plan will help you get started and stay on track. If you are a Huddle Leader, 21 Days with God may be a great on on one discipling opportunity, too.

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/681-fca-215-days-with-god

More About Getting Involved

Fields of Faith is a student led event that happens every October. When we are face to face again, we would love to have our FCA Volunteers help host these events in the future.

If you are an Adult FCA Volunteer, please make sure you have filled out our MLA. This application makes you an official FCA Volunteer with approval from Staff. We want all Adult Volunteers (from committees to huddle ministries) to be MLA approved. This ensures student safety and alignment with FCA Values with those who lead and serve Athletes and Coaches through our FCA Ministry Environments.

Another way to get involved is to donate and pray.

FCA WY wants to reach the 35,000 Athletes and Coaches around the State - EVERY Coach and Athlete. To fulfill this Vision and Mission, we hire and train Staff to impact and influence sports communities and campuses in their areas. In return, our Staff will give MLA approved and Certified Leaders and Huddles the resources and tools in those FCA Ministry Environments, just like Fields of Faith.

Will you consider giving a one-time or monthly financial gift to keep FCA WY going in your sports and State?

Finally and most importantly, will you pray for our ministry? Covid-19 had caused a lot of challenges for our Team. It also brought about a lot of awesome changes. As we go into a new year, new semester, new sports season in 2021 - we would appreciate the prayers.

If you are praying for us, send us a text or email to let us know. We would love to hear from you.

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

Fields of Faith 2020: Get Ready!

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 22:14:01 GMT

Last year was our First Field of Faith and this year is our First Virtual FOF - find out how we can unite together across the state this October.

Fields of Faith 2020: Get Ready!

by FCA Wyoming

In this post, w e would like to share about Fields of Faith in 2020:

Recap on Last Year's Event

FOF 2020 is happening soon!

How To Get Involved

Keep reading to know more about Fields of Faith...

Recap on Last Year's Event
Nationwide Fields of Faith 2019: 503 Fields – 192,000+ People

First in State. Last year, 2019 was a big year. One of those milestones included our first Fields of Faith in Wyoming. We joined the nation to pray and rally together! Sheridan and Rock Springs were ready to host. Of course, an early winter blizzard changed those plans. But, Rock Springs was still able to pull the event off with a great guest Speaker, energized volunteers and Task Force Team and students who both served and attended.

It was also an opportunity to share the Four (thanks to State Director Jim Hamilton) and get kids pumped for Camp 2020 (before Covid-19). Overall, the entire night was one to remember!

Volunteers and Leaders Rocked it! When asked about their experience at Fields of Faith and impact of FCA, a Rock Springs Coach and Volunteer shares:

Our task force has seen so many amazing things happen, not only for fields of faith, but also for getting kids to FCA Camp, fundraising, and allowing us to reach out in sports specific huddles to a large number of Rock Springs athletes. We have seen so many things happen when we let God be in control.... Ephesians 3:20 'now to him who is able to do above and beyond all we ask or think according to the power that works in us.'

Thank you, Coach B., for this inspirational message and for all our Volunteers and what you do!

FOF 2020 is happening soon!

Virtual. This October 14th, we will be unifying under one rally cry and several screens! #fofo20 will be held as a live virtual event across the State instead of individual fields. In fact, anyone can attend! In the end, this actually works out. Even last year, Wyoming weather forced us off the fields and moved indoors in Rock Springs, along with the Sheridan FOF cancelled. By going virtual, we avoid more than one challenging situation!

Student Led. Fields of faith is a student led event and this year our Student Athlete Leaders are really stepping up! We have lined up a few Student Athletes to take the lead during this virtual events, including a challenge to love Jesus with their sport and sharing how God has changed their lives. It will be a motivating time!

How To Get Involved

Attend. Depending on your local guidelines, you may also be able to join your SALT team or other FCA Teammates to watch together. Always check with state and local safety guidelines first!

Share the word. Please be sure to let your FCA Teammates (Volunteers, SALT Leaders) about the event and send the link to Zoom meeting. Feel free to also invite your community leaders and pastors.

Pray. Will you pray for the impact and influence of FCA in Wyoming - for the 34,000+ athletes and coaches, for every athlete and coach to have a relationship with Jesus and His Church?

If you have any questions feel free to reach out to Staff!

Blessings,

FCA WY

Fishing in Fellowship: Update on FCA Sheridan

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 17:07:01 GMT

Thanks to the generous giving of a donor - FCA WY in the Powder River Area has a boat! And it is great way to connect off the field and on a WY river. Read more down below.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about an update from FCA Sheridan/Powder River Area.

What's Been Happening

For several years now, Field Staff Cameron Groteluschen, with his wife and family, has been serving and ministering to Athletes and Coaches in the Powder River area, which includes Sheridan and Johnson County, Kaycee, Buffalo, Avada-Clearmont, Sheridan, Bighorn, and Tongue River.

This past year, Cameron, along with the FCA WY Team, has ramped up efforts to disciple Athlete Leaders and host events within the community and with Wyoming Churches. Such events had involved the first of its kind " Fields of Faith " which had been planned last October in coordination with Rock Springs FOF and nationwide events.

Although a fall blizzard cancelled the event, Cameron had continued to work on strategies for sports ministry in the area for the 2019/2020 school year. Having attended Camp School, Cameron came into 2020 renewed and ready for the region's first Power Camp in the summer.

Fast forward...

With many Camp cancellations and postponements, FCA WY quickly shifted to discipleship and sharing the Gospel with

on-line and virtual settings to follow health and safety guidelines. While it has been a blessing to stay connected, this season has also been a different one.

Here is the interesting thing, though - when we look back we can see how God has been providing for our Staff and preparing our ministry for such times.

For FCA in Sheridan and Groteluschen, we see how God has been providing for FCA in Sheridan even before and certainly now after the pandemic...with a boat!

Fellowship and Fish on the River

Years ago, a boat was given to FCA WY by a generous donor and visionary giver. Since, then this boat has been a way for Athletes and Coaches to connect off campus and off seasons and IN the great WY outdoors with Staff Groteluschen. And it also provides just one more amazing way for FCA WY to impact and influence our sports culture and communities!

And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." - Matthew 4:19

When asked about what kind of impact FCA has had on his own life, Groteluschen shares, "FCA encouraged me as a high schooler to be bold in my faith and to encourage others to do the same. I got FCA started in my high school as a student and that really was hard and challenging. But, it also encouraged me to organize and be a part of something bigger than myself. I also attended camps as a high schooler, including the Powell and Spearfish Camp ."

This is the kind of legacy Groteluschen hopes to see continue to grow in Sheridan, a legacy of building up FCA Leaders. About the present and future of FCA in Powder River Area, he says, " We continue to see more athletes getting involved in our huddles as well as the number of campers growing every year. So, our v ision for this upcoming school year is to see FCA grow and to continue to reach coaches and athletes even though things will probably be different on campus and within communities.

Ultimately, we want to see the Fellowship of Christian Athletes impact coaches and athletes in Sheridan and Johnson county. Encouraging them to seek a personal relationship that applies not only to sport but also their lives."

For 2020/2021 School Year. Looking ahead to this coming school year and sports seasons, there are a lot of unknowns and uncertainty. However, in the mean time, having a boat to take Athletes and Coaches out fishing will continue to be a big blessing. We hope it is a time to renew and connect and fellowship outside and on the river! *

*Photos were taken before Covid-19 Guidelines and Mandates. We will carefully consider health precautions and guidelines with future FCA's events and outreach.

If you would like to donate to Cameron Groteluschen Home Team Budget, click HERE .

To read about a Sheridan coach's experience at Camp 2019, feel free to check out this post below:

Heart of a Wyoming Coach: Interview #1

If you would like to learn more about giving to FCA, be sure to check out these links:

How to Help FCA in 2020: 3 Ways to Give

Blessings,

- FCA Wyoming

Some Good News for FCA in Southeast Wyoming!

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 19:04:06 GMT

FCA WY is excited to officially introduce Kevin Cates as the new Staff for Cheyenne and Laramie County FCA. Read more about it in this post!

Some Good News for FCA in Cheyenne and Laramie County!

by FCA Wyoming

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about what is happening for FCA in Cheyenne and Southeast Wyoming!

"I am so excited to have Kevin Cates coming on board with FCA in Cheyenne and the Southeast Corner of the state. Kevin has been a blessing to athletes for many years serving as a Huddle Coach and working the FCA Black Hills State Sports Camp. What a blessing to have an old coach join the FCA Staff team!

A s of now, Coach Kevin Cates has been hired as a Field Associate. A Field Associate is a part-time temporary position. Why temporary? Because Kevin is finishing out his last year of teaching and retiring at the end of this year. He will start full time with FCA as an Area Representative June 1st!"

- Jim Hamilton, State Director

Keep reading to know more about Kevin's call to Serve Southeastern Wyoming.

IMPACT ON THE CALL TO SERVE

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” - Ephesians‬ ‭2:10‬ ‭ESV‬‬

From Kevin Cates:

"I first attended an FCA family camp in Estes Park in 1999 when our children were very young. It turned out to be the beginning of a spiritual transformation for myself and my family. Camp opened my eyes to new means of worship and true fellowship as well as the importance of a meaningful relationship with Christ.

As I have coached sports camps over the years, I have witnessed and practiced, thru sport sessions, coaches’ huddles, and chapel services, what is means to coach from a caring Christ like perspective, valuing relationships and long-term impact on my players over wins and losses.

WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW

From Sydney Gunn:

"FCA has played a major role in my spiritual growth and coaching style. I feel called to help coaches and athletes grow in their personal relationships with Christ, so they can positively and spiritually influence those around them.

FCA reaches coaches and athletes where they are at.

God’s call became pretty clear the last few years at camp as I began having discussions about what I was going to do upon retirement from teaching and coaching. God has equipped me for this position thru a lifetime of experiences in teaching and coaching."

WHAT TO PRAY FOR AND HOW TO HELP

From Kevin Cates:

'" Multiple challenges to school ministry have recently arisen, especially within the last year, making ministry in our schools very difficult.

Please pray that God will grant FCA staff and volunteers the wisdom to face these challenges in new and creative ways. Also pray that God will raise up both adult and student leaders in all Laramie county schools willing to answer God’s call to fight the spiritual battles we face in our communities."

One of our goals is to find enough automatic monthly partners to fully fund my position. We also held in place of our Southeast Annual Banquet that was cancelled due to Covid-19 our first ever VirtuaI Banquet. You are welcome to watch the video to learn more about financially helping FCA and an awesome message from our guest speaker Marcellus Casey: HERE . If you are interested in becoming one of our financial teammates, please feel free to donate on our website at anytime."

Thank you for reading!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

God is Working and Answering Prayers in Central Wyoming!

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 18:18:53 GMT

FCA WY is excited to officially introduce Randy Larson as the new Area Rep for Central Wyoming and Casper FCA. Read more about it in this post!

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about what is happening for Central Wyoming and Casper FCA!

"I am so excited to have Randy come on staff with FCA in Casper. Casper has had a great history with FCA. We have great volunteers and Randy was one of them. Randy, was one of my first recruits 30 years ago and when I was the first staff person in Wyoming. What a blessing to how have him serving FCA as a staff person in Casper." - Jim Hamilton, State Director

Keep reading to know more about Randy's call to Serve in Central Wyoming...

IMPACT ON THE CALL TO SERVE

"To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:" Ecclesiastes 3:1

From Randy Larson:

"As a result of the tremendous positive impact coaches and athletes had on me when I was growing up, I decided early on to become a teacher and a coach. Nothing seemed more important to me than to be able to positively influence young people.

My first exposure to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes was through my college wrestling coach, and, when I moved to Casper, Wyoming, in 1989 to begin my teaching and coaching career, I became an FCA huddle leader at CY Junior High.

During this time I attended an FCA Family Camp in Estes Park, CO, an FCA Sports Camp in Powell, WY, and I drove a bus full of Wyoming kids to Minnesota for an FCA Sports Camp. Although my involvement in FCA was minimal from 2000 - 2013 when I left the classroom to become an administrator, my son Jeremiah was involved involved at the University of Wyoming, including participating in two mission trips to Haiti.

When I returned to the classroom in 2013, I started and currently lead an FCA huddle at Centennial Middle School. I was teaching and leading a huddle where we were sharing the Gospel with around 35 students every week until Huddles made the shift to virtual ministry during Covid."

WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW

From Randy Larson:

"2020 has definitely been a year of transitions as my 31 year career as teacher, coach and administrator came to an end, and we moved into ministry with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Though I had planned and prepared to pursue business after retiring from teaching in June, I felt a call to the ministry of FCA. After several months of prayer, Dawn and I were convinced that this is where the Lord was leading us, and we are excited to report that I am now officially on board as Staff.

Since then we have engaged in many hours of training, fundraising, and developing a vision and plan for FCA in Central Wyoming. Even though I had been a volunteer with FCA for many years, this call to ministry was truly unexpected.

Ultimately, we have lived in central Wyoming for thirty years and have a strong desire to see the culture transformed to the image of Christ."

Check out Randy Larson and his live interview during our Night of Champions: Virtual Banquet 2020.

WHAT TO PRAY FOR AND HOW TO HELP

From Randy Larson:

"We look forward to seeing what the Lord will do in Central Wyoming as we seek to see the cultures in our schools and communities transformed through leading coaches, athletes and all whom they influence into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.

Please pray for all current FCA leaders and also that the Lord would call more leaders to the ministry.

Thank you so much to those of you who have helped us by providing the support we need for this year. Your generosity, coupled with one-time funds provided by the FCA Casper Task Force, has enabled us to get started. One of our goals is to find enough automatic monthly partners to fully fund my position by the end of this year. If you are interested in becoming one of our financial teammates, please feel free to donate anytime."

Thank you for reading!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

What's the Plan? Re-engagement during Covid and return to Sports and School

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 14:03:30 GMT

Are you ready to jump back into Ministry? Ministry was not really ever cancelled but a lot was put on hold over summer. Moving forward, FCA WY is united under the Vision and Mission and committed to serving and influencing Athletes and Coaches.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about how:

We are united as a Team.
We will help you lead and serve.
We value Volunteers and Leaders.

We are united as a TEAM.

A few weeks ago, FCA WY hosted its first Statewide Training Webinar “Train 2 Lead” via Zoom. With close to over hundred participants (live attendees and post-recording viewers) and 24 Communities and 52 Huddles represented, the virtual event got us ready for 2020/2021.

If you haven't already - Volunteers and Student Athlete Leaders - please check out our Train 2 Lead webinar recording and info page. We want alignment, assignment, and accountability to be our focus. What better way to do that than to start off fall with training, getting organized, and coming together.

So, what can we expect with FCA this fall? Take a look at what is happening in real time and virtual:

Huddles are back into play. As excited as we are for moving forward, what FCA looks like in your area will depend on many things. So please be sure to look at our principles going into re-engagement if you are a certified volunteer and if you are a parent and/or coach with any questions to please let us know!

Regarding face to face, we ask that FCA Leaders and Volunteers remember some counties are mandating masks, regardless of our opinions on this we need to have a mask with us and be prepared to use it and adhere to social distancing mandates as well.

Please read some of Principles for Re-Engagement on more guide-lines in this blog.

For Huddle Leaders and Volunteers, check out the recent event, hosted by FCA Laramie. It is a great example of successfully ministering to communities while also adhering to Covid guidelines in the blog post below.

We will also continue to build up our virtual ministry to both compliment and supplement (when needed) our physical Huddles. While face to face is best, we must be prepared for complying to any changes and protecting our FCA Teams. A great example of how to do a virtual Huddle can be found under our #fcavirtual blogs like this one.

Intense Staff Training. Throughout 2020, FCA WY Staff has been challenged to go deeper into the personal relationships with Jesus and rally together even more as Team in alignment, assignment, and accountability. We are so excited to share with you the tools and resources we have received to grow stronger under the Vision and Mission of FCA.

More Training for Leaders. Along with the August Train 2 Lead Webinar , we will host more webinars and training resources. We see making disciples as one of the most important aspects of our ministry, especially in 2020!

New! Fall Webinar for Pastors. Details TBA

New! Virtual Fields of Faith - We are taking Fields of Faith onto a virtual Field this October. This student-led event will be a time for our State to be 100% united. Prayer. Testimonies. Worship. Details TBA.

New! Virtual Game Day . This annual event will not be postponed - just moved online. We will have College Athlete testimonies and more... Details TBA.

New! Fall Webinar for Pastors. Details TBA

Online Newsletter monthly. We will be sending out more communications to keep you connected. Make sure to check your emails and/or update your info with Staff. We want our Leaders to contribute as much as possible to sharing their voice and stories about their Sport, love for Jesus, and journey with FCA - podcasts, videos, blogs and more!

We also have a motivational message from our Train 2 Lead Guest Speaker and Rockies Region VP - Mike Sanfratello!

We will help you lead and serve.

We would like to share with you a few principles we want to practice as we go into re-entering sports and schools this fall: "These series of principles starts with the most basic and essential priorities that must be maintained to help us live out our Mission; To lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and the church. "

*We will be emailing via constant contact the Principles in their entirety to our Huddle Leaders - so be on the look out!

Please also keep in mind - every school district is different and we will approach ministry according to the guidelines in that community. If you have questions about huddles and FCA in your school or where you live, feel free to reach out!

Some Principles for Re-Engagement.

For the complete list and guide of Re-engagement Principles, contact your Local Staff or email Jim Hamilton @jhamilton@fca.org

We value our Volunteers and Leaders.

Here is another resource from FCA that we would like share in this post. Feel free to download and use as volunteer reference going into this new season. We want you to feel valued. We are here for YOU.

Blessings,

-FCA Wyoming

Train 2 Lead Virtual Meeting Kicks off Fall for FCA WY

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 22:18:58 GMT

Here's a wrap up of our Kick Off for FCA Leader Training. Our ministry Team is stronger than ever before. And this is just the beginning...

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about our Train 2 Lead Event and give you the next steps for Leaders:

On August 6, 2020, FCA Wyoming hosted a state wide Leadership Webinar for formally invited attendees who are current and potential Huddle Leaders, current and potential Athlete Leaders and current and potential Character Coaches. It was great to see all those faces, from around our Square State!

We also appreciate UWYO/Laramie FCA Aaron Frude for joining as co-host with State Director Jim Hamilton and Mike Sanfratello, Regional VP for FCA and former NFL player for kicking off our time with a motivating message.

To sum up our time -

We are ready more than ever as a united TEAM to fulfill the Vision and Mission of Fellowship of Christian Athletes -

FCA Vision

To see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes.

FCA Mission

To lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

Before reading on, keep in mind for those who attended but have not uploaded notes or those who could not attend...

FCA Leaders will be required to fill out notes to receive credit. Be sure to watch below if you missed it!

1. Get the Notes and Watch the Webinar.

2. Upload completed notes for credit.

You can also email jhamilton@fca.org the notes or for answers to any questions.

3. Check out and fill in Forms.

So you are called to sports ministry to lead, serve and love...that's awesome!

We want you to be equipped and the best way to do that is to make sure you have been certified as a volunteer, leader and huddle. Make sure you have filled out and submitted all necessary forms for FCA: MLA, Re-certification form, and S.A.L.T. If a password is required, please reach out to your local staff for help.

*All required forms should be filled out by the end of September for on-boarding process.

4. Get the Gear.

FCA Wyoming wants to make sure our Leaders are covered when it comes to FCA Gear - especially since there was no Camp gear this year at Black Hills Camp. There will be a discounted price on tshirts for Student Athletes and gift to Huddle Leader Volunteers is a one-time offer through our Train 2 Lead Webinar for attendees who have completed forms and been approved (MLA and certification for Huddle Leaders and S.A.L.T. approval for student athlete leaders).

Adult Huddle Leaders - please enter the amount of t-shirts needed per size for Athlete Leaders and primary and secondary Huddle Leaders (if applies). The cost, which includes shipping, is $4.00. Huddle Leaders will need to collect this from indiviudals and send total check amount to Jim Hamilton. State office will then ship the t-shirts to provided addresses.

Remember that orders must be placed and payment sbumitted by August 29, 2020 to State Director Jim Hamilton.

If you would like to view more FCA Gear or purchase separately and individually, go to fcagear.com. This new FCA Store has a new look and lots of merch for sports lovers and Jesus followers.

5. Take a Look at TRAIN 2 Lead Page: The Four, The Core, The Pursuit and Social Media.

We want to be all on the same page, which means ministering from the same playbook. If you haven't already, please take a look at the online ministry tools (and print form offered) that we will be using to share the Gospel, disciple Coaches and Athletes, and grow our FCA community. Click on the button below to see how it works. Watch our call to action for virtual ministry with more media.

FCA Field Day in Laramie was a success!

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 16:09:21 GMT

Overall, it was a win to get these kids outside and moving, and growing in their understanding of Jesus. Read more about it below!

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about our first Laramie FCA Field Day Event from guest writer and Staff Stacy Frude, UW/Laramie FCA.

About the Event

Hello, this is Stacy and I am excited to tell you more about our FCA Field Day. The first ever Laramie FCA Field Day came together with many sanitized hands, physical but not relational distancing, some smiles hidden behind masks, and God’s direction and power, which remain the same regardless of the changing times.

Overall, it was a win to get these kids outside and moving, and growing in their understanding of Jesus!

Covid-19 and Camp Cancellations. The night before the first ever Laramie FCA Field Day I felt panic begin to mount. I could hear my computer bing with each new registration. 89, 90, 91… Any other year I would have been rejoicing that 91 kids and counting were signing up to attend an event where I knew they would hear the gospel and get to enjoy an FCA power camp experience.

However, this is not “any other year.”

This is the year of the shutdown; the year of canceling events, even ministry events. This is the year of COVID-19. Already our overnight FCA Camp and regularly scheduled Power Camp had been canceled and most other ministry events had moved online.

This event would resemble last year’s Laramie FCA power camp , but would be modified to one full day instead of 4 half days. We would also incorporate the theme “field day” to resonate with every participant who had their school field day canceled in the spring due to school closure. Most importantly, we would have the opportunity to share the gospel with 3rd-6th grade students, a particularly vulnerable and affected demographic amidst the pandemic.

Moving forward in faith. Our concern for the physical health and safety of people in our community led us to adhere to the local and state recommendations for ministry early in the spring and into summer. Yet, our concern was also for the spiritual well-being of people in our community, which had never abated.

We finally felt the best way to begin effectively sharing the good news about Jesus Christ with kids again, would be to take on the challenges with minimizing the danger of spreading disease as much as possible.

But...

This also meant stepping out in faith, to reach young people with the message of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, this message will create an eternal impact.

And, THAT is what compelled us. Every soul will spend eternity somewhere.

Breakdown of Field Day

Aaron and I moved forward confidently with the plan and recruited volunteers to provide food and equipment, to lead huddles, speak and share testimonies. Aaron never waivered in his conviction that this was the right play, but the night before the event I was waffling.

Was this the right decision? What if someone got sick? What if we were unable to implement our health and safety plan? What if someone thought we were being foolish to do an in person event? What if over 100 kids came when we had prepared for under 100. What if…what if…what if?

Challenges. It was a restless night before an early morning which began with a huddle leader canceling at 6:30 am because he wasn’t feeling well. Sound equipment and our hand washing station from the local sanitation department were late. Kids started showing up before the 8:00 start time.

A friend saw my panic and pulled me aside to pray. She reminded me “God’s got this.”

And He did.

After the initial chaos, the pieces began to come together. Eventually 95 kids stood in line to get their temperatures taken by registrars who smiled with their eyes behind masks. Once cleared they were assigned their huddle number and directed toward the hand sanitizer and breakfast station.

And then we were off to the races!

Blessings. Morning power up, co-ed soccer stations, snack, speaker, huddles, volleyball and football stations, sack lunches, field day events, snack, speaker, huddles. Before we knew it, it was 2:45 and fire trucks were pulling up on the north end of Kiwanis Park for the much anticipated “surprise” the kids had been chattering about all day. The fire trucks sprayed the screaming kids in the hot July sun.

One parent who walked up to pick up her kids said, “It was so great to walk up and hear kids screaming and laughing in the park again.”

Smiling soaked kids drove and walked away. There was no doubt they had had fun.

Opportunity to Serve and Share the Good News

More importantly than the fun...

They had heard a clear gospel message from youth pastor Jeremy Smith. Jeremy did a great job engaging the kids as he explained that the God of the Bible created and loves them and challenged them to personally respond to the free gift of salvation offered through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Each participant also left the camp with a rubber bracelet stamped with the four icons which help explain The Four, as well as a Sports New Testament.

At the end of the day, we know that God has called me and Aaron to Laramie and the University of Wyoming. We want to preach the good news, using the platform of sport. And, even a world wide pandemic doesn’t change that call.

We felt compelled to help meet the spiritual need of young people in our community, even if it involved some challenges.

In fact, several kids indicated they prayed to receive Jesus as their savior for the first time, and even apart from the positive feedback we have received again and again from parents and volunteers, we ended the day with a resounding, “it was worth it” echoing in our hearts and minds.

Souls are always worth it.

-Stacy Frude

UWYO FCA/Laramie Campus Rep and Communications

Night of Camp and Night of Champs: Read More About it!

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 23:10:25 GMT

Did you attend our Virtual Banquet 2020 this past month? If you didn't have a chance to join us, we have a follow up for you in this post!

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post a follow up on our Virtual Banquet 2020:

Keep reading to learn more about this great time...

About the Event

We were blessed to have Guest Speaker Marcellus Casey, Staff from around the State, and Student Athlete Leaders to join us live and virtually for a night of an encouraging, motivating message and testimonies from Athletes and Coaches.

Originally, June 25th would have been a night of Camp for several hundred Campers and Camp Staff @fcacampblackhills.

Even though plans changed, we were excited to have a virtual banquet and a Night of Champions, which gave us a little bit of a night of Camp. We even shared FCA's "The Four" and the Gospel message during the event!

Quotes of the Night

"I love the ministry of FCA and everything that it has done for my life - in helping me connect with the Gospel, as well as give the Gospel away. This is a ministry worthy of the kingdom of God."

- Marcellus Casey, Guest Speaker and Kansas City Chiefs Team Chaplain

"Being an athlete or being on a varsity team, kind of puts you in the spotlight. People are watching you all the time. It shows you that YOU can show people what being a Christian means through actions instead of your words....FCA opened that up for me and I realized for the first time I could do something bigger with my life."

- Rudy, Student Athlete in Sheridan

"When I was tested this winter at indoor track and when I was at FCA, I had other Christians that were there who would say 'Trust the plan. Trust the process.' That really stuck with me so I know that even if things go hay-wire...we have brothers and sisters in Christ."

- Finley, Student Athlete in Casper

"My identity used to be in my sports...FCA has helped me become a better leader. I am more stable, not just in my athletics, but in my life. I can enjoy my sport more and find the joy in it - instead of putting my identity in it...Praising Jesus in my Sports."

- Emma, Student Athlete in Pinedale

"[Our Pre-game foot ball team Huddle] really helps our team spiritually and also on another level outside the sport, we are talking about how we are going to overcome stuff and how if things go wrong, how we are going to come back - if something goes wrong it happens for a reason..put your faith in the Lord he releases you from that pressure and allows you to play for your full capacity."

- Carter, Student Athlete in Cheyenne

"Going to Camp and connecting with other coaches, hearing about their struggles helped me realize they feel similar struggles as a coach. As I grew spiritually, my coaching changed along with that. Just as you grow in the fruit of the Spirit...more joy, more patience."

- Coach Cates

Watch Full Video. Or Listen to Audio.

Check it out below.

Order of Interviews and Guest Speaker in minutes:seconds

00:37 State Director Jim Hamilton Intro

3:59 Meet newest Staff Syndey Gunn - Big Horn Basin Area Rep

9:57 Interview #1 Powder River Basin Staff and Student Athlete

18:07 Interview #2 Casper/Central WY Student Athlete Leader

21:28 Interview #3 Pinedale Student Athlete Leader

27:40 Interview #4 South East WY Student Athlete Leader

34:57 Interview w/ Coach Cates

41:37 Guest Speaker Marcellus Casey

01:00:03 Aaron Frude - UWO FCA Director/Laramie Prays and Shares a word.

Something we would like to share...

Even with the great turnout and financial gifts - FCA WY still needs donors who are "visionary givers," people who love Jesus and Sport and want to impact the culture and communities!

We have been updating our website's Donate/Support page to be transparent and specific with our needs.

Check out State and local Staff images to see Home Team Budget Needs:

https://www.fcawyoming.org/support-fca-wy3161bc5d

Thank you for your continued giving to FCA WY!

UW/Laramie FCA Update: UW Volleyball Player/Grad Student Jackie McBride Ministry Highlight

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 16:15:19 GMT

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

We hope that the stories and updates here give insight into what God is doing in our square state. We want to engage, equip, and empower our WY athletes and coaches, along with our amazing FCA community of volunteers and supporters.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

UW volleyball player and grad student Jackie McBride put together an excellent newsletter for one of her classes to highlight what has happened within the UW/Laramie FCA Ministry over the last six months.

Click HERE for pdf version of the awesome newsletter! Or keep scrolling below...

How to Help FCA WY in 2020: 3 Ways to Give

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 15:11:43 GMT

If you are looking for a way to give back to our Sports Ministry or pay it forward in your Sport community, keep reading...

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post 3 ways to give to FCA WY:

Prayers to Empower
Time to Engage
Gifts to Equip

Keep reading below to find out ...

Prayers to Empower

One of the best ways to help FCA WY continue ministering and serving Wyoming Coaches and Athletes is PRAYER. Last year's Camp, we enlisted week long, 24 hr prayer warriors to cover our Campers, Camp Huddle Leaders, Volunteers and Staff in praying without ceasing. It was an amazing experience...but this summer - while Camp may be cancelled - the need for prayer continues!

Indeed, with so many challenges and disappointments this season of life, we believe what better way to pray for FCA WY then to pray the following prayer for us and YOURSELF - "YES LORD!" We want the rest of 2020 to be YES to anything God has for us. We found this prayer in the devotional below.

FROM GLOBAL GRIT DEVOTIONAL:

Over the years, I have read, memorized and even written hundreds of prayers. But there is one prayer that I believe has the power to transform lives. I usually utter it dozens of times throughout the day–most of the time out loud. It is a two-word starting point. This prayer has helped me understand both the simplicity of prayer and the power of God. What is the one prayer that will change your life?

“Yes, Lord!”

When we pray these two words, we acknowledge God is in charge and we are not. We give up control and place all of our trust in Him. The Lord is constantly moving in our lives through the power of the Holy Spirit, and when we simply pray, “Yes, Lord!” we are responding to His leading and direction. We are placing Him in charge of our lives.

“Yes, Lord!” is…

a prayer of surrender

a prayer of obedience

a prayer of faith

a prayer of confession

a prayer of gratitude

a prayer of humility

a prayer of brokenness

a prayer of sacrifice

a prayer of trust

Every time I pray these two words, I place God first in my life. I reboot my heart and return to what is most important… God as my Savior and Source. We start a spiritual journey when we pray these two words, and we stay connected when we pray them too. When we say yes to God, we are saying no to everything else. It places the Lord Jesus Christ at the center of our lives.

God can even use the weakest “Yes, Lord!” for His purposes. Pray the prayer that can change your life and the lives of others. “Yes, Lord!” is a breakthrough prayer that can be used to revitalize your prayer life. The Lord is pleased when He hears you speak these two words. Pray them aloud. Pray them silently. Whatever you do, just pray “Yes, Lord!” and experience His power and presence.

How FCA Virtual Works: Huddle Up!

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 13:31:20 GMT

Are you a Coach or Huddle Leader looking for way to connect and disciple Athletes during these challenging times? Check out one of the ways to do FCA Virtual Huddles!

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post how FCA Virtual Huddle Meeting works:

Check Out FCA Virtual in Laramie
Let's Break It Down
More About Huddle Up!

CHECK OUT FCA VIRTUAL IN LARAMIE.

University of WY FCA Director and FCA Laramie/Alumni, Aaron Frude, recently shared an update with FCA Staff and community saying, "What a powerful weekend to reflect upon the essence of our faith in the resurrection of our Savior! I hope you had a blessed weekend celebrating with your respective families.

Last week we had 15 from Laramie high join on the call in which we did a “connecting ice breaker” in small groups in the Zoom Breakout rooms, followed by watching the Huddle up meeting with a variety of testimonies from athletes and coaches, and then wrapped back up in the small groups for students to connect ag ain and process what was shared.

It was a great time for students to be encouraged in their faith, and connect directly with their peers as well!"

Let's Break It Down!

It sounds like FCA Laramie is off to a great start! We are also very thankful to hear from Aaron Frude how God is working in that corner of the State.

But! The same can happen for your Huddle wherever you are in WY.

Keeping below on what works for FCA Laramie Staff and S.A.L.T. with their Virtual Minsitry:

Email Reminders. FCA Staff in Laramie starts with emailing the Huddle Up plan to their area coaches to help distribute information, reminders and updates before and after these virtual meetings.

Teamwork. Next, FCA Staff sets up the call and facilitates the meeting and transitions. The Student Athlete Leadership Team or S.A.L.T. (Laramie High) also help lead in the breakout rooms and communicate with the group message reminders.

Texts and Links. Every Wednesday at 1:30 MST, Fellowship of Christian Athletes offers a global Huddle Up on YouTube.

Typically, on Tuesday nights, FCA Laramie sends out a zoom link and reminder through Remind Me Text message (which has been set up for their area) for Athletes to jump onto a Zoom call prior to Huddle Up on Wednesday.

Breakout Rooms and Icebreakers. Once on the call, FCA Staff sends Athletes to breakout groups (5-6 particIpants) to discuss an ice breaker for 8+ minutes with an assigned Leader.

An example for FCA Laramie:

What is something you are thankful for during past few weeks?
Share a hobby you have been doing while during the pandemic?

Watch and Discuss. Once the Global Huddle begins, FCA Staff shares the screen of the Live stream YouTube to listen in together. Then, following the Global Huddle Up video, Athletes go back to their breakout rooms to discuss and share what stood out to them in the video.

Prayer. After about fifteen minutes of discussion, a closing prayer is done by one of the FCA Student Athlete Leaders (in the breakout rooms).

Follow Up. FCA Staff have heard great responses from these Virtual Huddles.

"Students who have been on were really encouraged to be able to connect with their peers who they haven’t seen for a while, and they were also challenged and encouraged to hear from the testimonies and advice from the Christian Athletes and coaches.

In fact, the Virtual Meetings are going so well that Frude has plans to expand the possibilities.

"This week we are attempting to have other area huddles join as well for our middle schoolers.

I would, therefore, look to assign breakout rooms with students from the same schools together – for example – Laramie Middle schoolers together, Snowy Range Academy, UW Lab school, and Laramie High schoolers together. Ideally with 4-6 students per group."

Thank you to Frudes and their S.A.L.T. and Volunteers for continuing to impact and influence Albany County Athletes.

Keep reading below if you would like to know more about Huddle Up and Resources...

But first - If you are in Albany County or a part of University of Wyoming, will you prayerfully consider giving to the Frudes, so that they can continue to grow their sports ministry and serve the young Athletes?

MORE ABOUT HUDDLE UP!

" As we continue to explore what sports ministry looks like in our socially-distanced landscape, we're so excited to invite you to a global digital gathering–an online 'Huddle'.

In this season without sports, we hope these all-in Huddles will encourage and challenge you, and coaches and athletes around the world, who are searching for connection and sports-related content." -FCA.org

Go HERE for the official FCA Huddle Up Page.

There, you will find jpegs, direct links and discussion guide that you are welcome to use in break out rooms like Frudes and FCA Staff.

Also, be sure to follow @fca and @fcawyoming on Facbook and Instagroom for updates and share posts and infographics on your volunteer and personal pages to help spread the word.

If you have any questions, you are welcome to reach out to FCA Staff in your area or contact State Director Jim Hamilton jhamilton@fca.org .

Thank you for reading!

-FCA Wyoming

Will you pray for FCA Wyoming's Potential

IMPACT and INFLUENCE Online and in Virtual Minsistry?

34,000 Athletes & Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

Will you prayerfully consider donating to FCA WY State during this transition and situation within our Sports Culture?

Sports Movies to Watch and Stay 100% Motivated!

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 01:53:51 GMT

Is it hard to stay motivated right now with disruptions in routine and disconnection from your Sport community?

Take a look at some great movies we selected below for you to watch at home or watch together with your FCA Virtual Huddle! Their stories involve overcoming barriers and challenges that should inspire Athletes and Coaches and uniting together to bring God glory.

Also we provided a few questions to reflect personally or discuss together. #fcavirtual #fcawyvirtual

Woodlawn (PG)

One of the best Faith Based Football Movies and Message about Team Unity

This movie tell the story of a 1973 high school football team playing as ONE team for God's glory, during a time of desegregation and continued racism. A sports chaplain, with Fellowship of Christian Athletes, helps the Coach and team form a brotherhood of athletes to overcome their differences and form friendships on and off the field. Also, there are some great acting and high quality production as an added bonus!

Watch this film as an opportunity to reflect on how sports should break down barriers and provide the platform for Christian Athletes to both lead and serve others, individually and as a team.

Ask questions connected to Camp theme. Sacrifice, Surrender, Surround, Serve.

What were the sacrifices made for God's glory in this movie?

How did individual characters give up certain mindsets or behaviors and surrender to God's perspective and plan for them?

How did they surround themselves with Truth and find accountability? And how did this impact the Team as a whole?

What were the big and small ways these players, Coach, Chaplain and community served each other through their Sport?

How can this all apply to now, with stalled sports seasons and social isolation/distancing?

MacFarland, USA (PG)

Uplifting, Entertaining and Focus on Character Strengths

This movie takes place in rural California about a Mexican-American cross country team and their coach. Coach White becomes determined to take this group of farm worker's kids to the state championship. While this movie's message involves pushing back from stereotypes, the movie also shows how the team can impact the coach just as much. The boys are gifted, hard-working, loving and likable. This makes the movie more than inspirational. It is also entertaining and uplifting!

Ask questions connected to Camp theme. Sacrifice, Surrender, Surround, Serve.

What does this movie say or show about hard work and discipline as an Athlete and as a character trait?

What was the movie's message about community and teamwork?

Which characters did you most relate to or identify with? What personal growth or lessons did you see in them as Athlete or Coach?

How can you as an Athlete help others against stereo-types and barriers in Sports world?

How can you grow as a Christian Athlete/Coach and help as Community Member during this stalled sports seasons and social isolation/distancing?

The Miracle Season (PG)

Great Volleyball Scenes and Story about Loss and Preserverance

This movie shares the story of a high school volleyball team dealing with their captain's untimely death. Viewers are treated to great volleyball scenes and will enjoy positive messages about honoring lost loved ones and teamwork through this tough and resilient team.

Ask questions connected to Camp theme. Sacrifice, Surrender, Surround, Serve.

What was Teamwork in the movie? Define what you see as Teamwork.

Which characters do you consider role models? Why?

How do the characters handle their grief in this movie?

Have you ever dealt with that kind of loss? How did Sport and your faith in Jesus help you?

Have you been experiencing any loss this past sports season or grief? How can we pray for you?

Overcomer (PG)
Inspiring and Popular Faith Based Movie

This faith-based movie focuses on forgiveness and compassion. Characters ultimately understand this through Christ's death and sacrifice. When high school basketball coach starts coaching cross-country team, he finds only one member: a girl named Hannah. This athlete proves to be a remarkable person and athlete.

Download questions and guides HERE .

Honorable Mentions for PG Sports Movies

Miracle (For Hockey Fans but inspiring for a Team's Commitment and Hard Work)

Remember the Titans (From History and Feel Good Message)

Radio (Heart warming, lessons in kindness)

Rudy (Sean Austin delivers another great, powerful performance in a football movie packed full of inspiration.)

The Rookie (Entertaining Baseball Movie that will inspire!)

PG -13 Movies

The Blind Side

23 Blast

Hope this helps! Thank you for reading.

-FCA Wyoming

Will you pray for FCA Wyoming's Potential

IMPACT and INFLUENCE Online and in Virtual Minsistry?

34,000 Athletes & Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

Will you prayerfully consider donating to FCA WY during this transition and situation within our Sports Culture?

UPDATE on BHSU FCA Camp 2020!

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 16:17:50 GMT

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

Last updated 4/5/20

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post our latest update and announcement regarding our Black Hills Sports Camp this June 2020:

Regional Statement
From FCA WY State Director
Game Plan for Athletes and Coaches

However...

Before you read on, we want to express to you that FCA IS STILL HERE for our Athletes and Coaches. Ministry has not stopped - just changed for the mean time. Our desire remains to continue engaging, equipping and empowering Campers from previous years as well as Athletes and Coaches who want to grow in their FAITH and SPORT now!

Please reach out to us with any questions or prayer needs during this challenging time! And read to the end of this blog to find out what's next for Athletes and Coaches with #fcavirtual and #fcavirtualwy

- FCA Wyoming

WATCH BELOW CAMP 2019 HUDDLE LEADERS words of encouragement for Campers!

FROM OUR REGIONAL DIRECTOR: OFFICIAL STATEMENT

Rockies FCA Summer Sports Camp Update:

Due to the Covid 19 virus, overnight sports camps in the Rockies Region will be suspended for the summer of 2020. Our summer camping programs are dependent on many factors that are outside our control. First off we are not prepared to deal with this virus on site.

A scenario in which someone had Corona Virus would be extremely difficult to navigate as we are responsible for each child and staff. Also, we are at the mercy of vendors and venues that each have different Covid 19 policies.

Finally, due to school closers and economic uncertainty it would be nearly impossible to staff, recruit and finance such a large endeavor. I know each or you understand that we are in uncharted territory and our team is doing its best to navigate the new ministry playing field.

If your athlete has registered for camps, FCA will be able to reimburse your camper fee. Please work with your local FCA office to execute this transaction.

FCA will be looking at every opportunity to serve coaches and athletes in this new season of ministry and we appreciate your partnership in FCA. Thank you for your understanding!

Prayerfully,

Mike Sanfratello

VP of Field Ministries Rockies Region

Keep reading below to hear from our Camp Director and FCA WY State Directors on Camp Cancellation...

NOTE FROM WYOMING DIRECTOR

In our March post, " WE ARE TEAM FCA WY: Our Response to Current Situation ," FCA Wyoming announced the transition to #fcavirtual and the postponements and cancellations for this spring and summer events for FCA WY. FCA WY State Director, Jim Hamilton, also shared his words of encouragement as sports communities move forward though this hard season, saying:

We are also doing it out of respect for those in authority, our national, state and local elected leaders and our health care professionals. Let’s do our part to flatten the curve! Please pray for our Staff and their families, as well."

Check out what is HAPPENING NOW with #fcavirtual #fcavirtualwy HERE .

GAME PLAN MOVING FORWARD

The past few months FCA has been planning and getting things organized for Camp this summer. So, of course, the decision to cancel Camp has been felt by Staff as a hard but necessary one. Meanwhile, Camp Director, Ernie Mecca, has been busy notifying Camp Staff and families of this decision. If you have already enrolled and paid for camp, Camp Registrar, Cody Bordewyk , will be contacting you about cancellations and refunds!

The past few weeks, FCA WY Staff have been working hard a virtual training and connecting with Task Force Teams and Huddle Leaders. We want to continue to disciple and serve Athletes and Coaches around the State. We also want to help keep Campers growing in their faith and Sport!

FOR CAMPERS

Follow us on Instagram @fcacampblackhills WE WILL BE DOING LIVE VIDEO AND HASHTAG CHALLENGES.
WY Campers - check in with our blog and FCA WY Instagram @fcawyoming for latest reads and happenings. Start with this BLOG post below.
Nebraska and South Dakota Campers - please reach out to John Girard for any questions or ways to stay connected.
For everyone - HUDDLE UP! Join Global Live-streaming event by Fellowship of Christian Athletes WED @1:30 (MST) 3:30 (EST) on YouTube.

READ about the history of our Black Hills Sports Camp HERE.

FOR COACHES AND VOLUNTEERS

Feel free Coaches to reach out to your State FCA Staff to find out what's happening!
WY coaches - we want to continue to meet virtually via Zoom and google Hangouts. Contact Jim Hamilton for more information or your local FCA Staff.
If you are a Huddle Leader, check in with FCA Staff to learn about virtual meeting opportunities and other virtual events.
Follow us and read the Blog for resources and encouragement! Start with this Blog HERE .

Wherever you are - we are here for you! Please reach out to us for any prayer needs. We also will be putting out some hashtag challenges and video request so be on the look out so you can be apart of our virtual

Huddling UP!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming and FCA Camp Black Hills

WE ARE TEAM FCA WY: Our Response to Current Situation

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 14:13:44 GMT

Please read below FCA Wyoming's response to current state and global situation. Blessing and prayers from our Staff and Volunteers.

(2 min. Read)

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post FCA Wyoming's Response to the current state and global situation:

Official FCA Response to Coronovirus
Changes Made to Public Events and Face to Face Meetings
Ministry is Moving Fully Online and Going Virtual

But first...

Read these thoughts from our Sate Director, Jim Hamilton.

"It is important to remember that we are making these changes in response to what is best for the safety and health of everyone. This is not out of fear, but out of love. Love God and love others - the Jesus Creed! We are also doing it out of respect for those in authority, our national, state and local elected leaders and our health care professionals. Let’s do our part to flatten the curve!

Please pray for our Staff and their families, as well."

- Jim Hamilton, FCA WY State Director

WITH PRAYERS FROM TEAM FCA WYOMING

Official FCA STATEMENT ON CORONAVIRUS

With multiple local, national and international sporting events cancelled or postponed due to the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19, or coronavirus, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes released the following statement today.

“As the world strives together to combat the COVID-19 outbreak, we at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes are praying for those who have been affected by this terrible virus and for those in leadership at all levels who are making difficult decisions for the safety of coaches, athletes, parents and fans,” said FCA President and CEO Shane Williamson.

“We also sympathize with the heartbreak that coaches and athletes are experiencing due to the cancellation of their seasons, and pray they will be shown understanding and grace.

Despite everything happening in our world, we rest on the hope and peace that only Jesus Christ can provide. John 14:27 reminds us that, ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid’ (NIV).”

-FCA-

Changes Made to Public Events and Face to Face Meetings: CANCELLED OR POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

In response to current state and global situation, we will be moving our ministry fully online until our Athletes and Coaches can meet and play face to face again. This is a challenging time for every community and we are praying for each of you.

We are cancelling/postponing our FACE TO FACE AND PUBLIC FCA WY Events and Meetings include: Annual Banquet

Night of Champions Live Streaming (May become virtual)

All Face to Face Huddles, Volunteer and Staff Meetings. Please refrain from meeting with any Huddles, TFT Team, Coaches in person at this time.

Status of June Power Camps and Black Hills Sports Camp to still be announced!

MINISTRY IS CURRENTLY MOVING ONLINE AND GOING VIRTUAL
#fcavirtual #fcavirtualwy

We are so thankful how God had already been providing for FCA, in these times, with huge changes within FCA technology and upgrades to our websites. As a result, our sudden shift to online and virtual ministry will not be a difficult one!

The next few weeks our Staff will be training to serve and minister virtually for:

Virtual Prayer
Virtual Student Athlete Leadership Training
Virtual Huddle Meetings
Virtual Task Force Training
Virtual Staff Training
Virtual Night of Champions

We plan to start virtual meetings by first week of April. However, the official times and dates are still to be announced.

Of course, you can also find us social media. You are welcome to check out the Blog, too! FCA WY plans to make FCAWYOMING.ORG the hub for all our online and virtual activity so feel free to check back here often.

We cannot wait to reconnect or even connect for the first time with our WY Athletes, Coaches and Volunteers - SEE THE PEOPLE, SEE THE FACES OF FCA!

#FCAVIRTUAL: A NEW WAY OF COMMUNITY

Published on March 19, 2020

FCA.ORG

In the middle of such constantly changing times, there are a few things that stay the same: God’s Word, our call to be disciples who make disciples, and our need to grow in our faith.

For 65 years, FCA has been engaged in sports ministry, constantly innovating to effectively reach the changing landscape our coaches and athletes experience. As we look at the new reality of off-site ministry, we want to seize the opportunity and build momentum in a new, digital era.

Bottom line: we want to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

Will you pray for FCA Wyoming's Potential

IMPACT and INFLUENCE Online and in Virtual Minsistry?

34,000 Athletes & Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

Will you prayerfully consider donating to FCA WY during this transition and situation within our Sports Culture?

WY Coach's Corner: Some Encouragement for Coaches

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 21:48:47 GMT

Are you a Christian Coach looking for words of encouragement? In this post, we want to get straight to the matter -a coach's heart and soul.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post some encouraging words and helpful resources to equip and empower YOU, the coach. Your heart. Your soul. Your impact and influence on athletes and sport for Jesus!

Build Your Coaching on the Bedrock
FROM FCA I PursueGod.org

The sports world says that for coaches, winning more games, moving up the coaching ladder, or moving up the pay scale is what it’s all about. But is it?

TAKE A LOOK AT THIS COACH'S PRAYER POSTER

DOWNOAD IT HERE .

“But it must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

— Mark 10: 43

FROM FCA DAILY IMPACT PLAY :

True Greatness
BY BILLY COLEMAN JANUARY 8, 2020

Who’s the best? Who’s number one? Who is the greatest? These are all questions we ask in our culture—all very important questions. As a coach, I’ve spent much time and energy trying to persuade young people to work in order to win a game, to determine who is best on a playing field.

Ask almost anyone in America who is great, and they will answer with names of those who score touchdowns, hit balls a long distance, and slam dunk basketballs; people who sing great songs or are great actors; strong people; powerful people who tell others what to do; people who can have anything they want, go anywhere they want and do anything they want to do. Such is greatness as we define it in our time. And then along comes Jesus, who changes everything.

Finally, take a look at some resources from the FCA Gear Online Store!

"This leather, compact-sized bible features 365 devotions written specifically for coaches with scripture references to encourage and equip them to spend regular time with God. It includes study helps and features the FCA logo on the cover." - FCA Gear, online store

"In 3D Coach, Dr. Duke recounts his own journey through the three dimensions of coaching and how it has impacted his life and those around him. 3D Coach also brings personal stories from all levels of coaches who have implemented the 3D concept into their own programs and points to Jesus Christ, the Master Coach, as the ultimate example of leading athletes to true significance." - FCA Gear, online store

Thank you for reading!

Blessings,

FCA Wyoming

Will you pray for FCA Wyoming's Potential

IMPACT and INFLUENCE:

34,000 Athletes and Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

If you would like to give to FCA, click on the button below.

God With Us: Merry Christmas from FCA WY

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 19:39:42 GMT

Here is our FCA WY Christmas card to you via blog!

"...shall call His name Immanuel, God With Us." - Isaiah 7:14

2019 was a year to remember! We had record numbers for Camp in Black Hills, a great Game Day, amazing Power Camps, first Fields of Faith in Rock Springs, three new part time Staff added in the Wyoming Western Region, and a new rocking website!

More than that, FCA WY staff are very thankful for the prayers and service that Wyoming churches and Ministry Volunteers and Leaders have so faithfully given over this past year.

We cannot wait to see where God takes FCA WY in 2020- including Night of Champions, more Power Camps and Fields of Faith, Camp and more ministry opportunities in the works. Stay tuned!

Merry Christmas!

FCA Wyoming

Check out below some encouraging messages during Christmas season - the birth of our King Jesus!

In 1854, young Charles Spurgeon preached his Christmas Eve sermon based on Isaiah 7: 14-15. Watch this video below that shares this beautiful message.

FROM MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST DEVOTIONAL

“My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you…” (Galatians 4:19). Just as our Lord came into human history from outside it, He must also come into me from outside. Have I allowed my personal human life to become a “Bethlehem” for the Son of God? I cannot enter the realm of the kingdom of God unless I am born again from above by a birth totally unlike physical birth. “You must be born again” (John 3:7). This is not a command, but a fact based on the authority of God. The evidence of the new birth is that I yield myself so completely to God that “Christ is formed” in me. And once “Christ is formed” in me, His nature immediately begins to work through me.

- Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest

FROM PURSUEGOD.ORG

Christmas is obviously not just about how many lights you can fit on the tree. Just look at the response of the wise men and shepherd boys.

Take a look at some of our 2019 FCA WY events.

If you would like to give to FCA this holiday season, click on the button below.

Beyond the Huddle: FCA WY and the Church

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 20:23:00 GMT

Did you know that FCA's Vision and Mission involves the Church? Read this post to learn more about athletes and the Church.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about FCA WY and the Church:

The Vision and Mission of FCA
The Athlete and the Church
FCA Wyoming and the Church

The Vision and Mission of FCA

"F CA has been challenging coaches and athletes on the professional, college, high school, junior high and youth levels to use the powerful platform of sport to reach every coach and every athlete with the transforming power of Jesus Christ. FCA focuses on serving local communities around the globe by engaging, equipping and empowering coaches and athletes to unite, inspire and change the world through the gospel." - FCA.org

Since established in 1956, Fellowship of Christian Athletes has desired to put the HEART and SOUL into Sports with the following Vision and Mission:

VISION

To see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes.

MISSION

To lead EVERY coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

Over the course of sixty five years, this Vision and Mission has been our central focus. From our Huddles to Camp, we want to share the Good News and introduce Coaches and Athletes to Jesus. We believe this truly transforms coaching and playing sport, taking instruction, performance, and teamwork to the next level!

At the same time, we believe that discipleship must be a big part of ministry, in order for Coaches and Athletes to continue growing in their faith and influence beyond the Huddle or Camp experience.

As a volunteer intense ministry, FCA also needs the help of people who love Jesus and Sport to share the Gospel and disciple those in FCA as a faith community.

That is where the relationship between the Church and FCA becomes such a vital one!

The Athlete and the Church

If you take a look at our FCA WY and the Church page , you will read "A Christian without a church is like an athlete without a team."

Basically, FCA needs the Church and the Church needs FCA.

Wyoming boasts a BIG sports culture, with over 60% of youth in some kind of sport and over 34,000 coaches and athletes now playing. This means as the lowest populated state we have a huge number of people who love Sport.

AND

We also want them to love Jesus!

"I have often said for many years that FCA is a season and the church is a life time. There is plenty of room for FCA to help equip an athlete to how to honor God in and through their sport and being part of a church community where they learn the theology and information as to what it means to be a follower of Jesus," Jim Hamilton, State Director shares in an interview about FCA and the Church in WY.

It is also where they learn about being in community and fellowship with other Christ followers that will a life long source of strength and encouragement."

Check out below two ways FCA and the Church can impact and influence WY Athletes and Coaches.

The Pursuit

As mentioned earlier, within our FCA community, we definitely want to challenge Athletes, Coaches, and FCA Leaders to go deeper in their faith and Christian experience. Recently, FCA has partnered with Pursue God series, a conversational devotion platform that asks questions and start dialogues for people of faith and sport.

For FCA WY, we want every FCA Staff and Leader to dive into these great resources and ministry tools for themselves and to disciple others.

As Jim stated, however, we believe that Wyoming Athletes and Coaches need even more! As a result, we want to connect FCA community to the Church to keep the conversations, connections and growth continuing.

Will you prayerfully consider financially giving to our State Office, to help support the training of Staff and Volunteers?

A Partnership

So what exactly does the partnership between FCA WY and the Church in WY look like?

The word FCA WY likes to to use is SYNERGY.

By partnering with the Church, we want to create "a synergy of genuine influence in the community" (FCA.org). We believe our platform to reach Athletes and Coaches will ultimately impact families, communities, and church members. It also gives local churches an amazing opportunity to unite, minister and serve, share the Good News, and disciple Christian Athletes and Coaches.

Keep reading below to see how we work together with the Church!

Black Hills FCA Sport Camp 2019. Evening Chapels with Worship and Camp Chaplain.

FCA WY and the Church

FCA Wyoming believes that putting the Heart and Soul into Sport transforms lives and communities. We do this by building up our Volunteers and helping them take the lead in ministry through Huddles, promoting Sports Camp, helping Power Camp, hosting Fields of Faith, starting Task Force Teams, and supporting FCA Staff.

We do all this through the help of the Church:

HUDDLES

FCA Huddles work as certified Bible Studies for Athletes and Coaches. A certified ministry leader, called a Huddle Leader, helps by leading, serving, and discipling a Team Huddle, Coaches Huddle, Multi-Sports Huddle or Student Athlete Leadership Team. They also work with Task Force Teams to host community events.

This certified Volunteer may also be a campus sport coach, a rec sports coach, someone with a specific sports back ground, either as a coach or athlete, pastor, a parent, a college student athlete or local business person.

In fact, this Huddle Leader is probably someone from your church!

"I think of the pastor that helped start FCA at Big Piney HS 30 years ago and still at 85 years old is bringing lunch to the athletes meeting to get the huddle restarted," reflects Hamilton on FCA Huddle ministry.

To best sum it up - FCA Huddle Leaders love Jesus and they love Sport!

SPORTS CAMP

Every summer, our Multi-State Sports Camp takes on 300+ campers, along with Staff and Coaches at the Black Hills State University campus.

Five days of intense competition, athletic training, excellent coaching, and building leaders - we love EVERYTHING about CAMP!

But...

Did you know that Churches not only promote Camp and fund Camp Scholarships - WY churches have literally helped student athletes get on the bus, by providing transportation for Campers across the State.

Last Camp (2019), we also had over a hundred Jesus and Sport loving people join our Prayer Coverage team to cover the Camp in prayers each day and all day. What an incredible blessing!

As you can see, the Church certainly serves a vital part in Campers' journey to Camp and the experience with Jesus there, even from the very beginning!

Read more about the CAMP experience HERE .

FIELDS OF FAITH

This year (2019), with the help of local churches we hosted Wyoming's first ever Fields of Faith . It was an amazing opportunity to minister and reach out to the area's student athletes and coaches.

On Fields of Faith ministry, Jim shares, "I am so grateful for our partner churches in Rock Springs that have mutually benefited from FCA. Several if not many of the local volunteers come from their church. We benefit from the relationship through those volunteers and they benefit by have so many of their members doing ministry."

FCA Wyoming wants to see every corner of the state host a Fields of Faith next year! If you want to learn more about this event, reach out to our local Staff .

POWER CAMPS

One of the things we love most about sports ministry is seeing the positive impact and influence FCA has on younger athletes.

Each summer, along with our Sports Camp theme, FCA WY provides day camps for kids ages 8-12. These Power Camps give young athletes an environment to develop their athletic skills, while at the same time hearing the encouraging message of the Gospel - God loves them!

Power Camp Volunteers come from local churches to provide food, set up, and lead activities.

"We partnered with a church for a Basketball Power Camp. Hearing the pastor, with emotion, tell me that the men and fathers that were involved had been greatly strengthened and encouraged by the opportunity to serve, was amazing."

What a great way to transform EVERY life in Wyoming!

TASK FORCE TEAMS

FCA WY wants to build up our Adult Leadership Ministry Teams. In former years, they were called Adult Chapters. Today, we call them Task Force Teams.

Essentially, Task Force Teams work as a deeply committed team of certified volunteers. They give laser focus to FCA's ministries (Huddles and Events like Fields of Faith), support local FCA Staff, and get those who love Jesus and Sport connected with the Church and fellowship together in the joy of serving God!

To learn more about this FCA WY ministry, go HERE .

FINANCIAL GIVING

As a non-profit organization, our sustainability depends on the generous giving of individuals, groups, and churches. From becoming financial partners to hosting fundraising events - local churches can trust that their financial investment and support with our Sports Ministry will go far into sharing the Good News and reaching 34,000 people who love Sport (athletes and coaches).

So many options exist in supporting FCA, so be sure to check them out HERE .

And...one more thing -

Will you pray for FCA in Wyoming to impact and influence every coach and athlete in Wyoming?

There you have it!

Blessings,

- FCA Wyoming

Will you pray for FCA Wyoming's Potential

IMPACT and INFLUENCE Online and in Virtual Minsistry?

34,000 Athletes & Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

Will you prayerfully consider donating to FCA WY during this transition and situation within our Sports Culture?

FCA and Navy SEALs Training: It Really Happened!

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 16:23:24 GMT

Update: Jim Hamilton is currently State Director and Western Director since this article was last published.

Take a look back on FCA West Divsion Leadership Boost and the intense 36 Hour experience for our FCA WY Staff with Navy SEALs.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post about FCA's West Division Leadership Boost with NAVY SEALs in California last year:

About the FCA West Division Leadership Boost
FCA Wyoming Looks Back
How NAVY SEALs Mindset Helps FCA WY

Alright, let's get to it!

About FCA's West Division Leadership Boost

The FCA West Division Leadership Boost serves as a yearly opportunity to connect the West Division Leadership Team (FCA Directors and Staff) and boost their leadership to the next level. This year's Leadership Boost was an amazing experience that we look forward to sharing soon.

Until then, we want catch you up on 2018's event because it was a brutal challenge that our FCA WY absolutely rocked. There were Navy SEALs, too. So extra awesome.

Last Year's Event

In 2018, the Western Division Leadership Boost (FCA Staff) met in California to grow together as a team and get outside their comfort levels.

This 36 hour leadership experience, hosted by Jimmy Page (VP of Western Division of US FCA), involved FCA Leadership training, along with an immersive, intensive program led by an organization of veteran Navy SEALs.

Watch the video below to see FCA staff's extreme experience!

FCA WY Looks Back

For Current State Director (then Western WY Area Director), the experience at Leadership Boost 2018 impacted him in a big way.

"Those hours at Navy SEALs training for the West Division Leadership boost were brutal. In fact, the best way to describe this experience is this - it sucked! Seriously, it was horrible at times.

But...

It was also one of the best FCA and personal experiences I have ever had. The idea behind our time there was to learn how to embrace how much it sucked," says Jim, while he shared his experience, speaking at a local church.

Screenshots courtesy from West Division Leadership Boost 2018 video.

"Life and the Christian life can be challenging at times and the ability to embrace the hard stuff will help you get through. That perspective also applied to our Navy SEALs training, covered in sand, drenched, and exhausted on the beach and in the woods."

Jim continued, "What helped us get through the drills was to change our mindsets with the Navy SEALs Trainers' 40% rule. This rule says that when we think we have given our all, we have only given 40%. We are actually always capable of so much more.

In the end, the Teams' success relied on both the individual and groups working together and being prepared for the obstacles ahead.

No one could give up because we all needed each other. Just as Paul says in 1 Timothy 4:14-16."

"Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you through the prophecy spoken over you at the laying on of the hands of the elders. Be diligent in these matters and absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to your life and to your teaching. Persevere in these things, for by so doing you will save both yourself and those who hear you..."

Screenshots courtesy from West Division Leadership Boost 2018 video. From left to right - second photo of Ernie Mecca (former State and Area Director, currently Field Staff for Medicine Bow) and Aaron Frude (UW FCA Director.)

How This Mindset Impacts FCA WY

Likewise, the concept of "being all in" plays such a vital role - to surviving not only Navy SEALs training - but also for FCA remaining a sustainable sport ministry in Wyoming as a whole state.

To sum it up - we want everyone in the FCA community to feel connected and apart of something great.

AND WE NEED EACH OTHER TO DO JUST THAT.

So, how does Navy SEALs Training Impact FCA Wyoming?

Along with tackling the obstacles and challenges in the tough terrain, the staff saw this event as an opportunity to accomplish and experience 3 objectives as FCA leaders:

- Get comfortable with being uncomfortable
- Expand leadership capacity through adversity
- Develop a Team work culture

And ultimately, we want to transfer this FCA Leadership training objectives into FCA Wyoming. We want to work hard at serving our areas through recruiting and training volunteers, helping coaches and athletes grow in sports and faith, and continue to be a unified team with staff and volunteers throughout Wyoming and our regions.

This requires transparency, too.

We want to be honest - many challenges exist in doing ministry, particularly in Wyoming. As if geographic and weather challenges were not enough, our Staff must find funding in the least populated State and work with communities with some of highest statistics of suicide and depression rates, the highest divorce rates in U.S. and growing homelessness rates, along with a low church and Bible study attendance compared to the national average (see references below.)

So, while living in Wyoming, provides breath taking and inspiring view of God's Creation and serving strong, independent and resilient folks, the isolation and harsh conditions make this square state an amazing opportunity to share Christ's love and bring belonging.

But...

We see that as the most amazing part of sports ministry. Wyoming boasts a strong sports culture, with over 60% of youth in some kind of sport. Our strong sports culture gives student athletes an opportunity to connect and our small but packed communities to unite.

FCA WY wants to see this Sports Culture transformed so that EVERY Coach and Every Athlete will be led into a relationship with Jesus and His Church. We want to do that through our ministry with FCA Student Leaders, FCA Huddle Leaders, Volunteers, and Camp .

And we gladly accept this mission and its challenges!!

There you have it. FCA WY and Navy SEALs training - it really happened!

Blessings

-FCA Wyoming

What Next?

I want to learn more about FCA.

I want to volunteer for FCA WY.

I want to makes a donation to FCA WY.

References

https://www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/college-of-arts-and-sciences/NCFMR/documents/FP/hemez-divorce-rate-geo-variation-2016-fp-17-24.pdf

https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/suicide-20-states-with-highest-rates/19/

https://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/wyoming-s-homeless-population-continues-to-grow-despite-sharp-drop/article_83559a96-5320-56b2-ac8b-0124857422ca.html

https://www.pewforum.org/religious-landscape-study/state/wyoming/

Camp 2020 Theme Has Been Announced and We 100% Love It!

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 20:16:22 GMT

In 2019 we accepted the Camp challenge to go BIG, BOLD, BUILD, and BEYOND with Let's GO! Camp Theme. What is the Camp Theme for 2020? Keep reading to find out.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post the three things to know about the Camp Theme for 2020 to for our Huddles, Huddle Coaches, and Task Force Teams to recruit athletes to Camp:

The Logo
The Bible Verse
The Resources

FCA WY is so pumped to give you the low down on Camp 2020...

But first a little backstory on our Multi-State Black Hills Camp.

Photo from FCA Black Hills Sports Camp.

Background on Black Hills Sports Camp

Our Black Hills Sports Cam p takes places in Spearfish, South Dakota every summer in the beautiful Black Hills and campus of BHSU. As a Multi-State Sports Camp, FCA WY works and serves along other FCA Staff from Nebraska and South Dakota, as well. This gives us an awesome opportunity to connect with other FCA family and see God work in the lives of student athletes from other States (and even across some rivalries!).

Snapshot of Our Sports Camp

Our Wyoming FCA Camp was originally sited at Northwest College in Powell. However, the Camp eventually out grew the NWC facility. Wanting to expand beyond only 2-3 sports allowed to be held on campus, the direction for the Camp moved to Black Hills State University.

As a result, the first Northern Black Hills Sports Camp in Spearfish was in 2007. Take a look below at a few Camp photos over the years to see how it has grown!

For Camp Director (and then State Director of WY), the move to Spearfish seemed like the right decision for the Camp.

"Between 40-50% of our campers were coming from Eastern Wyoming and South Dakota so moving the camp was very beneficial for those campers. Our Wyoming numbers didn’t decrease when we moved to Spearfish but our SD and Nebraska numbers went up," shares Mecca when interviewed about Black Hills Camp's history.

From the Camp Director

As a BHSU Alumni and Black Jacket Hall of Fame member for his coaching career, Ernie Mecca has been overseeing the Camp, now in its 13th year at the Black Hills State University Campus. For Mecca, the role of Camp Director is not just a job, it is something personal:

"While serving as a basketball coach God changed my life at FCA camp in 2002. The FCA staff set the table for a great camp experience for the campers and the coaches and my mission as director is to continue doing that for future campers and coaches.

Photos from FCA Black Hills Sports Camp.

We have expanded the camp to include coaches and their families and bless them as much as we can. Our staff work hard to create a great environment not only for sport skills development but also for the Holy Spirit to work in the lives of campers, coaches and their families.

God shows up every summer and impacts lives in a mighty way at FCA Sports Camp!"

Just as Mecca shared, this calling to serve Athletes and Coaches through FCA Camp makes us excited for Camp year after year, whatever the theme! Last year, 300+ campers attended our Sports Camp. We pray this year we will meet those numbers again.

If you want to read more about this Camp - make sure you check out the article below!

Top 8 List for FCA Camp Black Hills Lets Go 2019

https://www.fcawyoming.org/top-8-list-for-fca-camp-black-hills-let-s-go-2019

REGISTER FOR OUR BLACK HILLS SPORTS CAMP 2020 NOW!

Now onto the Camp 2020 theme just released!

The Camp 2020 Theme is...

The Logo

The Bible Verse

“And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all

your strength.” --Mark 12:30

From FCA Camp Theme Release:

What does your sport require of you?

One hundred percent of your time, attention, ability and

ambition. Your sweat becomes a sacrifice. Your pain becomes your passion. Your dedication

achieves your dream.

When we give 100%, the impossible becomes possible.

What does Jesus Christ require of you?

One hundred percent of your heart, soul, mind and strength. Jesus Christ gave his very life so we may attain the impossible—a personal relationship with Him. He requires no less from us.

The Resources

ATTENTION! All FCA WY Huddle Coaches, S.A.L.T, Task Force Teams, Coaches and Volunteers:

We want to hook you up with the resources you need to promote and share Camp with Huddles and at FCA events - w hether it is for banners on Huddle Flyers, Facebook posts, or info about Camp!

Go to FCA WY Resources for all things Black Hills Sports Camp promotions.

There you have it - Camp over the years and Camp Theme for 2020!

We are 100% excited about Camp next summer and all the things God is doing in Wyoming through FCA, His Church and our sports culture and communities.

Thanks for reading!

- FCA Wyoming

Help us see the world AND WYOMING transformed by Jesus Christ

through the influence of coaches and athletes.

Financial gifts contribute to the sustainability of FCA in Wyoming. Visit our SUPPORT FCA WY page to make a donation today!

Would you like to support FCA with a donation?

Heart of a Wyoming Coach: Interview #1

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 17:24:26 GMT

"Striving to make the world a better place one push-up at a time." - Coach G.

Camp Coaches.

Last updated August 5, 2020.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post how FCA WY wants to minister to our WY coaches and share our interview with a coach who went to Camp this past June (2019):

Interview with WY Coach
To and Through the Coach Strategy
FCA Coaches' Ministry

Camp Impact on Coaches

If you have been praying for a way to impact and influence WY Sports culture, you have to come to the right place! FCA provides the opportunity, tools and resources for our Volunteers to lead others into a relationship with Jesus and grow in their Sport.

This past June (2019), around our country and the world, Fellowship of Christian Athletes held Camps for athletes and coaches under the banner theme of Let's Go! from Matthew 28:18-20. This Camp theme challenged Campers to see that "True competitors encourage each other to greatness."

At our Black Hills Sports Camp in Spearfish, Dakota, the theme was certainly apparent. With five days of intense competition and athletic training and coaching, athletes were asked to push themselves out of their comfort zones, show true TEAMWORK and play for God's glory.

The sweat, the exhaustion, the competition...

It was all amazing to watch play out for athletes, huddles and even the Camp Coaches that week.

About Camp Coaches

Camp Coaches serve as a huge role in making Camp an impact on Athletes and Campers. At our Black Hills Sports Camp, we strive to provide safe, healthy environments for our Campers. Furthermore, our Camp Coaches give exceptional coaching and instruction to challenge student athletes in their Sport and Faith at Camp.

All in all, each Sport activity (swimming, basketball, tennis, volleyball, golf, wrestling, track and field, cross country, soccer, and football) presented Camp Coaches with the opportunity to minister to Campers in a way like no other. Camp is an amazing time!

Interview with a Camp Coach

During the Black Hills Camp, Coaches and Football Campers, ranging from middle school to High school, met on the Lyle Hare Stadium Field. Despite the hot summer weather, they gathered together under the rally cry "Let's Go!" and continuously gave their all as individuals and teams.

One of the football Camp Coaches was Coach Darin Gilbertson, a football coach from WY.

Check out what he says about his experience as a Camp Coach:

"FCA camp provided an opportunity to coach the hearts of our athletes with a Christian and biblical foundation. It was an amazing week of faith, family, friends, and football!

One major blessing coming away from camp is how, after a week of coaching hard, you are actually renewed and refreshed! There are opportunities to grow through studies, prayer and fellowship, as well as the collaboration of new ideas to take back home as FCA leaders and coaches. It’s awesome!

Coaching at an FCA camp is such a tremendous opportunity to surround yourself with strong people who share your love and passion for teaching things the right way and backing it all up through scripture, testimony and prayer. It’s an unbelievably powerful experience!"

Hearing how Coach G. was impacted at Camp gets us pumped up and not just for Camp - but also for post-camp when Coaches go back to their Teams and Sport to go big, go bold, go build, and go beyond in their faith!

AND in the same way...

Campers are transformed at Camp through their Coaches!

"I learned how to do sports Gods way." - Camper

"This camp has helped me spiritually and athletically because it has taught me and showed me how to not find all my identity through sports. It also showed me that we were all meant to use our talent in helping someone else throughout life, that God didn’t just save us FROM something but saved us FOR something." - Camper

If you would like to read more about FCA Camp, Coaches, and Campers, go HERE.

To and Through the Coach

Coach Gilbertson's experience at Camp certainly epitomizes FCA's Vision and Mission for all Coaches in Wyoming: "to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church" and "to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes."

In other words, we want to engage, empower and equip Wyoming Coaches just like Coach G. who have a heart for Jesus and Sport. Also, we want to meet other and all coaches wherever they are in their faith journey and throughout our square state.

And while this can and does happen at Camp, transformation and impact can also happen to Coaches back home, in their own communities and through their local FCA.

How does this work?

Our Strategy

Billy Graham once said, “A coach will impact more people in one year than the average person will in an entire lifetime.”

With the influence of a Coach, FCA recognizes that the most strategic way to reach more athletes comes from ministering to and through the Coach. This means w e want to first minster and serve Coaches hearts, marriages and families. Then, when ready, we minister through these transformed Coaches to their fellow coaches, teams and athlete leaders.

In return, FCA Wyoming believes that this strategy will impact the over 34,000 athletes and coaches in Wyoming!!

FCA WY Coaches Ministry

FCA Wyoming provides several opportunities to minister and serve to the Coach. Take a look below at some of what we do:

Coaches Huddle

A Coaches Huddle is a certified small Bible Study. Becoming a Huddle Coach, a Coach can lead a Bible study. Take for example, our Pinedale Coaches Bible Study meets regularly each week, reading the 3D book and praying together.

FCA Coaches Academy

FCA provides world-class training to come alongside you and serve you as you seek to become a transformational coach for your athletes. FCA has been granted a license as a “ Level 3 Partner ” of the 3D Institute. This allows FCA to take their 3Dimensional Coaching academic curriculum and create a faith-based version for our coaches ministry.

Task Force Teams and Churches

Volunteers for Task Force Teams and from local churches serve on a Coaches Committee specifically focused on ways to serve Coaches and their families which include Coaches breakfasts and lunches, Night out and taking the lead on events to get student athletes into a Huddle and go to Camps.

If you would like to learn more about WHAT WE DO, go HERE .

There you have it....

FCA WY desires to impact the hearts, lives and families of our Coaches. We hope that you will join us in that ministry through prayer, serving, leading and giving!

We also would love to hear more stories like Coach G. to share and encourage our Sports community and culture in Wyoming.

Thank you for reading. And, thank you to Coach G. for sharing your Camp story with FCA!

God Bless,

FCA Wyoming

Help us see the world AND WYOMING transformed by Jesus Christ

through the influence of coaches and athletes.

Financial gifts contribute to the sustainability of FCA in Wyoming. Visit our SUPPORT FCA WY page to make a donation today!

Would you like to support FCA with a donation?

Rock Springs Task Force Team Helps with First WY Fields of Faith

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 20:56:18 GMT

Be a part of a Community Adult Leadership Team to minister to churches, community, campuses, and coaches.

Last updated August 5, 2020 .

Have you felt called to minster and serve to Athletes and Coaches in your schools, churches and communities?

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post:

Why We Need Task Force Teams
What a Task Force Looks Like
How to Start a Task Force Team

Why We Need Task Force Teams

FCA Volunteers play a vital role, through the ministry of FCA, in sharing the Gospel and transforming the lives of EVERY athlete and EVERY coach in Wyoming.

In short, FCA TF Teams consist of FCA Leaders and Volunteers committed to growing in their walk with Jesus and serving athletes and their coaches. And, that's AMAZING! They serve coaches and teammates in their school and in non-school organizations. They may be Huddle Coaches or help Huddle Coaches. They grow and pray together. They fellowship together, too!

In Wyoming, FCA TF Teams intentionally seek opportunities to impact their schools and non-school teams, other athletes, and school and non-school coaches. Can you imagine how this changes the sports culture in school and non-school sports organizations?

Just look at these numbers and you can see the incredible opportunity committed Christian Volunteers and FCA Leaders have to impact and influence campuses, sports, and communities in Wyoming:

34,000 Athletes & Coaches, 120 Campuses, 70 Towns

What a Task Force Team Looks Like

Do you have a member of a Task Force Team and are wondering if you are on track with funding Staff and helping with Huddles? Or are you a Volunteer ministering to Student Athletes, but have no official Task Force Team?

Just as Rock Springs Fields of Faith resulted from the support and effort of their Task Force Team of Volunteers, Task Force Teams impact and influence athletes and coaches around Wyoming! For example, Rock Springs Volunteers hosted a Follow Up Meeting after our Black Hills Camp for Campers, their family, and the overall community. They prayed for the upcoming school year, listened to testimonies, and planned for future Huddles.

Because of these volunteers' hearts, many athletes and coaches lives are being impacted and transformed in Rock Springs. We hope that this continues throughout our state. We would love for Task Force Teams in EVERY community to join forces with Staff and local Churches and for EVERY Coach and Athlete in Wyoming to experience Jesus in both their lives and Sport.

Keep reading below to find out what this community sports and adult ministry looks like...

FCA TF Teams Meet Regularly and Fellowships Together

Building a strong Task Force Team involves intentionally and consistently meeting together, focusing on the committee assignments, and preparing and planning for their ministry and outreach. However, this community sport team offers plenty of opportunities for Members to pray and worship together, fellowship and have some fun!

FCA TF Teams Serve Huddle Coaches and S.A.L.T.

FCA Huddle Leaders serve as certified FCA volunteers. To learn more about Huddle Leaders go HERE . For TF Teams, serving the Huddle Leader means engaging with them to find out their needs. Serving Huddle Leaders also means equipping them with connections and communication to People of Sport in churches and community.

By engaging with S.A.L.T., TF Teams can equip them and their Huddle Leaders to take the lead on events such as Field of Faith and empower them to serve Team Huddles and at Power Camps.

FCA TF Teams Serve Huddles

FCA Huddle means that a small group Bible study/devotion for coaches and athletes is certified and led by a FCA volunteer. While Huddle Leaders take the lead on Huddles, TF Teams also contribute to Team Huddle success!

TF Teams can minister to Team Huddles by providing a location to meet, providing meals and sharing Huddle meeting information, getting kids to camps, and promoting events like Fields of Faith.

FCA TF Teams Connect with the Church and Community

FCA Volunteers already have a heart for Jesus and sport. They want to help bridge the gap between Campuses and Communities and the Church.

TO READ MORE ABOUT FCA WY AND THE CHURCH, CLICK HERE .

FCA TF Teams Support Staff

FCA Local Staff depend on support from their areas. By starting and joining a TF Team, Members can use their funding committees to do fundraisers and direct donations to their local FCA Staff. If their area is without Staff, the financial support may be directed to funding future staffing.

In addition, TF Teams, specifically the Chair Person, meet with Staff to communicate area's needs and connect them to People of Sport in their area. Each TF Chair Person serves as a representative for their area on the State Leadership Board.

This provides an awesome opportunity for smaller communities to be represented on a state-wide level! Something to certainly consider when starting or joining a TF Team.

Now that you know more about our FCA WY Task Force Teams.... Would you like to join this adult ministry team?

Read below for next step.

How to Join or Start up a Task Force Team

If you feel led to join this adult ministry team, we would love to hear from you. First things first, you are welcome to meet with your local FCA Staff to get the run down on FCA WY. Click on the button below to get started!

There you have it - what to know about our FCA Wyoming Task Force Teams!

Thank you for reading!

FCA Wyoming

Will you pray for Wyoming FCA's Potential IMPACT and INFLUENCE?

34,000 Athletes & Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

Top 8 List for FCA Camp Black Hills: Let's Go 2019

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 18:40:54 GMT

2019 FCA Camp in Spearfish was awesome. Find out why!

For Camp 2021 info: VISIT HERE.

Last updated April 27, 2021.

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

In this post, we would like to share with you in this post the Top 8 List for FCA CAMP Black Hills: Let's GO 2019:

Are you ready?

8. Power Camp and Scooter Gang

During the Sports Coed Camp, Power Camp served as an opportunity to minister to the families and spouses of our Camp Staff and Camp Coaches.

What makes this such a great thing is this - not only are young student athletes developing their athletic and sports skills and learning about character and Jesus (like they do at Power Camps) -these kiddos ALSO get to interact with the rest of Camp, from eating meals together to attending evening Team Chapels with their families.

We especially appreciate the great examples Campers and Camp Huddle Leaders showed during camp, because those kiddos were watching!

Because scooters were the youngsters ride on Campus, they were dubbed the "Scooter Gang." We can all agree that we are excited to see what these young student athlete's FCA Camp stories will be when they are older Campers!

A special thanks to everyone involved overseeing the children's programs for Camp Coaches and their families, volunteering, caring for the infants and toddlers and those coaching these Power Camps. YOU are a BIG part of our FCA community at FCA Camp Black Hills!

7. Playing Tag. Literally.

This year we got serious with social media. And, it made camp's interactions and connection on another whole level. We pushed hard for tagging our official Camp hashtag #fcaletgoblackhills and Campers, Staff, Coaches, Volunteers did not disappoint!

In fact, we had so many photos and video shared with @FCAWYOMING, we could not fit it all in the evening Team Chapel slideshows.

But, the even better news?

We have more stories and faces to share POST CAMP to keep us all connected and ready to GO into the new sports seasons and school year!

We will be featuring your photos and video you shared with FCA Wyoming on our Camp Instagram. So be sure to subscribe to the blog for updates and notifications on upcoming articles featuring testimonies and stories from Camp!

Thank you, again, for all your awesome support!!

6. Dance and Sing off Competition

While we experienced some intense competition during Camp Sports sessions, evening Team Chapels proved to be the most competitive part of camp!

There were dance offs, sing offs and best of all chant competitions between the boys and girls. It is a great time to laugh and have some fun before getting serious with time for worship and Camp Chaplain.

A good reminder that the Christian Life involves fellowship and fun!

5. Huddling Up and Jumping into Leadership

At FCA Camp, Campers were united together in sport huddles with new teammates. Each Huddle was led by a college Christian athlete(s) who has a passion for Jesus, sports and being leaders. These groups ate meals and worshiped together. Also, they intensely competed and trained together during their time at Camp.

However, campers were not the only ones in huddles. Camp Huddle Leaders met before Camp for leadership training and fellowship that united them all. Likewise, coaches huddled up together to pray for sports sessions and each other and grow together in their faith during camp.

BTW - Thank you, Camp Huddle Leaders!

Along with huddle times, Campers participated in leadership training in the afternoons. This leadership training involved discussions about character, leadership roles, and infusing their faith into their sport. Campers certainly stepped up to the challenges! Also, thank you to the Camp Coaches and Staff who led these leadership training sessions!

4. Gut Check Time

This tradition is a brutal but necessary one. Campers, Staff, Volunteers and Coaches pushed themselves one final time at camp to complete gut check on the field. Already exhausted from training and competing at camp, campers and staff still accepted the challenge to finish strong. Even the Power Camp aka Scooter Gang gave it their all!

However, the best thing about Gut Check is this...

It reminds everyone at FCA Camp that we really CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS YOU, ME - US! (just as it says in Phil. 4:13)

3. Coaches and Competition

Fellowship of Christian Athletes believes that the most effective strategy to share the Gospel with coaches and athletes is "to and through the coach." This means we take seriously the call to meet Coaches wherever they are on their Journey with Jesus and help them grow in Christian character and values as coaches.

For that reason, we love to hear that FCA Camp also impacts our Camp Coaches lives and gives them an experience to grow in their love for Jesus and Sport!

AND...in case you did not notice - FCA SPORTS Camp is INTENSE!

At our Black Hills Sports Camp, we strive to provide safe, healthy environments, along with exceptional coaching and instruction to challenge student athletes in taking their game, their skills, their sports passion to the next level. We saw that at every sport activity session with Coaches, Assistants, Camp Huddle Leaders, and Campers this year.

If you would like to learn more about the amazing Coach's Ministry with FCA, go HERE .

One more thing...

A special thank you to the Trainers who helped keep our Campers healthy and safe! And of course, to all our excellent Camp Coaches!!

2. Chairs, Chocolate Milk and Jesus talks

Team evening Chapels provided Campers with Biblical perspectives and resources to overcome obstacles student athletes face in school and on the field as student athletes and leaders.

At our evening Team Chapels, we were blessed with Lindsey Waggoner (as the MC) and Reza Zadeh (Camp Chaplain) joining us this year, along with University of Wyoming FCA Director Aaron Frude (interviewed College student athletes live with Outside the Line).

We also would like to thank the band For Heaven's Sake that played every evening and WY FCA state director Jim Hamilton, his FCA WY Staff for running the slideshows and sound for evening Team Chapels, social media, video and photography (and registration!)

On Wednesday night, Zadeh presented Campers with the Gospel message and challenged them to accept God's call to be all in as student athletes in their walk with Jesus. And we were blown away by the response!

How To Share Camp Photos

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 20:54:53 GMT

Hello! Welcome to our Wyoming FCA Blog.

We hope that the stories and updates here give you insight into what God is doing in our area through our staff, coaches, athletes and volunteers and help connect our Fellowship of Christian Athletes community.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this quick post 5 easy ways for volunteers, coaches, staff, campers, and others in our FCA community to share your camp photos with FCA Wyoming:

Use our Hashtags
Post to Instagram
Share on Facebook
Upload to Dropbox
Email WY FCA

But first....

Check out the first Fellowship of Christian Athletes Camp photo from 1956. There is an amazing backstory on how FCA all began and the fact this photo even happened was totally the work of God.

Photo courtesy of FCA.org

What great motivation for us to continue their legacy and share the faces and stories of our FCA community!

Please note: there will be specific times phones and cameras are restricted during camp. We ask that you honor those times - and know that our camp Photographer and Videographer will be there to capture those moments when you need to be in that moment. :)

Disclaimer: We cannot control content posted from other's accounts and using hashtags. That means we cannot be liable for any inappropriate or abuse with content posted with hashtags and tagging our usernames. BUT...If you happen to see any inappropriate content or abuse of these hashtags, please report it to Instagram or FB. Notify us as well and we will report it, too. Thank you for your help with this.

Let's keep all things social media and FCA honoring to God!

Now for the 5 Easy Ways to Share Your FCA CAMP Photos

Let's Go !

1. Use Our Hashtags

This year, we are really putting our hashtags out there. It is a great way to organize and share what is happening at camp! We took the official FCA camp hashtag #FCALETSGO and customized specifically for our Sports Camp.

#FCALETSGOBLACKHILLS

You are welcome to use it with your Facebook posts, Tweets and Instagram stories and posts if it involves a FCA camp experience with our Northern Black Hills Camp June 25th-30th.

Feel free to also use these other hashtags as well:

#FCAWYOMING

#FCACAMPBLACKHILLS

#FCALETSGO

2. Post to Instagram

Also, we hope to use all the photos from the hashtag gallery and create a slideshow for campers using THEIR photos to tell their camp story before our awesome time at the evening TEAM Chapel. We cannot think of a better way to unite campers before worship and chapel.

@FCAWYOMING

@FCACAMPBLACKHILLS

Check out this infographic for the breakdown on building up our hashtag gallery!

3. Share on Facebook

When you post your photos to Facebook, remember to tag us with our username @fcawyo ming @fcacampblackhills and hashtag #FCALETSGOBLACKHILLS. This will create a hashtag gallery on Facebook and post to our timeline. Our FCA Community continues to grow on FB, so this serves as an excellent way to stay connected during and after camp with photos.

For FCA communities on volunteer pages, posting photos with hashtags will also help. In return, we can share photos on our official page timeline!

4. Upload to Dropbox

If you are a volunteer or staff at FCA camp, uploading to Drop box and sharing a folder with WY FCA communications certainly works for more and larger files. You are welcome to send shared folders to llawson@fca.org.

I (Lindsey Lawson) oversee content and communications with WY FCA and would be happy to receive photos from camp that I can edit and watermark to share officially on our social media (with photo credit to you). Please include a message with a description of your role at camp so I can identify you.

5. Email Photos to WY FCA or use WE.TRANSFER.com

Even after camp, we would love to receive your photos! If you did not have the chance to share during our amazing but super busy time at camp, email always works as an option other than Dropbox. Email Lindsey at llawson@fca.org your photos as attachments. No more than 1-3 please at a time!

There you have it! We hope that one of these ways helps you share your FCA Camp story this year. We value everyone's experience and want to see what God is doing in YOUR life at Camp.

Thank you for all your support and prayer during our Summer Sports Camp.

Want to learn more about our Black Hills Sports Camp in Spearfish?

Check out these articles.

Get Ready For Reza Zadeh as FCA Camp Chaplain 2019 BHSU

FCA Camp in Spearfish Needs Prayers: Who will be praying the 30 Day Countdown and 24/7 Prayer Coverage?

Top 10 Things About Northern Black Hills FCA Sports Camp 2019: Let's Go! (5 min. read)

Thank you for reading!

What to do next...

Subscribe to Blog
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Check out our Resources
Follow us on Social Media
Donate

Will you pray for Wyoming FCA's Potential IMPACT and INFLUENCE:

34,000 Athletes & Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

Get Ready for Reza Zadeh as Camp Chaplain BHSU 2019

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 17:47:57 GMT

Hello! Welcome to our FCA WY Blog.

That’s why…

We would like to share with you in this post with you in this post why we are excited and blessed to have Denver Broncos Team Chaplain, Reza Zadeh as FCA Camp Chaplain at our Spearfish Sports Camp this year (2019):

Backstory on Reza Zadeh
Ministering to College and Pro Athletes
Lined up for FCA Camp Chaplain

Read on to learn more about Reza Zadeh...

Backstory on Reza Zadeh

Born in Iran in 1977, Reza Zadeh and his family came to the United States when he was three years old (Romono, 2018). Into his teens and college years, Zadeh played football, eventually becoming linebacker for CSU Rams in 1997-99 (Gill, 2019).

While in college, Zadeh committed his life to Jesus through Athletes in Action. Then, in 2014, Zadeh and his wife became staff for Athletes in Action, the very ministry that had impacted him years earlier (Gill, 2019).

Since then, Team Zadeh continues to expand their ministry missions and outreaches with several foundations and charitable projects, including partnering up with FCA in Windsor Highschools.

To hear more about his testimony, check out the Sport Spectrum Podcast with Zadeh talking about his faith, his family coming to the U.S., his passion for pro and college sports ministries and more...

Ministering to College and Pro Athletes

Today, Reza serves as the Front Range Director for Athletes in Action and as the Chaplain for Denver Broncos. As Denver Broncos Chaplain, he provides a Bible study for coaches and players, along with his wife Allyson who ministers to their wives (Gill, 2019).

Click HERE to read more about Zadeh and AIA's mission to "utilize the platform of sports to Create Spiritual Movements Everywhere."

"Be praying for our work with these great men and women. They have such incredible opportunities to influence others and we want to be a resource for them and the organization.

My hope is that Allyson and I can come alongside these athletes (and wives) who have an incredible platform in our culture and help them see their athletic platform as an opportunity to live for eternal things."

- Reza Zadeh

www.teamzadeh.com @ZadehReza

Lined up for FCA Camp Chaplain

As you can see, there are a lot of reasons why we are looking forward to Zadeh as our FCA Camp Chaplain this summer in Spearfish!

Even more than that, we feel blessed to continue partnering up with Zadeh as the Athletes in Action Front Range Director. In case you missed it, Next Level Retreat 2019 was a great event that ministered to over a hundred college athletes, from Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Athletes in Action.

Located in Estes Park, this annual winter retreat brings together Wyoming and Colorado college athletes (mostly who are rivals!) to worship and grow in the relationship with Jesus.

Just check out what Aaron Frude, UW FCA Director, shared on Facebook about the significance of the retreat:

Also, make sure to watch this great video from @FCACOLORADO:

Do you want to learn more about Reza Zadeh's mission with Athletes in Action to create spiritual movements within college and pro athletes sports cultures?

Check out these articles.

Featured Article on The Increase "Blessed" by Reza Zadeh

Athletes in Action: "See the NFL Draft Through New Eyes" by Reza Zadeh

Sports Spectrum, The Increase: "The Power of Our Words" by Reza Zadeh

There you have it.

We are excited to have Reza Zadeh, with his heart and sports experience, as our Camp Chaplain this summer. We hope you are excited, too!

Make sure to visit our CAMP page and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated with BHSU FCA camp!

Thank you for reading!

Blessings,

-FCA WY

References for this post:

Gill, Ann. (March 2019 ). From CSU to Ministry, from https://alumline.source.colostate.edu/from-csRu-to-the-ministry/

Romono, Jason. (Nov 2018). New Podcast: Reza Zadeh, Denver Bronocs Team Chaplain, from https://sportsspectrum.com/podcast/2018/11/20/new-podcast-reza-zadeh-denver-broncos-team-chaplain-part-1/

http://www.teamzadeh.com/

Will you pray for Wyoming FCA's Potential

IMPACT and INFLUENCE?

34,000 Athletes & Coaches

120 Campuses

70 Towns

E3 in Action

Allyson Fertig, MVP On and Off the Court

Allyson Fertig, MVP On and Off the Court

Homecoming in 2023! New announcement for FCA WYO Sports Camps

Every Athlete and Coach: Year 2022

Game Day Going Strong: Look back and fast forward with this State event!

Read about FCA WYO Game Day past, present and future in 2022!

Fields of Faith is Growing in WYO!

It's that time of year again! Fields of Faith is happening all around the nation and all around our square state, too. Here are the Fields of Faith events in Wyoming: Rocksprings, Moorcroft and Sheridan

Why Fields of Faith?

You Can Help Change Our Culture.

The First Fields of Faith by FCA WY

Follow up on FOF 2020 by FCA WY Media

Edition 6 Stories: E3 in Action

E3 in Action: Camp 2022 special edition

ALREADY APPROVED

April and May Stories: E3 in Action

March Stories: E3 in Action

February FCA Stories: E3 in action

January Stories: E3 in Action

Champions in Christ: Highlights from Cheyenne Night of Champions

2021 Night of Champions in Cheyenne was an incredible time to encourage and challenge Community to be Champions in Christ.

Keynote Speaker: LEAH O’BRIEN-AMICO

USA SOFTBALL OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST 1996, 2000, 2004

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

FEATURED IN

Kick Offs for FCA - Get Your Team Together!

Get the your FCA Team together for Huddle Ministry Start ups and Events with the new school year and sports seasons!

Closing out July with PURSUE TEAM Highlights.

Read all about our Sports Ministry happenings in July as we Pursue TEAM with lots of Power Camps, Volunteers and lots of fun.

Watch Our Latest and Newest Black Hills Sports Camp Video!

Check out the newest and latest video from our Sports Camp 2021!

Time for Exams of the Heart in May

This May, with end of sports seasons for some and final exams for schools year, it is the right time to EXAMINE the HEART.

"Understanding our place on God’s team allows us to redirect our efforts to encourage and help others."

April is all About Life - Pursue Life!

The Pursue Theme for 2021 continues into getting ready for Camp. This April, we pursue Life. And we can't think of a better time than celebrating the Resurrection and Eternal Life of Jesus and focusing on the Life giving experience at FCA Camp.

BE HONEST: OPEN YOUR HEART

Total Victory: Finding Freedom at the Cross

Your Camp Guide to Everything FCA CAMP 2021

We are excited to announce that our BHSU Sports Camp is on for June 2021! If you are new to FCA Camp or it's been awhile, check out our information and resources below to get you (or your camper) ready for FCA CAMP!

Easter 2021 Reflections and Resources

As we enter into Easter weekend, starting with Good Friday - here is a read from FCA Daily Impact Play to remind us of Life from Jesus' Resurrection Power.

March: Reach for Truth and Accountability

You Pursue Truth with Reach for the Truth together. This March, we focus on iron sharpening iron in the life of an Athlete and Coach.

This February: Do you Pray the Truth?

You Pursue Truth with Pray the Truth. This February we focus on the power of prayer in the life of an Athlete and Coach.

Read This: Still Pursing the Dream

Start with READ the TRUTH this January.

Now that you know FCA's 2021 theme, let's take a look at how to start to Pursue - Truth, Life, Team and Mission.

FCA 2021 Theme Has Been Announced and We are Gonna Pursue it!

In 2020, we accepted the Camp challenge to go with 100% Theme with SACRIFICE, SURRENDER, SERVE and Surround. What is the FCA Theme for 2021? Keep reading to find out.

The FCA 2021 Theme is...

Meet Eastern Director Karsten Sween

FCA WY is excited to officially introduce Karsten Sween as the new Eastern Director for FCA Wyoming.

IMPACT ON THE CALL TO SERVE

WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW

WHAT TO PRAY FOR AND HOW TO HELP

Where Is Your Identity? Guest Writer Sydney Gunn Shares

While we start to Pursue Truth in our Lives and Sports this season, our Staff Sydney Gunn shares how she has found her Identity in Jesus. Read more to hear her heart!

Look back on 2020 and Listen to Their Stories

Sometimes to get to the EVERY it starts with the ONE. What does this mean? Read about 2020 and the YEAR FCA WY learned...

Looking Back and Moving Forward...God is with us.

– 2 Corinthians 9:15

﻿ Game Day Follow up!

UWYO/Laramie FCA 2020 Highlights

UWY O/Laramie FCA 2020 Highlights

by FCA WY Medi a and Stacy Frude

Five Giving Strategies for FCA WY

It's that time of year! End of year Giving, gifts of charity, and Hashtag Giving. But do you know what donating to FCA WY looks like or how it works? We'll break it down for you down below.

Five Giving Strategies for FCA WY

by FCA WY Media

Check out MYFCA

Join the Home Team

Other Ways to Give ﻿

Legacy Giving

GAME DAY 2020: Announcement and Important Info

Game Day 2020 Announcement and Important Info!

by FCA WY Media

2019 Game Day in Laramie Highlights!

The First Fields of Faith
by FCA WY

Follow up on FOF 2020
by FCA WY Media

Game Day Follow up!

Other Ways to Give

Follow up on FOF 2020
by FCA WY Media

Recap on Last Year's Event
Nationwide Fields of Faith 2019: 503 Fields – 192,000+ People

Fellowship and Fish on the River

2. Upload completed notes for credit.

Check it out below.

Woodlawn (PG)

One of the best Faith Based Football Movies and Message about Team Unity

MacFarland, USA (PG)

Uplifting, Entertaining and Focus on Character Strengths

The Miracle Season (PG)

Great Volleyball Scenes and Story about Loss and Preserverance

Overcomer (PG)
Inspiring and Popular Faith Based Movie