The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is a ministry of Christian athletes throughout the United States. There are dozens of different schools that have FCA in Northeast Ohio. Recently, students have started one at GlenOak.
Juniors Anna Senften and Lila Smith started an FCA chapter because they felt school was a great place to share about God and also to reach high schoolers with different backgrounds.
“We were inspired by Anna’s two cousins who run another FCA at Tuslaw and took inspiration from their ideas, meetings and activities. The meetings are around 30 minutes long, and over 20 people show up,” Smith said.
Smith further explained that this is a program that connects sports and religion. It helps lead athletes and coaches to have a relationship with Jesus Christ.
“You have to spend seven hours every day with the same people, so why not deepen your relationships with them and talk to them about Jesus,” Senften said.
Junior Ian Sonogan is one of the many club members in the FCA.
“I started coming to the program because I like being around other believers, hanging out, and listening to people preach. I believe if you’re interested and an athlete, you should come to the FCA,” Sonogan said.
Participants gain Biblical principles that they can use in their daily lives. Senften and Smith also hope to build athletes who lead with faith, integrity and purpose.
On Wednesday mornings, students will typically arrive at 6:45 a.m. talk, eat and have fellowship with others. Then they do a game or activity. These games include Mafia, head shoulders, knees up, and more. Then, they read the scripture for that day and start the devotional (connecting with God), and lastly wrapping up with prayer and announcements.
The club is advised by teacher Andrew Willett in room D210. Students attending meetings must be promptly here at 6:45 a.m. to be let in the school.
While all meetings are before school, the FCA Association leads activities for the region and those in sports do not have to be in season to join. During meetings leaders serve donuts. If you’re interested in going, you will reach out to Willett, Seften, Smith, or their instagram @glenoakfca.
