FSI: Faith & Sports Institute   

Developed by a team of experts with experience in theology, spiritual direction, virtue ethics, psychology, counseling, and sports ministry, this course introduces students to the ancient and modern practice of spiritual formation in and through the experience of sports.

Course outcomes include:

• Engage with a practical theology of spiritual formation
• Understand the place of spiritual disciplines within the Christian tradition
• Analyze the culture of sports and its impact on spiritual formation and Christian worship
• Examine how others have connected spiritual formation to athletics 
• Identify and practice disciplines for spiritual growth within sports
• Reflect on and experience the importance of the Christian community for spiritual formation

Developed by former athletes who are experts in practical theology, sports ministry, biblical studies, and history, this class will help Christians understand and relate to sports in a deeper way. 

Course outcomes include: 

• Understand how to see and experience sports through God’s story 
• Apply theological concepts to the people and culture of sports 
• Explore the ways sports culture shapes motivations, values, and practices 
• Practice self-reflection for spiritual growth and leadership 
• Examine current issues and trends in sports through a Christian lens 
• Develop a contextually relevant theological model for engaging in sports 

Developed by a team of experts with experience in theology, history, chaplaincy, counseling, and sports ministry, this course introduces students to the role of a chaplain in sports, the practice of holistic spiritual care, and ways chaplains can engage with the people and culture of sports. This course is intended for those interested in sports chaplaincy and those already serving within the field.

Course Outcomes Include:

• Examine the history and current landscape of sports chaplaincy
• Articulate a working theology of sports chaplaincy
• Develop an awareness of cultural context, including pluralism and diversity in sports
• Explore the practical skills and competencies of effective sports chaplaincy
• Identify and understand standards of care, ethics, and accountability
• Learn different approaches to sports chaplaincy from experienced practitioner

Developed by a team of experts with experience in coaching, theology, virtue ethics, organizational planning, counseling, and philosophy, this class will provide a holistic model for Christian leadership in sports.

Course Outcomes Include:

• Develop a personal mission statement and leadership philosophy
• Cultivate self-leadership by understanding and applying your values
• Influence others toward character and community formation
• Integrate Christian faith and virtues into competition
• Learn organizational planning and management principles for building your team
• Design and implement your own strategic plan in your sporting context

The course is eight weeks in length and delivered online through Canvas Catalog. As a non-credit course, there are no academic prerequisites to enroll. Each week will include specially designed and selected readings and learning engagement activities. You will receive constructive and meaningful feedback from the instructor and opportunities to interact with your peers. 

 

 

This course is centered on Brian Smith’s book The Christian Athlete. It will provide students with additional readings, video content, and activities intended to help Christian athletes and those who lead them engage in a deep way with the questions, concerns, and issues addressed in The Christian Athlete. 

Course outcomes include:

• Enter into an ongoing conversation about what it means to be a Christian athlete
• Understand and reflect on key questions and concerns facing Christian athletes within their sports contexts
• Align sports participation for self and others with an understanding of who God is and our place in the biblical narrative
• Learn practical steps for spiritual growth and discernment within real-world situations in sports and life
• Participate in and help to cultivate safe spaces for questions, conversation, and dialogue related to sports and the Christian faith

The course is eight weeks long and delivered online through Canvas Catalog. As a non-credit course, there are no academic prerequisites to enroll. However, you must purchase Brian Smith’s book The Christian Athlete. Each week will include selected readings and learning engagement activities. You will receive constructive and meaningful feedback from the instructor and opportunities to interact with your peers.

Developed by a team of experts with experience in theology, history, youth and family ministry, coaching, and sports ministry, this course examines the culture of youth sports from a Christian perspective. Students will consider the present landscape of youth sports, identify best practices, and develop a strategy for Christians to engage redemptively in their youth sports context. 

Learning outcomes: 

• Evaluate and reflect on the cultural landscape of youth sports. 

• Examine challenges and opportunities for Christian formation through youth sports. 

• Consider the relationship between youth sports and the church. 

• Identify and explore critical issues in youth sports. 

• Identify and explore principles and practices for healthy sports engagement. 

• Develop an action plan for youth sports in your context.