Uncommon Sports Group seeks to connect, encourage, and equip Christians working throughout the college and professional sport industry. A large part of how USG seeks to accomplish this mission is by funding its members to attend international mission trips that help equip them to live missional lives through their careers in sports. On June 4, USG traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, with a group of 16 members and 4 staff for a two-week trip. While in Kenya, USG served alongside local ministry partners in various ways and experienced the local culture and scenery. If you want to learn more about the trip to Kenya, you can read a detailed summary here. Preston Fore is a part of the USG community and has completed our Academy program, attended an Impact Weekend, is involved in our Community Bible Studies, and has attended multiple Christians Working in Sport Conferences. Preston attends Missouri Baptist University, works as the Football Team Manager, and is Responsible for Equipment and operations. Below is a testimony from Preston about his experience in Kenya and the impact it had on him. "Looking back over the past two to three years, if you had told me that I would be traveling to Nairobi, Kenya on a mission trip with USG, I never would have believed you. But during that time, I kept feeling the Lord calling me to step out of my comfort zone and trust Him completely. When I heard about this trip, I knew it was the opportunity He had been preparing me for. When I found out I was going, I expected to serve others, but I never imagined how much God would use this trip to change me. One of the first things that stood out was our team. Within the first few minutes of meeting everyone, it already felt like we were family. Through deep conversations and sharing our testimonies, I realized that so many of our struggles were similar. God used this group to remind me that I was never alone and surrounded me with brothers and sisters in Christ who continually pointed me back to Him. Serving at the school in Huduma during sports camp was another life-changing experience. The joy those kids had, despite having so much less than many of us, humbled me. I thought I was going there to encourage them, but the Lord used them to teach me about joy, gratitude, and trusting Him. Going out for evangelism also impacted me deeply. Hearing people’s stories, praying with them, and listening as they cried out to the Lord softened my heart. It reminded me that no matter where we come from, we all have the same greatest need: a relationship with Jesus. Serving as a table leader during the coaches camp was another highlight. Listening to the coaches share their struggles and then seeking the Lord together in prayer reminded me that true peace is only found in Christ, no matter what season of life we’re in. As I reflect on everything the Lord did during this trip, I’m overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. The biggest lesson I brought home is to let the Lord take the wheel, trust His plan, and remain open to wherever He leads. One moment that has stayed with me happened after we did evangelism in the town. As our team shared what God had done that day, Geoff Green talked about an interaction he had where the person described his situation as “beautiful” because the Lord was in control, He was providing, and there was joy in trusting Him. That simple statement completely changed my perspective. Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful when Christ is in control; there is peace, purpose, and joy. This trip wasn’t just about serving in Kenya. It was about allowing God to transform my own heart. My prayer moving forward is that I will continue stepping out in faith, trusting Him completely, and seeking Him in everything I do." - Preston Fore Seeing the impact that the Lord brought about from this trip, both in Elizabeth's life and in the individuals we served in Kenya, has been such an encouragement! We are grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the Lord in Kenya with this group of Christ-centered leaders of the sport industry. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a part of USG's growing community of Christian sport industry professionals, click here!

Uncommon Sports Group seeks to connect, encourage, and equip Christians working throughout the college and professional sport industry. A large part of how USG seeks to accomplish this mission is by funding its members to attend international mission trips that help equip them to live missional lives through their careers in sports. On June 4, USG traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, with a group of 16 members and 4 staff for a two-week trip. While in Kenya, USG served alongside local ministry partners in various ways and experienced the local culture and scenery. If you want to learn more about the trip to Kenya, you can read a detailed summary here. Elizabeth Hornak is is a part of the USG community and has completed our Academy program, has attended an Impact Weekend, is involved in our Community Bible Studies, and has served as a Shepherd in the USG Academy. Most recently, "EB" served in Ticket Sales with the Charlotte Hornets. Below is a testimony from Elizabeth about her experience in Kenya and the impact it had on her. "Walking closely with the Lord and knowing Him as my Shepherd and closest friend has been my greatest joy. Inviting Him into every part of your life and truly knowing Him is the greatest treasure we as believers get to experience and share with others. Going into 2026, my prayer was to continue growing in Christian community. It is so important to be surrounded by fellow believers, as iron sharpens iron. God was quick to answer that prayer in a way I never could have imagined by giving me the opportunity to go on a mission trip to Africa with nineteen incredible Christians within Uncommon Sports Group. Once again, He provided far more than I could have asked for. The beautiful thing about the Christian community is that we see one another first as brothers and sisters in Christ, creating a unity that can't be found anywhere else. Through each person's unique gifts, personal testimonies, and experiences, God is seen and known at a different depth. I experienced that firsthand with this group. I could so clearly see the different spiritual gifts God had carefully chosen and given to each of my new friends, and I watched those gifts come to life each day as we served throughout Nairobi. It was such a blessing to witness how God is using each of them to make a Kingdom impact. Each evening, members of our team shared their personal testimonies, and those moments became some of the greatest encouragements to my faith. Hearing how God had faithfully pursued, rescued, and provided for each person reminded me that He is the same faithful God who has always shown up in my life. The honesty, vulnerability, and childlike joy we shared brought us together as true brothers and sisters in Christ. Looking back, I am so grateful that God overflowed my cup in answering my prayer for deeper Christian friendships. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7: 7-8 During my time in Kenya, God placed several things on my heart. One of the biggest was growing in prayer for others and partnering more closely with God’s will. He gave me a greater desire to pour into others instead of getting caught up in my own circumstances. I want to be there for God the way He has always been, and always will be for me. “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” John 20:21. I left Kenya with the desire to be a true servant of Christ. I don't want to leave anything on the table regarding the purpose with which God has called me. No more selfish ambition - this life is all about Jesus and has always been about Jesus. Our relationship with Him is what matters, and knowing that, living that, is worth more than anything this world has to offer. Another truth God made so clear to me on this trip is His great love for His people. Our time at Huduma School and spending time with the students was incredibly special. The Holy Spirit was so evident there, and I was constantly overwhelmed by the love that filled the place. Being with those children and experiencing their joy was incredibly life-giving. As I spent time with them, I could feel in my heart how deeply God loves every one of them and how faithfully He will always care for them. It’s beautiful to be aware of the presence of God’s love. There is nothing in this world like it, and I’m grateful my heart was opened up to see it. After returning from Kenya, I have been covered with a new sense of peace and a profound trust in the Lord. I no longer worry about the future. God calls us to live in the present, and since returning, I have effortlessly been able to do that. Every day is a gift, and God gave me eyes to see it. I am very grateful for the mission trip to Kenya and I will be forever blessed by it!" - "EB" Seeing the impact that the Lord brought about from this trip, both in Elizabeth's life and in the individuals we served in Kenya, has been such an encouragement! We are grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the Lord in Kenya with this group of Christ-centered leaders of the sport industry. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a part of USG's growing community of Christian sport industry professionals, click here!

This past weekend, the 2026 Christians Working in Sports (CWS) Conference gathered roughly 200 believers working throughout the sport industry. This year marked the conference's fourth year and was hosted at Cornerstone Church in Nashville, Tennessee. This conference aims to connect Christian professionals working in athletics, encourage them in their walk with Christ, and equip them to live out their faith boldly while navigating the demands of a career in the sport industry. These goals were accomplished through a series of intentional keynote speeches and panel discussions by a lineup of distinguished guest speakers, small group discussions, and intentional moments of fellowship. The event kicked off on Friday, June 26th, at 3:00 pm. The first session featured a keynote message from Pastor Mike Linch on living the Christian life as a team sport. Mike addressed the importance of having a community of believers to support, guide, and encourage us through our walk with Christ and the challenges we face as believers. Following this encouraging message from Pastor Mike Linch, a panel of speakers took the stage to discuss "channeling ambition for God’s purposes". The panel was hosted by Jason Romano and included Dan McDonnell (Head Coach of Louisville Baseball), Carol Varonyak (Founder of Leading the Way Talent and former ESPN analyst), and Chris Redhage (Co-founder and minority owner of Nashville SC). The discussion focused on how ambition should be used to pursue the goals the Lord has in store for you rather than your own worldly accolades. Before dinner, Jason Romano returned to the stage to interview Ted Crews III (Special Advisor to the President/CEO & CAO of the Chicago Bears) about personal transformation and the influence of gospel in sports. Ted shared some insights from his own faith journey and how God has allowed him to influence his organization with his faith. Following dinner, five individuals were honored with awards that reflect their faithfulness to connect, encourage, and equip Christians working in sports. The Rising Uncommon Leader awards went to Carter Stanton and Hope Anderson. The Collegiate and Professional Uncommon Leader Awards went to Paul Conner and Kelli Masters Reneau. The Barnabas Award- given to someone who models encouragement and servant-hearted leadership- was awarded to Rasheed Flowers. After the awards were given, we welcomed comedian Brian Bates to the stage. What better way to conclude Day 1 than with lots of joy and laughter? On Saturday morning, everyone gathered again for a worship session to start the day. This was followed by a keynote message from esteemed speaker and author Jon Gordon. Jon spoke on the topic of positive habits, offering the audience practical tips and applications for building a positive lifestyle and being a positive leader. Following this, Jason Romano led another panel discussion on spiritual formation for sports professionals. This panel included Benthany Miller (Senior Director of Athletics at Biola University), Juliana Smith (General Manager of Baylor Women’s Basketball), and Joseph Pun (Director of Spring Training Operations for Athletics). After lunch, attendees had the opportunity to attend a couple of the breakout sessions offered. While some listened to topics such as the theology of suffering, others heard about women in sports, practical ways to evangelize, and even the impact of a faithful coach. After the breakout sessions, attendees returned to the main auditorium for another panel. This panel was hosted by CBS broadcaster Clark Kellogg and included Joni Taylor (Head Coach of Women’s Basketball at Texas A&M), Tim Whang (VP of Global Partnership Activation for the Atlanta Hawks), and Tina Ruffin (VP of Engagement, Tennessee Titans). The panel centered on servant leadership in sports and its impact on the lives of players, co-workers, and friends. Following this panel, conference host Karlie Flowers came on stage to interview Christian Hovestadt. Christina gave a powerful message about finding joy in uncertainty and the hidden moments in life and in a career in sports. This message was followed by an emotional call to action as numerous attendees flocked to the front of the stage to receive prayer and encouragement. Finally, Wayne Simien (Associate AD for Engagement at KU Athletics) delivered a moving keynote address on leading under lordship. This was an excellent conclusion to the event as he reminded the audience to submit to the Lord first before leading others. Gathering over 200 Christians from across the sports industry under one roof to glorify Christ is a unique and special privilege. Watching the church within sports come together to grow, connect, and leave encouraged was a joy—and we’re excited to see how God will use the seeds planted during this conference to expand His Kingdom! If you missed this year’s conference—or if you attended and can’t wait to return—make plans now for the 2027 CWS Conference in Dallas, Texas, June 25- 26, 2027. Registration is already open, so click here to register! See you next summer in Dallas!

On June 4, the Uncommon Sports Group mission trip team departed for an eleven-day mission trip to Kenya. The team consisted of sixteen sports industry professionals and four staff members. Each team member came from a different organization and background within the sports industry, but we came together with the shared purpose of growing in Christ, encountering Him, and serving Him faithfully in Kenya. If you'd like to learn more about the attendees, click here to read the pre-trip blog. In Kenya, Uncommon Sports Group works primarily with two ministry partners. The first is a church and primary school called Huduma, located in the Kawangware slum. Our ministry with Huduma began on Sunday, June 7. We attended worship services at Huduma Cathedral and had the opportunity to worship alongside the local community. On Monday, June 8, we began our sports camp ministry at Huduma Primary School. The school serves more than 600 students from the Kawangware community. Our ministry with the students includes donating sports equipment and school supplies, as well as hosting sports camps for the children. These camps focus on serving the students, teaching practical athletic skills, and intentionally investing in their spiritual growth. The four sports we teach are soccer, basketball, volleyball, and American football. Each team member is assigned to a different sport each day and is responsible for leading drills and activities for the students. The team served in sports camp ministry for three days, concluding on Wednesday, June 10. On Thursday, June 11, the team participated in street evangelism throughout Kawangware. This ministry is both impactful and meaningful. Team members go door to door, sharing the gospel and praying with people in the community. An important aspect of this ministry is gaining a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and daily realities faced by those living in the community. After completing our ministry with our first partner, we transitioned to serving alongside our second partner, a pastor and sports minister named Kennedy Salano. Kennedy ministers to coaches and young athletes across Kenya. Our ministry with Pastor Salano consisted of a coaches seminar and a soccer tournament. The coaches seminar brought together more than one hundred coaches from across Kenya. These coaches represented a variety of sports and age groups. The team's ministry focused on helping coaches faithfully live out their faith in Christ within their coaching roles. Topics included discipleship, prayer, and other practical applications of faith in sports. Eight of our team members had the opportunity to teach sessions, while the remaining members facilitated discussion at the tables. On Saturday, June 13, our ministry with Pastor Salano continued with a soccer tournament. The tournament brought together eight teams coached by individuals who had attended the seminar the previous day. The team's ministry included serving and encouraging the coaches, mentoring the athletes, and sharing a gospel presentation with every team at the conclusion of the tournament. This was an excellent opportunity for the coaches to put into practice what they had learned during the seminar. On Sunday, our ministry with Pastor Kennedy concluded at his church, where team members shared words of encouragement with the congregation. In addition, USG Director of Ministry Noah Weiss preached a message focused on a biblical theology of suffering, encouraging the church to trust in the Lord's work in their lives amid hardship and trials. The team wrapped up the trip on Monday, June 15, with a visit to Amboseli National Park for an African safari. It was an incredible experience, and the team even witnessed the rare sight of a cheetah chasing a gazelle. As team members travel home, our prayer is that they will continue pursuing the Lord and serving Him faithfully in their everyday lives. The Lord moved powerfully through each member of the team during this trip, and every individual is returning to their community and organization transformed by what God has done. Thank you for your support and prayers throughout this trip. If you'd like to learn more about Uncommon Sports Group and how you can get involved, click here.

On June 4th, Uncommon Sports Group will return to Nairobi, Kenya, with 16 Christian sports professionals and 4 staff members for a two-week short-term mission trip. Each summer, Uncommon Sports Group offers a fully-funded international trip for sport industry professionals to experience life, faith, and community outside their normal context. USG members apply for international trips and are selected based on criteria outlined by USG staff. USG has had the opportunity to serve in Kenya four times before, and we look forward to returning for a fifth time alongside our ministry partners there. This year’s team includes Christian sport industry professionals from various universities and organizations, including the Charlotte Hornets, University of Kentucky, Nashville Predators, Baylor University, University of Houston, University of Michigan, Texas Christian University, Hawai'i Pacific University, Jackson State, and more. What Are We Doing? Upon arrival, the team will minister alongside the Rosslyn Academy, a top-rated International School in Kenya, which inspires and equips each student to develop their God-given gifts for Christ-like service in the world community. After partnering with the local community, the group will attend church with one of our ministry partners at Huduma Cathedral in Kawangware. Another partner is a Christian church and primary school located in an impoverished community in Nairobi. The school provides education for students from preschool through eighth grade who would otherwise lack access to education. Over the next three days, USG will serve alongside the Huduma School in Kawangware. The USG team will provide various equipment for the school, including sports balls (soccer balls, basketballs, footballs, volleyballs), jump ropes, ball pumps, soccer goals, pencils, pens, and writing pads. Furthermore, the team will serve students through sports camps. The camps allow the students to compete with one another, develop teamwork skills, learn new sports, and practice Christ-centered principles. Following the three days of sports camps, USG will engage in gospel evangelism within the impoverished community surrounding the school. We will be sent out in groups with members from the local church who can help with translation and engaging in conversation with locals. The third partner that USG will be serving with is a local pastor and sports minister. Alongside this partner, USG will host a coaches' clinic for approximately 100 sports coaches from across Kenya and neighboring countries. The clinic will focus on providing practical instruction for the coaches in attendance to help them become Christ-centered leaders for their athletes. During the clinic, the attending coaches will hear instructional messages from three USG attendees, including three staff members. The topics that these messages will cover include “Spiritual Disciplines for a Coach”, “Serving God with the Big Picture in Mind", “Power of God's Word for Coaches”, and "Developing Healthy Relationships." After each speaker, attendees will reflect on the message in small groups. Following the Coach's Seminar, the Kenya team will serve at a soccer tournament (Kenya Assemblies of God Church & School), sharing the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ, officiating games, encouraging the players/coaches, and more. Beyond the important work the group will be doing alongside USG's partners in Kenya, they will also do a six-session Bible study together as a team through the book of Galatians. The group must remain grounded in the Word of God while serving throughout the day! Lastly, the group will have the opportunity to enjoy Kenya's beauty by going on a safari in Amboseli National Park! Who Is Attending? USG is grateful to have seventeen sport industry professionals attending the mission trip to Kenya. Below is a short biography from each attendee to help you get to know them better. Each of their biographies will have their reason for attending and a prayer request that they have leading up to the trip, and we encourage you to lift those requests to the Lord in prayer! Travis Jarome - Jackson State, Associate AD / Sports Media To be the hands and feet of Jesus, to serve as I am called to serve. Also, to grow in my faith. A prayer request(s) is for safe travels and discernment of His Word while on the trip; prayers for grace and mercy while traveling to an unknown place. Rusty Watson - Mill Creek High School Basketball I am attending this trip to follow the Lord's commandment to spread the Gospel in all the ends of the earth Acts 1:8 I truly believe he has called me here to use my strengths to further his kingdom. Please pray for me to be completely focused on where my feet are while I am there. To listen to those around me and follow the Holy Spirit in everything I do. Pray for the Lord to use me to speak at the coaches' clinic. Pray for our team to come together as a family on mission for the Lord. Pray we all stay healthy and have the energy each day to give it our all! Garrett Shifflett - Hawai’i Pacific University Men’s Basketball I am attending the trip to see how the Gospel reaches parts of the world that don't have the same earthly blessings as we do, and to see a new place. Pray for safe passage to and from Kenya, and that God would use us to plant seeds in the hearts of those we meet. Elizabeth Hornak - Account Executive, Group Sales / Charlotte Hornets I am attending this trip to spread the beautiful name of Jesus as well as to strengthen my relationship with Him and grow closer to other brothers and sisters in Christ. My prayer request is for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully throughout this trip, and the people we interact with encounter the glory and love of God. Dana Blount - Texas Christian University My reason for attending the Kenya Mission trip is to live out my faith through service, use my leadership and service experience to support others, and continue growing spiritually through cross-cultural, faith-based outreach. Please pray for spiritual strength, fortitude, and endurance throughout the journey. Gretchen LeVan – University of Valley Forge, Director of Athletics I'm attending because God has been nudging me to step beyond my comfort zone. Kenya feels like that invitation — a chance to serve, to give, and to be used by Him in ways I can't yet fully imagine. Pray that we have divine appointments where those we encounter can sense the presence of Jesus on us and we have the opportunity to share the gospel. Hans Malebranche - Baylor University I was invited by a friend and supported by my employer to attend this trip. Pray that God would arrest any judgmentalism and pride that I have about my culture and my way of doing things, and be open to receiving wisdom from other people and other cultures. Geoff Green - Neuroscientist at University of Houston, Cognitive Performance Consultant for fitness and athletics God has given me so much and done so much for me. Everything I’ve asked for, He has been supplying. However, instead of asking God to provide this and bless me with that, I’ve started asking God what do You want me to do, where do You want me to go, and to whom do you want me to meet/speak? God provided an opportunity for Kenya, so I didn’t hesitate. For God to speak through me at every minor and major encounter/opportunity. Learn to see with my heart and not my eyes. Rasheed Flowers - University of Kentucky, Associate Professor (Sport Management) My reason for attending is to answer the call to use the platform of sport to share the Gospel (and a precious gift to do that with my wife!) The prayer request is for God to be glorified through our humility, surrender, and service. Natalie Bale - George Fox University, Doctor of Psychology Student/Linfield University Sports Psych Practicum Student I wanted to attend the USG Kenya mission trip because I got to see the impact of USG’s partnerships in Nairobi first-hand two years ago. It is such a gift to get to love on the kids during sports camps, but also to see the long-lasting change happening thanks to Huduma’s heart for people to know Jesus. I also met my husband on this mission trip in 2024, and getting to go back as a married couple is a great way to live out God’s purpose for our marriage. We are excited to serve the Lord as a team! My prayer request is for good sleep and recovery throughout the trip so that we can give all that we have to the people we are serving! David Ingemi - Nashville Predators I’ve always had a strong desire to be the hands and feet of Jesus overseas, and the timing of this trip truly feels like an answered prayer. Serving at a sports camp in Kenya is a perfect opportunity to combine my passion for sports with my faith. I’m excited for the opportunity to grow spiritually, step outside my comfort zone, and gain a broader understanding of different cultures and perspectives around the world. Please pray that our team would make a meaningful impact on everyone we encounter, that we would have safety and protection throughout the trip, and that I would grow closer to the Lord and experience Him in a new way. Victoria Smith - University of Minnesota, Twin Cities I want to attend this trip because I have truly felt called back to the mission field and to the Kawangware community ever since our farewell last summer. I am deeply looking forward to the opportunity to continue serving a community that holds such a special place in my heart. Prayers that the Lord would continue to shape my heart into one that desires a life of servitude. Jalen Stone - University of Michigan The reason for attending the trip is to deepen my trust in God's plan for my life. The prayer request is for physical health. Preston Fore - Missouri Baptist University football. I am looking forward to attending this trip. At first, I was hesitant to apply, but God says in 2 Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight." After a couple of days of prayer, I felt led to apply and wanted to challenge myself in my faith by stepping outside my comfort zone. My goal is to serve God and share His love with those who may not know Him. I ask for prayer for the people in Nairobi whom we will meet, that God would fill our conversations and time together with joy and love, and that He would open their eyes to see how good He is. I also ask for prayer for our team, that God would keep us safe throughout the trip and fill us with wisdom, strength, and joy as we serve there. William Bale - George Fox University Two years ago the Lord divinely opened the door for me to attend and challenged me in service and boldness. I experienced the love of Christ abroad and even met my wife. I am returning to serve once again with a new team to walk in unity and love in the body of Christ and see the Lord move once again. Prayer request: Prevent any illness, and that our team would walk in humility, love, and patience. James Berkenpas - Uncommon Sports Group. I am going to live out the Great Commission and grow in community with the global body of Christ. Prayer request: That the team would bond as one in our goal to serve God and our Kenyan brothers and sisters. Conclusion USG is grateful to have the opportunity to serve the Lord in Kenya alongside a group of Christ-centered sport industry professionals. A special thank you to every supporter of Uncommon Sports Group, specifically those who have donated to the Clean Out For A Cause funding operation. Without your prayerful and financial support, trips such as these would not be possible! If you are interested in keeping up with USG’s activities in Kenya, be sure to follow our social media pages or subscribe to our newsletter so you can see what we are up to!

In this episode, Dean Inserra, Lead Pastor at CITYCHURCH in Tallahassee, FL, shares on his book The Unsaved Christian: Reaching Cultural Christianity with the Gospel. In this conversation, Dean discusses the difference between cultural Christianity and true Christianity, and how to minister to those who are stuck in a cultural understanding of the Christian faith. A new episode of the Uncommon Podcast is released every two weeks. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, right here on our website, or wherever you get your podcasts. Check out this episode, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast to get alerts when new episodes are released! Do you want to join our community of Christian leaders working in the college and pro sport industry? Learn how you can get involved with USG here.⁠⁠⁠

Uncommon Sports Group is humbled to have the opportunity to provide $15,000 of scholarship funds to thirteen young professionals who desire to work in the sport industry each semester. These scholarships are awarded thanks to our generous sponsor, Helmet Tracker. Our Spring 2026 Reflection Scholarship required applicants to watch a choice of 2 videos from our 2025 CWS Conference. Applicants were then asked to answer three reflective questions based on the video. We'd like to thank everyone who took the time to apply! Scholarship Winners: First Place - $3,000 Scholarship: Olivia Nicholson- HR Assistant for Athletics, Florida State University Second Place - $2,500 Scholarship: Alexa Hackmann- Football Intern, Clemson University Third Place - $2,000 Scholarship: Jac Bors- Swimming & Diving Coach, Roberts Wesleyan University. Honorable Mentions: $750 Scholarships Tracy Abesamis- Ambassador, Las Vegas Raiders Etornam Akplagah- Graduate Assistant, University of Kentucky Natalie Bale- Doctoral Student, George Fox University Calvin Custance- Student Football Manager, Central Michigan University Delaney Dahl- Sports Management Student, Taylor University Danika Dodson- Student Football Manager, Iowa State University Jaylon Joyner- Adjunct Instructor, Loyola University Chicago Lily Sweet King- Director of Recruiting and Operations, Appalachian State Football Sam Morgan- Personal Trainer/Nutrition Coach, American Family Fitness Gianna Sanda - Kinesiology Student, University of Rhode Island For those who are new to Uncommon Sports Group, USG is a non-profit that provides professional and Christ-centered training to individuals pursuing a career in collegiate or professional athletics. For more information, check out our website or contact us. We'd love to hear from you.

In our latest episode of the Uncommon Podcast, Claude Thomas, Campus Pastor at Elevation Church, Chaplain for North Carolina Central Football, and former USG Academy Graduate, shares how to walk in purity, finding identity in Christ, not the sports, job, or dream, and more! Discuss the necessity of seeking first the kingdom of God daily and learning to crucify "self" to walk in the fullness of God. This episode features special guest Rasheed Flowers, Sports Management Professor at the University of Kentucky. A new episode of the Uncommon Podcast is released every two weeks. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, right here on our website, or wherever you get your podcasts. Check out this episode, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast to get alerts when new episodes are released! Do you want to join our community of Christian leaders working in the college and pro sport industry? Learn how you can get involved with USG here.⁠⁠⁠

“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." In the gospel of Matthew, scripture reveals a fascinating truth about the way of the Kingdom. Let's take a closer look at what Jesus teaches about childlikeness, starting with Matthew chapter 18, verse one... "At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me." I love how Jesus steps into the room and flips the status quo on its head. In the early 1st century, children were viewed as having the lowest status in society. Jesus calling the children to Himself shows how He brings value to the lowest, most forgotten places. Jesus Christ Himself took the lowly place, as we read in Philippians 2, and beckons His beloved disciples to follow His way. "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!" Phil 2:6-8 Throughout various teachings, Jesus tells the disciples that to be the greatest of all, you must be the servant of all. To emphasize His teaching, Jesus takes action, stooping low to wash His disciples' feet at the Last Supper during Passover. He took the lowest place of all, descending from Golgatha to the depths of the earth (Eph. 4:10), to defeat death once and for all. Time after time, Jesus shows His humility, crying, "I am meek and lowly in heart." When a believer follows and surrenders to the Lordship of Jesus, the Holy Spirit transforms and regenerates the born-again life. He is redeeming Christ-likeness in His followers, as the individuals in the body of Christ constantly saturate themselves in the Word, prayer, communion, fellowship with believers, worship, etc. On a personal note, the more I follow Yeshua, the more He molds me in meekness and lowliness. The more I follow His path, the more I realize that lowliness unlocks intimacy and is where life is birthed. Jesus came into this world as an infant, born in a manger (probably surrounded by animal dung and other unmentionables), and from the first moment He took a breath as a baby, He walked in lowliness and complete dependence on the Father. Even though Jesus matured, He never outgrew dependency. Just as we mature physically and spiritually, we never, ever outgrow dependency. Let's return to Matthew 18. Jesus tells His followers to take the place of a child, yes, to showcase servanthood and humility as two pillars of the Christian walk. But, there's more to it. Picture a child you've seen recently. They're pretty needy, right? Constantly relying on Mom or Dad for food, water, clothing, toys...for everything! Hopefully, that child was unafraid to approach the parent for its needs because a secure environment had been established. (I'm aware this is not always the case in families, and for that, I'm extremely sorrowful. However, our Heavenly Father is perfect, and His Fathering is always perfect. Please look to Him for the most Holy and loving example of parenting.) To walk, to run, to speak, to climb...A child is completely at the mercy of their parents' care and the lessons they learn from them. Jesus says in John 5:19-20... “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does." Sounds a lot like childlikeness, yeah? Jesus, who was filled with the Holy Spirit, was constantly in Oneness with Father. Supernaturally, He was connected even while He walked as a man on earth. If Jesus stayed this close to the Father, how much more do we need dependency on the Father? Let's take a moment to reflect on scriptures that point us to childlike dependency: “He trusts in the LORD, let the LORD deliver him; let the LORD rescue him, since He delights in him.” Yet You brought me forth from the womb; You made me secure at my mother’s breast. From birth I was cast upon You; from my mother’s womb You have been my God." Psalm 22:9 "As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you;" Isaiah 66:13 "For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading again to fear [of God’s judgment], but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons [the Spirit producing sonship] by which we [joyfully] cry, “Abba! Father!” Romans 8:15 Everything we have, we have first received from Him. So this means that if you're a seminary professor or a sideline reporter, you need Jesus. If you're a Pastor or professional athlete, you need Jesus. If you're a worship leader or athletic administrator, you need Jesus. We don't outgrow our dependence, or look only to Him for help when we're doing "sacred" things. We are constantly, forever, and always learning to walk in daily dependency in His presence and His life alive in us. So, right now, let's turn to God and repent for self-reliance (myself included). Holy Father, I'm so sorry for trying to do this walk without you. I'm sorry for trying to perform my way into right relationship with you. Thank you for the cross. Thank you for bringing me into your family. I am your child. I need you, God. Please reveal your Help to me. Amen. It's amazing and true that God really does know what we have need of, and He knows what we need before we ask. John 14:26 says, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you." When the scriptures testify that God will never leave you nor forsake you, we need to believe that. The Father sent the Holy Spirit (Helper) to now dwell in the lives of believers and to fill/empower the church to walk in the power of God, with an awareness of the presence of God. This radically changes everything! Imagine a child coming to Jesus. They're not trying to win His approval or puff themselves up to enter His presence. They simply come, as they're told. And so now, the Lord is telling you, asking you to come to Him, like a child. Can you do this? Can you trust in the Father's goodness as you come humbly and dependent on Him, believing that He is pouring out His love on you? So, to close, we should not view dependency as a limitation. When Adam and Eve walked in the Garden of Eden, prior to the fall of humanity, they were in perfect communion with God. The creation in union with the Creator. When sin entered, the couple hid from God. Church, it's time to stop hiding and run back to the Father. This is what Jesus bled, died, rose, and paid for. In Christ, you are now tethered together, fully restored to right relationship with the Father. This is freedom; knowing that you can come under the shelter of His wings and entrust yourself to the Father's care. There's nothing too hard for Him. He is totally and completely in control. He is Good and Just and Wonderful. He never makes mistakes, and He knows exactly what to do with you. Your Father loves you. He desires for you to know Him and love Him. He's made a way for you to do that boldly and freely. He's created you to depend and lean upon your Beloved. Cease striving, and come to Him like a child. Surrender means total dependency, over and over again. As I'm writing this, I pray for a fresh wind of grace to fill you. May you see and know truly how much better life is when you release control and depend on Him. I bless you to ask the Holy Spirit to take you by the hand and lead you into life everlasting in His presence. Thanks for reading this month's blog post. If you're interested in learning more about Uncommon Sports Group or getting connected, click here.

In our latest episode of the Uncommon Podcast, Eric Russ of Christ Covenant Church explores the biblical foundations of the complementarian view on gender roles in the church. Understand its significance for believers and the implications for worship and authority. Learn about the ongoing dialogue about gender roles within the church and society, and explore how both genders are equally valuable in God's eyes, created in His image. A new episode of the Uncommon Podcast is released every two weeks. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, right here on our website, or wherever you get your podcasts. Check out this episode, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast to get alerts when new episodes are released!   Do you want to join our community of Christian leaders working in the college and pro sport industry? Learn how you can get involved with USG here.⁠⁠⁠

On the weekend of March 20-22, Uncommon Sports Group hosted 24 USG Academy participants and 5 shepherds in Dallas, TX, for an Impact Weekend! USG seeks to connect, encourage, and equip Christians working throughout the college and professional sport industry. A large part of how we accomplish this mission is through the USG Academy and Impact Weekend. These weekends allow Academy graduates to put what they have learned in the virtual Academy into action, such as networking with present leaders of the college and pro sport industry, fellowshipping with other Christians in sports, and being challenged to grow in their walks with Christ. One of our participants during the Impact Weekend, Elizabeth Hornak, is presently working as an Account Executive for Group Sales with the Charlotte Hornets. Read below to hear a testimony of her experience during the Impact Weekend: "My favorite site visit was the Cowboys stadium. I have been working in sports for roughly 5 years now and have never seen a stadium like that before. It’s massive! It was very cool to get a tour of the place and envision what it could be like working for an NFL team. I absolutely recommend any Christian working in sports to apply for the Academy and participate in an Impact Weekend. The USG staff pours into their members professionally and most importantly spiritually. You are covered in prayers by people who genuinely have your best interest because Christ is at the center of it all! We are all here to help one another in your career and walk with Jesus.” USG is incredibly appreciative of our Clean Out For A Cause donors for their generosity and for making events like these possible. As we send these new USG members out, we’re confident that they are prepared and equipped to be Christ-centered leaders within the college and pro sport industry. Thank you for your continued prayers and support! If you are interested in learning more about our ministry work at Uncommon Sports Group or getting involved, please click here .

In our latest episode of the Uncommon Podcast, Jamaal Walton, Director of Athletics at VMI, shares his incredible journey of faith and service and reveals how he balances a demanding role as an athletic director while keeping his relationship with Jesus as his top priority. A new episode of the Uncommon Podcast is released every two weeks. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, right here on our website, or wherever you get your podcasts. Check out this episode, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast to get alerts when new episodes are released!   Do you want to join our community of Christian leaders working in the college and pro sport industry? Learn how you can get involved with USG here . ⁠⁠⁠