Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is a global organization that unites middle school through college students, athletes, and faith to impact the world for Jesus Christ. It aims to build leaders who influence their community and teams to grow closer to Christ. Along with all the other clubs offered at Carolina Forest High School (CFHS), FCA could be a great choice for students.
According to fca.org, “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.”
The CFHS sponsors are Brody Hillman, David Lovette, and Ann Twigg. Every week, over 100 members gather in the mini-gym. Pastor Matthew Smith is the church sponsor. He joined Myrtle Beach Christian Church in the summer of 2022 for a focus on youth ministry and college and career members. Smith has his masters of divinity from Denver Seminary.
“I believe FCA is important in schools because it creates a safe and intentional space for students to live out their faith openly and authentically. Schools are one of the primary mission fields of our culture, and FCA gives students the opportunity to be encouraged, challenged, and reminded that they are not alone in following Christ. What I love most about FCA is getting to walk alongside students as they grow-not just as athletes or leaders, but as followers of Jesus,” explained Smith.
During meetings, students get a better understanding of God and who He is, play games, and connect with friends and other people in FCA. The students listen to music and play various group games before settling in to listen to a guest speaker each week.
Lawrence Grant, a senior at CFHS and a huddle leader for FCA, explained what made him want to be a part of FCA.
“I joined FCA to be a part of a growing, impactful community and to strengthen my faith in God.”
FCA helps out the Carolina Forest community in many ways. Just recently, they collaborated with the CFHS Student Council for a coat drive. In years past, they created boxes through Samaritan’s Purse that had toys, necessities, and gifts for people in need. They also fundraise for gently used athletic shoes for Samaritan’s Feet, founded by Emmanuel “Manny” Ohonme, a former college basketball player.
Every year, they participate in Fields of Faith. This is where students in the club and from other schools come together and challenge each other to read the Bible daily and grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. During the event, they worship and share testimonies.
Jordan Malion, a senior at CFHS and a FCA huddle leader, loves this organization because of the messages.
“I love seeing kids my age receive the wonderful news of Jesus. As an FCA leader, our faith is extremely important to us. It is so special to see kids starting their faith, continuing their faith, and growing it,” shared Malion.
FCA would be a great choice for students who want to bring God into their school day. There is such a strong community and personal spiritual growth that students experience, making their school year memorable.
