What Do You Do When Sports Are Over?

The last game has been played; last whistle blown. After the last spotlight fades out, your jersey starts collecting dust, and you hang up your sneakers for the last time. What now? Sports has been a huge part of life; there’s no way we can just let it go.

If we’ve staked our entire identity and focus on athletics, the end of the sports road is going to leave us crippled and confused, unsure where our new place in life lies. But, if we’ve placed our hope and identity in God and who we are as His son or daughter, the next season of life is just that: the next season.

If you have a desire to stay involved in sports, there is a reason for this. God plants desires and needs in us so we can join Him in where He’s at work in the world. God isn’t done with you and your love of sports. Could it be He’s even created you with this passion for a purpose you could never imagine?

There are ways God can use that passion for His Kingdom. And He may just be leading you onward; lean in and listen to those stirrings, get in His Word, seek wise counsel and ask God to reveal your next step of obedience.

“I will instruct you and show you the way to go;
with my eye on you, I will give counsel.” –Psalm 32:8

You were made with the knowledge you have for statistics and play calling. Or the way you can score a goal. And, especially, the heart in you that’s turned towards others as you want to encourage those around you with the Gospel.

God has an even greater purpose for you. It wasn’t just about how you could play or coach, but who you could influence for His Kingdom, who you can invest your time and effort into, who you can disciple.

Even now, as you wonder what to do next, God is at work. Listen for His voice leading you forward. Could it be any of the following? 

Become a Coach

“For the training of the body has limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” –1 Timothy 4:8

A coach has influence many only dream about. You have the opportunity to invest in the next generation, not only to teach them how to hone their skills, but to step in with the unconditional love of God and point them to a greater purpose outside the game. FCA walks alongside coaches every step of the way, from Coaches Huddles for spiritual growth and like-minded community to resources like E3 Discipleship that seeks to engage, equip and empower you to go and do the same for others.

Volunteer with FCA

“Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God.” –1 Peter 4:10

Did FCA impact you as a student-athlete? Did your marriage strengthen at a Coaches TimeOut and you now want to provide that opportunity for other coaches? Serve with significance as an FCA volunteer. Become a Character Coach for your local club team, oversee your county’s ministry as a Board Member or sign up to coach at a summer sports camp, among other opportunities that fit your interests. 

Join FCA Staff

“Commit your activities to the Lord,
and your plans will be established.” –Proverbs 16:3

You can even live out your calling with a career with FCA. There are open positions across the U.S. and around the globe as FCA lives its vision to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes. God’s world is diverse, and so are the people needed to reach every coach and athlete in every sport. Consider joining Team FCA and find the right fit for you.

Get excited—God’s doing something wonderful! He’s taken you on a journey from feeling overwhelmed by the chaos and pressure of life, to a life overflowing with His love. You’re ready for the next step: to get out and get the Good News of Jesus Christ to a generation of coaches and athletes who desperately need His hope.

It’s time for the next step. Where might God be leading you?

LIVE IT OUT

Theme Verse: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” - Romans 15:13

Quarter Verse: “And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone, just as we do for you.” –1 Thessalonians 3:12

Question: How has God been preparing you for your next season? What do you feel He may be leading you toward?

Challenge: Head to FCA.org and read up on the ways to get involved and see if one specific role stands out.

CTA: Where might God be leading you? Get Involved  

*If you read this article and aren’t in relationship with Christ yet but would like to know more, we invite you to go through FCA’s The FOUR that explains how an everlasting and fulfilling life with God is possible.