The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is a global organization dedicated to empowering athletes, coaches, and all whom they influence to live in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ. At the heart of this mission are four core values that guide every action, interaction, and decision within the organization: Integrity, Serving, Teamwork, and Excellence. These values not only shape the character and conduct of those involved with FCA but also define the essence of what it means to be a Christ-centered leader in the world of sports. Below, we explore each of these values in depth, highlighting their significance and how they manifest in the daily operations and relationships fostered by FCA.

Integrity: The Cornerstone of Christian Leadership

Integrity stands as the bedrock of the FCA’s values, representing a commitment to truth, transparency, and moral uprightness in all actions. At its core, integrity in the FCA context is about living a life that aligns with the teachings of Jesus Christ—both in public and in private.

For FCA members, integrity means:

• Adherence to Biblical Truths: Every decision, conversation, and action is guided by the principles laid out in the Bible. This unwavering commitment ensures that FCA’s mission remains Christ-centered and morally sound.
• Consistency in Actions and Words: Integrity requires that there be no discrepancy between what is preached and what is practiced. Whether on the field, in a meeting, or in personal life, FCA members are expected to embody the virtues they advocate.
• Building Trust: In any organization, trust is essential. Through consistent integrity, FCA builds and maintains trust among its members, partners, and the communities it serves. This trust is crucial for fostering meaningful relationships that endure challenges and grow over time.

Integrity, as upheld by the FCA, is not just about avoiding dishonesty or wrongdoing; it is about proactively choosing the path of righteousness in every circumstance, thereby setting a powerful example for others to follow.

Serving: A Reflection of Christ’s Love

Serving others is a fundamental aspect of Christian life, and within the FCA, it is seen as a direct expression of Christ’s love for humanity. This value emphasizes the importance of humility, selflessness, and a commitment to the well-being of others.

In practice, serving within the FCA includes:

• Empowering Athletes and Coaches: FCA prioritizes the spiritual, emotional, and physical growth of its members. By providing resources, guidance, and support, the organization ensures that athletes and coaches can thrive both on and off the field.
• Community Engagement: Serving extends beyond the immediate FCA family to the broader community. FCA members are encouraged to participate in outreach programs, volunteer work, and other initiatives that uplift and support those in need.
• Mentorship: One of the most impactful ways to serve is through mentorship. FCA leaders take an active role in guiding younger athletes and coaches, helping them navigate the challenges of sports and life with a Christ-centered perspective.

Through serving, the FCA fosters a culture of compassion and kindness, where the needs of others are prioritized, and where each member is inspired to act as the hands and feet of Jesus in their community.

Teamwork: Unity in Purpose

Teamwork is a vital component of any successful sports endeavor, and within the FCA, it represents much more than just collaboration on the field. It is about unity in purpose, working together towards a common goal, and supporting one another in the pursuit of excellence.

The value of teamwork in FCA is exemplified by:

• Shared Vision: Every member of FCA, from the top leadership to the newest recruit, is united by a shared vision of glorifying God through sports. This common purpose drives teamwork and ensures that all efforts are aligned with the organization’s mission.
• Mutual Support: In the FCA, teamwork is not just about working together but also about lifting each other up. Whether facing personal challenges or professional setbacks, FCA members rely on one another for encouragement, guidance, and prayer.
• Celebrating Diversity: FCA embraces the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and talents of its members. By valuing each individual’s unique contributions, the organization creates a rich tapestry of perspectives that enhance its collective strength.

Teamwork within FCA goes beyond mere cooperation; it is about forging deep connections rooted in faith, where every member contributes to and benefits from the collective success of the group.

Excellence: Striving for the Highest Standards

Excellence in the FCA is not about perfection, but about striving to reach the highest standards in all areas of life. It is a commitment to doing one’s best, reflecting the glory of God through every action, and continuously seeking improvement.

Excellence in the FCA context involves:

• Pursuing Personal and Professional Growth: FCA members are encouraged to constantly seek ways to improve themselves, whether through spiritual development, education, or skill enhancement. This commitment to growth ensures that they are always moving closer to their full potential in Christ.
• Setting High Standards: In sports, as in life, the pursuit of excellence requires setting ambitious goals and working diligently to achieve them. FCA promotes a culture where high standards are the norm, and where mediocrity is not accepted.
• Reflecting God’s Glory: Ultimately, the pursuit of excellence is about honoring God. By giving their best in every endeavor, FCA members seek to reflect the glory of God, showing the world what is possible when one is dedicated to living a Christ-centered life.

Excellence in the FCA is not confined to the athletic field; it permeates every aspect of life, encouraging members to glorify God through their words, actions, and achievements.

Living Out the Core Values of the FCA

The core values of Integrity, Serving, Teamwork, and Excellence are not merely ideals to aspire to—they are the foundation upon which the FCA operates. These values are interwoven into every program, relationship, and initiative, ensuring that the organization remains steadfast in its mission to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

By embodying these values, FCA members not only enhance their own lives but also serve as beacons of Christ’s love and truth in their communities. They inspire others to pursue a life of purpose, guided by the teachings of Jesus, and committed to making a positive impact on the world.

As we continue to uphold these values, we invite others to join us in this journey of faith, growth, and transformation. Together, through Integrity, Serving, Teamwork, and Excellence, we can make a lasting difference in the world, one life at a time.