Chad was the consummate team player, working harder than everyone else. He was humble and unselfish, and never once did I hear him talk trash to an opponent. I knew there was something different about Chad, but I couldn’t quite figure out what it was.

At age 16 I began to search for the purpose of my existence. Sports were gratifying, but I knew they wouldn’t last forever. Around this time, I learned that the difference between Chad and me was that he had a personal relationship with Jesus that influenced his life on and off the field.

Through the connection I had with Chad as a competitor and teammate, his life had a huge influence on my decision to give my life to Christ. Without the bond we had through sports, Chad would not have influenced my life the way he did. The celebration of victories, disappointment of tough losses, sweat, and sacrifices helped us develop a strong relationship and opened my heart to see and hear the message of Christ.

As a Christian competitor, I encourage athletes to view their teams as mission fields. Jesus is calling us to be His ambassadors and help reconcile our teammates to God.