Jocks. Star athletes. Call them what you want, but they’re usually known around your high school or college. Sometimes these students seem to be on the top of the high school food chain, which makes them seem unapproachable. But they have their ups and downs just like the rest of us.
“Strike three, you’re out,” yells the umpire as the softball player slowly walks away with her head down.
“That was a terrible play!” cries a fan as the football player misses the potential game-winning field goal.
“Eeeehhhh,” the horn rings before the basketball player could throw the last shot, and her team loses the game.
Athletes often turn to many different things when sports don’t go their way. Some resort to improper relationships, seek escape at parties or hide behind academics. Many are driven to work harder at their sport. The best solution they could turn to would be a personal relationship with Jesus. Here are some ideas of getting into the life of an athlete and creating an opportunity for a faith conversation.
1. Ask questions. An athlete would love to answer a question like “So how does your team look this year?” or “How do you feel about your next opponent?”
2. Listen. When she’s answering your questions, give her your full attention. She will be excited that you want to hear about her passion.
3. Show up. Attending her event will express an even deeper interest for not only her but this sport. Cheer her on and ask questions about things in the game or match you didn’t understand.
4. Go beyond. Once she knows you care about her passion, she will trust you with other issues in her life. Open up the conversation to more than sports when you get the opportunity.
5. Share Christ. Athletes face failure a lot. They search high and low for anything to help their performance. Offer to pray with and for your athletic friend before each game. As she sees you relying on Christ for strength, she may be curious and desire that for herself.
Take time to go that extra mile for an athlete on your campus. It may amount to more than a new friendship; it could be the next link in reaching more students for Christ.
