Whether you’re just starting college or heading into your final season, keeping your faith as a student-athlete can feel like a challenge. The good news? It doesn’t have to be. These 3 simple “Must-Do’s” can help you stay grounded in your walk with Christ while competing at a high level.
Faith As A Student Athlete
Before we jump in, I want to say how awesome it is that you’re here. The fact that you’re even thinking about your faith as a student athlete says a lot. You’re not just going through the motions—you care. And that matters.
Let’s be honest: most locker rooms aren’t the most faith-filled spaces. Even at Christian or Catholic schools, intentional spiritual support for athletes is often missing. Sports culture can sometimes pull you in the opposite direction of your values.
But you love your sport (so do we!!). And you shouldn’t have to choose between your passion and your faith. These 3 “Must-Do’s” are here to help you stay grounded in both:
1 – You Must Set Up Your Environment
This first “Must Do” is important and I would argue essential. Setting up your environment for success is a simple yet big way to stay grounded. Little things like intentionally listening to Christian Music, writing scripture on your wrist wraps, shoes, or gloves; having your bible next to your bed to read each morning or night; making your phone background something to keep you grounded; and hanging up a bible verse in your locker for you to read before practice or games, are all setting your environment and yourself up for success.
Here’s one scripture to help:
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
2 – You Must Keep Perspective
I’m going to be honest here: you will struggle at some point and it will be hard to keep perspective. There may be moments of loneliness, isolation, or temptation to turn to the world. There may even be times when you want to hide your faith or give up on it. Don’t. You can do this!
Your life is going to be so much more than your years as a student athlete – keep that perspective. Yes, this time matters, but staying grounded in who you are in Christ will help you to thrive on and off the field/court. Not only that, but you’re setting the example for the people around you for what persevering in faith looks like.
When times get tough, when you’re wrestling with what to do, what you’re tempted to turn away from God, remember this:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
3 – You Must Have Community
Intentionally find people (whether on your team, in class, or in a different group on campus) that have similar values as you. Consider joining a local campus ministry group or even finding a mentor that is also a Christian. Community can help fuel you and keep you on track when there is temptation.
Not only that, but there is a level of accountability that will come into your life as a bi-product of having community. It sets the standards high, yet gives you a place to go in times of need, failure, or struggle. Don’t isolate yourself away from community, but instead, make it a priority to have throughout your tenure in college.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: if either of them falls down, one can help the other up, but pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 (NIV)
Keep Persevering
There will be a moment when you look back at your career as a student athlete, you’ll be able to remember some of the highlights and the trials. Persevering with these tips will empower you so that you know this verse in the depths of your soul:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7
–
Ready to max out your life’s potential?
The Hope Hub shares weekly insights that help go-getters become high performers: 📩 [Subscribe to our newsletter].
Author:
Faith-driven Fiery Beacon of Hope
