“Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” Matthew 16:24-26 Oftentimes, before reading the Word, I say this simple prayer. “Holy Spirit, help me understand this word.” This is my hope for us as we dive into Matthew 16:24-26 together: that the Spirit of God would illuminate our eyes with an understanding of the scriptures and that we may see the heart of God in every word.  This portion of scripture in the gospel of Matthew is not always easy to comprehend. To lose your life is to find it? What does that mean? The disciples who followed Jesus as He walked the earth had many of the same questions. In John 6, some of Jesus’ followers responded to his teaching with this…”On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” If you’ve ever read something in the Word of God and had questions, you’re in good company.  Questions are an invitation. They draw a hungry person into deeper fellowship with God; as you seek Him and seek answers, you find Him. So, let’s ponder this question. What does Jesus mean in Matthew 16:24-26? The first place we must go to and learn from is the cross.  Jesus, fully God and fully man, came from heaven to earth. Born of a virgin, He was crucified on a tree as a sacrifice for the sins of all humanity. Three days after His death, He rose and revealed Himself to many. He ascended to the Father's right hand, where He makes constant intercession for us. Those who believe that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life will not perish but have everlasting life. By His body and blood shed on the cross, He made atonement for sin and therefore reconciled those who deserved wrath to be at peace with God; that we may be called Sons and daughters of the most High. This is good news!  Jesus lost His life on the cross so that we would find our life in Him. He died for us and in place of us and invited us into this lifestyle. Due to the fallen nature of humanity, we have this ugly thing called the flesh. The flesh is in direct opposition to the will and nature of God due to sin. Operating in the will of the flesh (the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life) leads to death. But, operating in the spirit (the new life, joined with Christ Jesus) is LIFE and life more abundantly.  So, how do we practically live out Matthew 16:24-26? When we surrender our lives, agendas, hearts, minds, souls, and strength moment by moment to the Lord Jesus, that is called “dying to self.” As a result of this constant decision, we experience and taste the true life that is found when we come ALIVE in Christ Jesus. The more we know Him, the more we desire to be like Him. This takes intentionality in setting time apart to seek the Lord in prayer, worship, scripture reading, gathering of the body of Christ, etc.  In a world that glamorizes self-promotion, fame, raises, and followers…Jesus says, "Abandon this thinking and instead follow me." We need to ask a real and raw question right now: Do we genuinely believe that forsaking all to follow Jesus is worth it?  As a sports industry professional, athlete, etc., you’re faced with two roads. One road is the way of the world, which preaches “do everything and anything you can to gain worldly success…no matter the cost. Another road (the one less traveled) says, “Surrender control…your striving, expectations, plans and seek first the Kingdom of God.” (Matthew 6:33)  Let me tell you something…Standing before the Lord Jesus, you won’t wonder, ‘Did I have enough worldly recognition? Did every dream come to fruition? Did I have a big enough influence?” No earthly title, resume, or high-profile job will get you deeper into the throne room. Oh no, only the blood of Jesus. Instead, while you’re at the gate of eternity, you will be asked, “What did you do with my Son.”  He’s worth it.  Jesus is your best Friend. He is your Husband. He is your Lord, Master, Maker, King. He is holiness, the essence of God personified. He is the beginning and the end, Alpha and Omega. He is more than we can comprehend. In His Spirit is life, joy, peace, righteousness. That longing in your heart that you have right now…He’s got the answer for it. He’s the solution. He’s the most faithful and loving and HOLY ONE. The best part? He’s longing for you. He desires all of you.  Right now, you have a choice. Continue to strive and chase after the things of this world…or surrender. Give every ambition over to Jesus. Spend time with Him and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal Jesus. Watch Him turn every want, concern, need, and desire into greater intimacy, knowledge, and revelation of Jesus.  Prayer: Lord, I choose you. Right now, I pick up my cross. I desire to be where you are, to live how you lived…No matter the cost. You are worthy because there is no life, only death without you. I choose LIFE found in Jesus. Keep me close to the cross. Teach me to delight in your ways and rejoice in the freedom of losing my life to find it. In Jesus’ name, amen.  If you would like to learn more about Uncommon Sports Group, or get involved with our ministries, tap the link here !

How do people get into full-time ministry? And how can someone become more effective in their discipleship strategies? In this episode, Tim Griffin — Dean of Students, University Pastor, and Vice President of Student Affairs at Grand Canyon University — shares his journey to full-time ministry, his experience as a NASCAR chaplain, and how to minister to the younger generation, among other topics. 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 2025 Reflection Scholarship required applicants to watch a choice of 2 videos from our 2024 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: Anthony Wedel - Graduate Assistant/Ticket Office Associate, Liberty University Second Place - $2,500 Scholarship: Natalie Osborne - Doctoral Student, George Fox University Third Place - $2,000 Scholarship: Wright Kimbro - Men’s Basketball Graduate Assistant, Gardner-Webb. Honorable Mentions:  $750 Scholarships William Bale - Graduate Assistant with Equipment Room Athletics, VCU Eli Hopkins -  Masters of Science in Management, UNC Charlotte Tamara Brown - Sports Journalism Professional Brett Hemphill - Volunteer Scout Player for Women’s Basketball Team, Loyola University Maryland Jaylon Joyner - Adjunct Instructor, Exercise Science Program, Loyola University Chicago Hope Krekoska - Director of Operations for Men’s Golf and Women’s Volleyball, Liberty University Danika Dobson - Student Equipment Manager for Football, Iowa State Jason Yeick - Athletic Department Intern, Bloomsburg University Victoriano Garcia III - Master’s in Athletic Training, Texas A&M University Luke Nichols  - Sports Management Student For those who are new to Uncommon Sports Group, USG is a non-profit that provides professional and Christ-centered training to young adults 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.

USG member Anthony Wedel won USG's 2025 Spring Reflection Scholarship. This blog will feature Anthony’s winning essay! Winning Spring 2025 Essay by: Anthony Wedel -  Graduate Assistant/Ticket Office Associate at Liberty University "In the fast-paced and demanding world of the sports industry, it is easy to become consumed by work and neglect the spiritual disciplines that ground and sustain us. As Christians working or aspiring to work in sports, maintaining a consistent relationship with God is essential, even in the busiest seasons. This message emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual disciplines, especially prayer, as a way to stay connected to God and strengthen our faith. By making time for prayer and other spiritual practices, we honor God and allow Him to guide our paths, no matter how hectic our schedules may be. The message is deeply relevant to Christians in the sports industry because it highlights the struggle to balance work and spiritual life which is one of the most prevalent discussions in the sports world. The demanding nature of sports often blurs the lines between professional and personal time, causing spiritual disciplines to become secondary. However, as 1 Thessalonians 5:17 instructs, we are called to "pray without ceasing," encouraging us to maintain a continual conversation with God. Even in the busiest moments, there are opportunities to seek Him through prayer. This message reminds us that God desires our attention and presence, and when we prioritize Him, He rewards our faithfulness. By intentionally making time for spiritual practices, we can nurture our relationship with God and stay grounded despite the pressures of the sports world. This lesson challenged me to reevaluate how I prioritize my spiritual life in the midst of a demanding schedule. A particularly convicting statement from the message was when Kelli said, "If Jesus needed to get up before the day started and pray and spend time with His Father, don’t you think we need to?" This quote served as a powerful reminder that if even Jesus made time for prayer, I must also be intentional about dedicating time to God even when I may feel that I am too busy. Often, when life becomes overwhelming, I focus on the external demands instead of the most important relationship in my life—my relationship with God. This message encourages me to make tangible changes, such as waking up earlier to spend quiet time with God. It also prompts me to seek a true quiet space where I can be fully present with Him, regardless of how busy my day may be. A practical step I can take to apply this message is to incorporate intentional prayer into the beginning and end of my day. Specifically, spending 15 to 30 minutes to start my day in prayer and fellowship with God. This quiet time will help me center my thoughts, seek His guidance, and prepare for the challenges ahead especially when I may be feeling overwhelmed or drained from work. Additionally, I will conclude my day by spending another 15 minutes in prayer, allowing me to reflect on the day and rest in God’s presence, opening up a space for correction so that I can make myself better every day. By consistently dedicating these moments to God, I can strengthen my spiritual foundation and navigate the demands of the sports industry with faith and purpose. This message serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how busy life becomes, we must prioritize our relationship with God. As Christians working or aspiring to work in the sports industry, maintaining spiritual disciplines such as prayer is crucial for staying connected to God and living out our faith. By following the example of Jesus and dedicating intentional time to God, we not only honor Him but also receive the strength and wisdom needed to face the demands of our professional lives. Through small, consistent actions like starting and ending each day in prayer, we can cultivate a deeper relationship with God and bring His light into the world of sports." Thank you, Anthony, for participating in the Spring 2025 USG Reflection Scholarship! We are also thankful to our sponsor, Helmet Tracker , for making this scholarship opportunity possible for all thirteen of our winners! If you have an interest in taking part in USG's Reflection Scholarship program, be sure to apply for our Fall 2025 Reflection Scholarship , which goes live on September 5th!

Working in the sports industry is not for the faint of heart. It's absolutely vital as believers to build spiritual muscles to endure the trials that come while walking on mission in the industry. How can you build spiritual strength and grow in the Lord despite secular culture? Where does contentment come from in an ever-changing industry? How can you trust the Lord when the "next step" is unknown? In this episode, Courtney Taybron, Senior Associate AD / Sports Performance / SWA at Jacksonville University, discusses guarding the heart and mind in the sports industry, strength in suffering, waiting on the Lord, God's promotion, and more. 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 sports industry? Learn how you can get involved with USG here .

The first week of April, Uncommon Sports Group sponsored a group of industry professionals to attend the 2025 WBCA Convention in Tampa, Florida. WBCA is the Women's Basketball Coaches Association's annual event. It's an excellent opportunity to connect with peers, grow as a coach or mentor, and learn from those who have paved the way in women's basketball. While the convention opens doors for plenty of career growth, the primary intent is for attendees to shine the light of Christ and encounter Him in a deeper way at the convention. While in Tampa, USG Member and Assistant Women's Basketball Coach at Chattanooga, Mallory Odell, led an open Bible study for conference attendees. Enjoy Mallory's testimony from the event! "I was honored to have the opportunity to attend this year’s WBCA Convention in Tampa, Florida, with the assistance of both my institution and USG. It is never lost on me what amazing experiences I am being presented with, so I want to start with pouring out gratitude and continuing with an ever-thankful heart. This year’s convention was heavy on community, which I believe we all need more than ever. I know I do! It was great to be able to connect with colleagues and other coaches in similar situations and listen, share, and learn on all different levels and topics. Similarly, the USG community was welcoming and warm as we reconnected and shared about this past year’s experiences and explored what is to come. I also had the most special experience leading the USG Bible Study. We had an intimate group and dug into John 1. We studied the word, shared about how Jesus moves both in our lives and workplaces, and reflected on how we can all be as faithful and obedient as John and share of Jesus boldly within our professions. This group provided time for honest conversation and discussion as well as genuine fellowship. Also, I had so many special opportunities to share about USG with other believers both while in Tampa and since returning home. I am already looking forward to more fellowship time next year & to continue growing spiritually and professionally with the support and guidance of USG and my fellow coaches and sports professionals in Christ. Let us all follow John’s example and share about Jesus as we draw nearer to him each day!" It was amazing to see how God moved at the WBCA Convention. We are grateful to Mallory for her testimony and bold "yes" to loving and serving Jesus. If you're interested in learning more about Uncommon Sports Group and how we can come alongside you as a Christian in the sport industry, click here  to see how you can get involved.

Anyone who's involved in sports in any capacity knows that the actions you witness in the locker room, gym, sideline, or team meeting are not always representative of Christ's behavior. The question is this: When God calls you to these spaces, how do you maintain a pure heart and life in the realm of sports? In this episode, Bryan Driskell, Notre Dame Football Analyst and Owner of Irish Breakdown, discusses the importance of Christian accountability, upholding faith in secular atmospheres, prioritizing family in sports, job transitions, and more. 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 .

You believe in a God who died for you.  Let that sink in. He is the pure and spotless Lamb who was slain. Picture Him…  Scourged. Bloody. Bruised. Broken. Beaten. Mocked and nailed to a tree. Why would He endure this suffering? Why did He come to earth?  He came to give His life for you. He came as a ransom, a payment for your freedom. He came for you to see His great love for you that He was willing to pay the most costly price. He held the power over death, yet yielded His life to it that you would not have to suffer separation from Him. The same passion that burned inside of Him, the zeal that led Him to the cross, is the same longing that churns in His heart for your love and affection today.... Look at the marks on His hands and the wounds on His side. These marks say, "I love you." The scars say, "I've never stopped loving you…yesterday, today, and forever." I often resonate with Mary Magdalene, who came to the tomb after Jesus's death, not knowing what she'd see. Weeping, she waited at the foot of the tomb, wondering where they'd taken her Lord. Mary loved Jesus; she'd followed Him and been set free because of His kindness and power. Jesus became everything: her life's love and her most prized possession. Now, that body was taken from her. Weeping, she stooped low, not knowing what she'd see…  John the Beloved writes, "Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?" She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, "Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away." Jesus said to her, "Mary!" She turned and said to Him, "Rabboni!" (which is to say, Teacher)." John 20:14-16 Can you imagine the hope!? The wellspring of joy bubbles up as her eyes are opened to her Jesus, crucified and RISEN! He's alive, He's alive, He's alive…Her heart must've run wild with love and life! Oh, but what did Jesus feel in that moment? Noticing her great sorrow and seeing that in an instant, with just one glimpse of His risen body, all of her tears vanished. Every fear, every question, and every concern was healed and relinquished just because He was alive. Thank you, God, HE'S ALIVE!  This is what He came for…This is what He paid for. He came for you and me to realize that this God whom we serve gave His body over to complete and utter suffering. He bore the shame and the sin, and He took on everything! He journeyed to the lowest place possible, and now He is the name above all names. He's the only one worthy to pay for your sin. He's the only one worthy to stand before the throne. His sinless life bore the weight of humanity's sins. Punishment on His skin for your freedom. In His life is your LIFE, in Him is your victory, and in Him is the most profound love you'll ever encounter.  There will come a day when the Lamb will be the light, and we will always be with Him. ( Rev. 21:23 ). Until that day, He's poured out His Holy Spirit so that we may always overflow with His presence. He desires us to be near to Him. As He suffered on the cross, He desired nearness. As He rose and revealed Himself in the garden, He desired nearness. He desired nearness as He broke bread and shared a meal with the disciples. As He poured out His Spirit on the day of Pentecost, He desired nearness. Daily, what does He desire from you and me? Nearness .  Here's a question. Has the revelation of the cross changed everything about you? Do you know that your life is not yours, and He is worthy of your complete surrender and trust? Look at Him. Look at the scars, the marks. The torment He felt in His earthly body was nothing compared to the thought of eternal separation from you. So, He did what no one else could do to pay for you. You've been bought at a very high price. When you stand before the throne and come before Him, it's not your blood but His blood that deems you worthy. When you preach the gospel, you're not proclaiming your goodness or works - you're praising His! HIS works and HIS perfection! Let this freedom and joy wash over you today.  Here's another question. Why do you do what you do? Daily, what is the purpose and motivation behind waking up, spending time with Him, eating breakfast, going to work, working out, loving your family, calling your friend, posting that picture… What's the purpose? Does all of our life flow from the realization that only one is worthy, and He's worthy to have and enjoy all of us and our lives? Are you burning with a longing to love Him and to love His people?  He's after all of you . He didn't pay the price on the tree for just a devotional time in the morning. He deserves all of your life. Selfishness, greed, self-preservation…all of these things can thwart our understanding of the gospel. He died that we may live IN HIM…We don't follow Jesus and our career ambitions. We don't follow Jesus and orchestrate our schedules or agendas. WE follow Jesus, period. He is trustworthy and perfect, and only HE is the way, the truth, and the love.  Human accolades, perceptions of man, followers, performance, and worldly success do not equate to worthiness. His hands, feet, and life scattered on the cross, His resurrection from the grave, His life poured out, His Kingdom come. He is ALONE worthy.  Wherever you're at today, I encourage you to surrender. I'm doing this with you as I type this… There's a fresh opportunity for the mercy of God to pour out into your life and open your eyes to the revelation of His Son. Repent. The Kingdom of God has come. Lay down all ambition, concern, pride, and lust at His feet. Allow His Holy Spirit to wash you clean, His Word to rejuvenate you. Walk with Him. Talk with Him. Learn His heart for you and His people.  His heart was torn, and your love mends it. Tend to His heart today by giving Him your entire life. Enjoy the delight of the Father rush in as He consumes all that you are and all that you become.  If you would like to learn more about Uncommon Sports Group, or get involved with our ministries, tap the link here !

This past week, Uncommon Sports Group travelled to the annual NABC Convention alongside of the Final Four weekend in San Antonio. USG provided nine of its members with the opportunity to receive funding to attend the convention. Each of these individuals is pursuing a career in college basketball coaching, and is seeking to serve Christ through their careers. Attending the NABC Convention is impactful for these young coaches because it allows them to network with and learn from other coaches in the industry. USG staff arrived on Thursday to connect with the group and other coaches in the industry. On Thursday evening, the staff led a Bible study on Mark 12:28-44. This was a great opportunity to read and discuss the Word as a group. A challenging discussion from the study was on the two greatest commandments that Jesus gives in verses 28-34. The group discussed how these two commandments can be lived out practically amidst the challenges of working in coaching. After Bible study, the group shared a meal and fellowship together. On Friday morning, the staff led a time of corporate prayer at the convention center with a group of coaches. It was such a joy to see coaches gathering to commune with the Lord through prayer, especially in a public setting. It is important to reflect the heart of the early church, which made corporate prayer a priority (Acts 2:42). The weekend was filled with opportunities for the USG community in attendance to fellowship with one another, grow as professionals through the opportunities offered at the convention, and grow in Christ through studying His Word in prayer. The Lord is certainly moving through the industry of college basketball, and it was a joy to witness Him at this event! Are you interested in being connected to a group of Christians working in college or pro sports? Learn more here about getting involved with Uncommon Sports Group!

Are you longing for deeper intimacy with the Lord? Do you desire to witness the Great Commission mentioned in Matthew 28:16-20 flowing through your life in the sports industry? Is there a hunger to walk in reverence and holiness by His Spirit? If the answer is yes to the questions above, this is the podcast for you. In this episode, NFL chaplain, traveling speaker, pastor, and author Greg Hendricks discusses a healthy fear of the Lord, the Great Submission, consistency in pursuit of the Lord, and the absolute necessity of knowing the "Playbook" of life. 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 sports industry? Learn how you can get involved with USG here .

In the sports industry, it's easy to fall into the temptation of finding significance and identity in a job title or having a certain successful brand, logo, or accomplishment attached to your name. But what holds eternal value? In this podcast episode, we dive into the importance of a healthy work environment, riding oneself of ego, and focusing on what truly matters. Jared Goldberg, Head Men's Volleyball Coach at The Master's University, shares his nontraditional coaching route, valuing a healthy work environment over the logo, prioritizing family in sports, being present where you're planted, helpful career tips, and more. 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 .

As a sports professional, everything you do (whether seemingly insignificant or not) is on purpose. The relationships forged on the job, the not-so-glamourous internships, fostering community in the local church—all of it plays a role in God's advancement of the Kingdom. In this episode, Luke Unverferth and Kyle Gaspari, Front Office Sports Professionals, share their unique career journies, provide insight on how to live mission-minded in sports, discuss the importance of spiritual rhythms, and give valuable advice to those entering the field. 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 .