Olivia Nicholson was the first-place winner of USG's Spring 2026 Reflection Scholarship. This blog will feature Olivia's winning essay! Winning Spring 2026 Essay by: Olivia Nicholson - Florida State University CWS Video: Navigating Uncertainty in the Sport Industry Introduction The sport industry is uniquely defined by its volatility. Rosters change overnight, coaches are hired and fired in the blink of an eye, and high-stakes decisions are made without being able to remain private. For a Christian working and aspiring to work in the field, these uncertainties can feel overwhelming. However, as discussed in the 2025 CWS Conference Panel, “Navigating Uncertainty,” professionals in the field ease this nerve by noting that shifting focus from personal anxiety to servant leadership and divine sovereignty can help believers find a strong foundation even when the “ball bounces funky” (“Navigating Uncertainty”, 2025, 18:04). Relevance to Christian Life The overall message of the panel is profoundly relevant to the life of a Christian professional because it helps to bridge the gap between professional excellence and spiritual peace. In sports, it is easy to fall into the “I and me mode,” where the pressure of social media, career transitions, and litigation dictates a person’s internal state (“Navigating Uncertainty”, 2025, 2:39). Jamie Boggs, one of the panelists, touched on this when she went through a period of instability. Her primary role became to move from self-preservation to serving those under her. This perspective is critical for any Christian in sports, because your work should not just be about managing a scoreboard, but should instead be about being a guiding light. A bible verse that this concept connects to is Philippians 2:3-4, which Boggs brings up. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.” For the Christian sport professional, this means that even during NIL chaos, or roster turnover, their priority remains the well-being and development of student-athletes and staff (“Navigating Uncertainty”, 2025, 2:51). Challenges to Christian Life This message particularly challenges me, and my future as a Christian professional by changing my focus to reconcile with the difficult demands of a results-based industry, while keeping the compassion of Christ in mind. The panel did not shy away from the harsh reality that sports require high statistics and winning. Boggs noted that while God provides grace, the industry still demands accountability, like winning games or student-athlete goals. The challenge then lies in the execution of these difficult decisions. Graham Neff also touches on another challenge that stood out to me, regarding the balance of personal and professional life. He talked about becoming the Athletic Director at Clemson while unfortunately losing his mother to cancer (“Navigating Uncertainty”, 2025). This tragic duality of celebrating a career peak while mourning a deep personal connection, challenges the aspiring professional to maintain a fundamental focus on faith that transcends these circumstances. For me, I felt moved by this connection, because something very similar happened to me, when my father passed away, while I was transitioning into high school. Learning to stay connected to my faith during this time, and translating this to other obstacles while in my career is crucial for me. One of the most touching challenges within this panel was brought up by Jamaal Walton, when he noted, “The job is something, but Jesus is everything” (“Navigating Uncertainty”, 2025, 40:11). This statement highlights a reflection on where our identity truly lies. Are we defined by our job titles and the win-loss records, or by our status as a child walking with God? Practical Application One practical step I can take to apply these lessons is the intentional discipline of seeking clarity in the presence of uncertainty. Graham Neff suggested that while we cannot always control what happens on the job, or the future of the industry, we can seek clarity on what is right in front of us (“Navigating Uncertainty”, 2025). To me, this involves hard-coding disciplines into my calendar and into my daily schedule. On a more physical level, we can start this process, by what Jamaal Walton talked about. Simply leaving our phones in another room for a small portion of the beginning of the day, to spend this time in prayer and away from the chaos of the world. We can also work on this through surrounding ourselves with like-minded and faith-driven individuals. We must keep a circle of believers with us within such a unique field, that can help provide Christ-centered wisdom during tough times. Conclusion In summation, navigating the sport industry as a Christian requires a, “championship mindset” (“Navigating Uncertainty”, 2025, 32:20). This isn’t focused on winning, but instead on the pursuit of an attainable goal. By recognizing that God is the author of order during what comes off as chaos, we can leverage tough decisions and serve as instruments for His Kingdom, regardless of the uncertainty we are feeling. Thank you, Olivia, for participating in the Spring 2026 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 2026 Reflection Scholarship, which is open until November 20th!

In this devotional, we are going to go verse by verse through the first section of James chapter 1 and focus on the idea of standing firm in the midst of trials. Let’s dive into this passage and see what we can learn about suffering, about ourselves, and most importantly, what we can learn about God through James 1:2-18. Verse 2: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds” James tells us that trials are not potentials or maybes…they are inevitable. “When you meet trials.” Not if, but when. We are to count everything as joy. Even the moments of trial and hardship. It is easy; expected almost to count blessings as joy. Who finds it hard to be joyful about a delicious meal, or an answered prayer request? I would hope the answer would be no one. Those things are easy to be joyful about. But we are called to be joyful specifically in the moments of trial. Why? Let's look at verses 3 and 4. Verse 3-4: “for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. So why are we called to find joy in the midst of these difficult moments? So that we may be steadfast and unwavering in our faith. It isn’t only the spiritual mountain tops that grow our faith, but trials also play an important role. In my experience, enduring trials have made my faith much stronger than the mountaintop experiences. I remember going to church camp as a kid. During the week, we would have a worship service each night. As the week progressed, the services would become more and more emotional. Finally, it would be the last night of camp and we would have this emotional time of worship and a message, and at the very end the leader would do an altar call and invite us kids to really dedicate our lives to Jesus. I remember one year specifically, I was feeling so convicted that I hadn’t really been living for Jesus that I went to the leader and poured my heart out, and my eyes. That night I was convinced I would be on fire for the Lord for the rest of my life. It probably wasn’t even two weeks later, and I had already lost that fire and the desire to spend a lot of time with Jesus. I say this because while passion and excitement can be a great thing, it does not always last forever. There will be moments of hardship and trial, and we must rely on our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to provide us with the strength to not only overcome them, but to find joy in them. Furthermore, steadfast faith is not something that happens naturally. It must be practiced, tested, and tried. Picture a miner in a cave who is using his pickaxe to carve away at the rock in search of a diamond. When he finally finds that precious stone, he cannot simply take that raw stone and put it on a ring. He must first burn away the filth and the excess before using tools to shape and structure the stone. Once he has done all this, only then can the diamond fit into the mold he has created for the ring. If we are to have a faith that is steadfast and complete, we too must face and endure trials, so that we may be complete. Or think of this as a muscle. How many here enjoy training your muscles and doing exercise? Without consistent training, not only will your muscles not grow, but they will eventually atrophy and shrink. When you are lifting weights, you are literally tearing down your muscles so that they may be rebuilt stronger than before. This is how we are to view this text. Without these trials and struggles that we face, our faith can not grow, nor can it become stronger like our muscles. Rather, without these moments that force us to rely solely on God, our faith will diminish over time and atrophy. Verse 5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. At first glance, it may seem like the author is completely changing the subject from verses 3-4. However, there is definitely a sense of continuation, because trials bring a necessary season to seek wisdom from God. We often do not even realize that we need wisdom or discernment, or that we are not fully trusting God, until we are in those moments of tribulation. Moreover, we are to ask of… God. He is the ultimate source of wisdom, and he gives it generously without reproach. Reproach here means without insult or mocking. Charles Spurgeon an incredible theologian and preacher in the 1800s He once said: “We are all so ready to go to books, to go to men, to go to ceremonies, to go to anything except God…Consequently, the text does not say, ‘Let him ask books’, nor ‘ask priests’, but ‘Let him ask God. ' To whom or where are you going for wisdom? Are you going to God and asking him for wisdom, or are you seeking it elsewhere? So all we need to do to receive wisdom is ask, right? Well, there’s a little more to it than that. Let’s take a look at verses 6-8. Verse 6-8: “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. It is not simply a matter of asking for wisdom- we must ask in faith. Not only must one come in faith to God, but one must also ask in faith. Spurgeon says on this matter: “You know, dear friends, there is a way of praying for nothing, and get it.” This is an excellent summary of what James is trying to say in verses 6-8. Without the faith that God can actually grant you the very request you have come before him to make, you can expect to get nothing. James further emphasizes the idea that it makes absolutely no sense to ask God for wisdom while doubting that He can answer your prayers, when he says they are like a wave that is driven and tossed by the wind. This wave analogy is a fitting representation of the doubter. A wave of the sea is unstable, and so is the doubter (as James mentions here in verse 8). A wave of the sea is without rest, and so is the doubter. A wave of the sea is capable of great destruction, and so is the doubter. Let us not be doubters, but have assurance and faith that the God we serve is capable of giving us joy in the midst of trials, and wisdom to navigate them. Verse 9-11: “Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits.” Here James is making a very bold claim. He is stating that as much as it is appropriate for the lowly to rejoice when they are lifted up by God, so also it is appropriate (although far more difficult) for the rich to rejoice when they are brought to humiliation by trials. American theologian Richard Lenski writes on this saying: “As the poor brother forgets all his earthly poverty, so the rich brother forgets all his earthly riches. By faith in Christ the two are equals.” In these verses, James is reminding us that earthly power and riches are not the answer to our trials and struggles. Any confidence we have in wealth instead of God is not only misplaced, but doomed altogether. Wealth is fleeting, and so is the stability it offers. As the flowers and the grass in verses 10 and 11, wealth and riches will fade away and will not be solid ground on which to plant your feet in the midst of trials. Verse 12: “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him”. Trials in and of themselves are not blessings, but overcoming them brings blessings upon the one who endures. Two promises are made to those who faithfully endure their trials. The first is an inner reward of blessedness. Blessed is the same term used repeatedly in the beatitudes in Matthew 5. The word Blessed describes an inner quality of joy resting in God and an unaffectedness by external events. When we overcome temptation and hardship, we will not only become less and less affected by external circumstances, but we will become joyful in resting in God. This is exactly what James is saying in verse 2. Count it all joy, my brothers, because you have yet another opportunity to rest in God. The second promise is that we will receive the crown of life. Crown did not refer to the ornament of a ruler, but a garland or wreath given to the victor in an athletic contest. God’s reward for faithfully enduring trials is not a position of authority or royalty over others, but recognition from God for our spiritual victory. The crown is not a physical object but a spiritual privilege which gives a deeper, fuller life on earth, and an unending, joyous life in the world to come. This leads me to my next point in verse 12: Trials prepare us for our eternal dwelling, and help us let go of the fleeting pleasures this world has to offer. As followers of Christ, we are to be constantly preparing for our heavenly and eternal dwelling. It should drive every aspect of our lives. Philippians 3:20-21 says: “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Comfort and pleasure on this earth are not the goal. Hardships and suffering remind us of this and help us let go of this world’s grip on us, so we can be ready to meet our heavenly Father with joy and excitement. My grandfather was a missionary, church planter, and pastor in Brazil for over 50 years. He dedicated his life to serving the Lord and others all around the world. Just a couple of months before his 86th birthday, he was diagnosed with the cancer that would eventually take his life. In those last months, he underwent a tremendous amount of pain and suffering as the cancer had spread to his bones. When he was asked how he was doing, his response was “I feel as if I am weaning off of this world and am ready to go home”. Suffering is not a blessing, but Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life. Verse 13-16: “Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God, for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”Here we see an evident distinction between trials and temptations. You see, while God allows and might even send us trials to help us grow, mature, and become steadfast, temptations are not sent by God. In verse 13, James ensures there is no room to blame God for one’s temptations and sin. Temptation and sin are literally in opposition to God’s nature. We see this in the second half of verse 13. “For God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one.” Rather, verses 14 and 15 show us that sin begins in the human heart. We can understand these verses as if we were fishing. By a show of hands, how many of us have gone fishing before? Great, so we should be able to understand this analogy. First, an openness to temptation develops from weakness in our fallen human hearts. Then, temptation develops and lures and entices us into sin. The word luring describes the act of luring fish from their hiding places. The second word, enticing, gives us an image of enticing a fish with a juicy worm on a hook. Evil desire is then the bait that hooks the human being. Brothers and sisters, WE are to blame for our sin. You and I. Scripture does not allow us to blame God, the devil, our family lineage, our environment, or anyone else for our sin. Our sin is our fault, and ours alone. Trials can lead us to true dependence and trust in God, or they can cause us to turn our backs on Him and embrace the temptations that often result from our struggles. Temptations to be consumed with rage, a desire for revenge, or even a blatant accusation that it is all God’s fault. Trials and tribulations are opportunities to either run to Christ or to flee from him. In verse 15, we see yet another analogy being used to help us better understand the progression of Sin. Here James uses the image of childbirth to trace the development of evil desire. A conception occurs when someone surrenders their will over to lust. The conception then produces a child called sin. When sin becomes full grown, it produces death. Notice the stark contrast between the one who remains steadfast under trial and the one who allows sin to grow and develop. Verse 12 says that the one who has stood the test will receive the crown of life, while the one who allows desire to fester and sin to grow will bring forth death. Sin is literally a matter of life and death. It is the difference between a spiritual full of life and fruit, and one that is dead and barren. Verses 16-18: “Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of Lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.” V. 16 has 2 potential applications. We can apply it to the verses before, or to the verses that follow. If we apply it to the verses 13-15, then we are to take it as a warning against excusing ourselves from our responsibility for sin. However, if we are to apply this warning to verses 17-18, then the warning is against a wrong view of God’s character. Either interpretation provides truth. Let's take a look at verses 17-18. Verse 17 says: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of Lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”Now that we know that God is not responsible for human sin from verses 13-15, we see now that God is, however, the source of all good. Every kind of good has its ultimate source in God. Moreover, God’s gifts are perfect because they fully meet the recipients' needs. His gifts include not only spiritual blessings, but also the many benefits that provide for the physical and emotional needs of human beings. And if that were not enough, we have a God who gave us the ultimate gift, the gift of salvation through his Son Jesus Christ, who died, was buried, and rose again on the third day. The second part of verse 17 tells us 3 truths about God. First, he is the Father of Lights; secondly, he is without variation; and thirdly, God does not undergo “any shadow of turning”. Let's unpack these together. First, as the Father of the heavenly lights, God is the creator of the stars and the heavenly bodies. You see, James uses the language of astronomy to help us better understand God. Because when he gives us the second attribute of God: “with whom there is no variation”, this term variation or change was frequently used to describe the change in light intensity between the sun and the moon. The amount of sunlight we see depends entirely on the time of day. In the middle of the day, there is an abundance of light; by the time the sun sets, the light is much dimmer, and it disappears altogether during the night. This is not true of God. His character and the light of his truth remain constant and unchanging. Thirdly, God does not undergo any “shadow of turning”. This terminology also originates from astronomy, describing moving heavenly bodies that produce constantly changing shadows on earth. God’s purposes, however, do not have such variation or shifting. The movements of the sun, earth, and the clouds regularly cause changes in light and shadows throughout the day. Meanwhile, God’s character is always true, constant, unchanging, reliable, good, and faithful. Verse 18: “Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”“By his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth.” James understood that the gift of salvation was given by God, and not earned or achieved by the work or obedience of man. It is of HIS OWN WILL that HE brought us forth for salvation. And how did he bring us into this new life? By the word of truth. John 1:1 tells us that “In the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the Word was God.” It goes on to say in verse 4, “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.” Jesus Christ, the Word of truth, is the means by which we are brought to salvation. There is no other alternative; it is Him, the word of truth alone. And what is the result of this new life and salvation in Christ? “That we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.” This is not just for the Jewish Christians James is writing to. This is true for you and me. Through Jesus Christ, you and I can become sons and daughters, heirs and firstfruits. What a gift we have received. Before I close, I want to remind us of the many truths we have looked at today and challenge you all to take these truths and hide them in your hearts. First, may we be humble like James, who ultimately desired to be identified as a servant and follower of Christ above all else, even when he had more excuse than most to exalt himself and claim status as the brother of Christ. Secondly, may we be encouraged to run into the open arms of Jesus when we face pain, suffering, hardship, and temptation, and find joy in his embrace during the storms. May we view these moments of trial as opportunities. Opportunities to grow stronger in our faith and grow closer to our Lord and Savior. Thirdly, let us remind ourselves that our earthly dwelling is merely temporary. My friends, the time is coming when we will leave this world and go on to the next, and we must live this life with that in mind. Let us rejoice in the fact that the temporary pains and afflictions of this world are only making our heavenly home all the more inviting. We can celebrate that the things we are facing right now we will never have to face again, for all of eternity in heaven. Lastly, and most importantly, let us be reminded of the God we serve. We serve the author and giver of wisdom, we serve the one who gives the crown of life, the giver of every good gift, and most importantly, we serve a God who has chosen of His own will to bring us forth into salvation through his son Jesus Christ, who died, and rose to life on the third day, that we might be united with him for all of eternity. Amen? Thanks for reading this month's blog post. If you're interested in learning more about Uncommon Sports Group or getting connected, click here.

The USG Operations Team processes donations. This year’s Clean Out For A Cause travel season took us from Phoenix and Scottsdale to El Paso, Chicago, and Cincinnati. Each stop provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships, learn from some of the sports industry’s most respected servant leaders, and share how Clean Out For A Cause is creating opportunities throughout the industry. Our travels began close to home in Arizona, where we participated in the NFL Safety Meetings with the Professional Football Equipment Managers Society. From there, I traveled to El Paso, Texas, to meet with CFEMS and enjoy an El Paso Chihuahuas baseball game. The next stop was Chicago for the NBA Equipment Managers Association meeting at Harry Caray’s Chicago Sports Museum. We concluded the travel season in Cincinnati at the Athletic Equipment Managers Association Convention, where we also attended a Cincinnati Reds game and enjoyed a boat cruise together. The games and activities were memorable, but the greatest value of these trips was found in the conversations, relationships, and opportunities to learn from those who serve the sports industry every day. Learning From the Industry’s Servant Leaders Throughout these meetings, we connected with hundreds of equipment managers serving athletes, coaches, and organizations across professional and collegiate sports. Equipment managers often work behind the scenes, but their leadership and influence reach every part of an athletic organization. They care for their athletes, manage complex operations, solve problems, mentor younger professionals, and regularly step forward to serve without seeking recognition. Spending time with these leaders allowed us to listen, learn, and better understand how Clean Out For A Cause can continue serving the industry. These conversations were not simply about securing donations. They were about building genuine relationships with people who share a desire to steward their resources well and create opportunities for others. Hundreds of donors throughout the sports industry have contributed to the more than one million pounds of apparel, footwear, and equipment collected since Clean Out For A Cause began. Reaching that milestone would not have been possible without the trust, generosity, and servant leadership of equipment managers and athletic organizations across the country. Why I Love Working With Equipment Managers One of the greatest privileges of my role is working with equipment managers. I have developed personal relationships with so many people in this profession, and the way they care for others is unlike anything I have experienced elsewhere in the sports industry. Their support extends far beyond the apparel, footwear, and equipment they donate. They genuinely care about the mission of Clean Out For A Cause, the people who benefit from it, and the work we are accomplishing together. Many have also taken the time to care for me personally and ask about my family. Those relationships have become one of the most meaningful parts of this work. Equipment managers are natural servant leaders. They consistently work behind the scenes to meet the needs of others, often without recognition or attention. That same spirit is reflected in the way they support our cause, encourage my family and me, and welcome us into their professional community. This is why I love working with equipment managers. The donations are incredibly important, but the relationships are what make this work so special. I am grateful not only for what they give, but also for who they are and for the privilege of calling so many of them friends. Making It Easy to Create an Impact One of the most exciting parts of these meetings was sharing just how easy it is to participate in Clean Out For A Cause. Through our Locker Room Box Program, equipment managers can simply request the boxes, bags, and prepaid shipping labels they need. We provide a reliable and trustworthy service that makes it easy for organizations to move surplus inventory out of their facilities and put those resources toward a greater purpose. We understand that equipment managers already carry tremendous responsibilities. Our goal is to remove as many obstacles as possible and provide a simple, dependable donation process that works with their schedules and operations. The conversations we had during these meetings will help us continue improving that service. As more organizations participate, Clean Out For A Cause can collect more usable gear, strengthen its partnerships, and create additional opportunities for people throughout the sports industry. The impact follows a powerful cycle: relationships build trust, trust creates partnerships, partnerships lead to donations, and those donations create opportunities for others. Seeing the Impact in the Room One of the most encouraging parts of these gatherings was seeing so many people who have directly benefited from Uncommon Sports Group programs. Some have participated in the USG Academy. Others have attended Christians Working in Sports, joined one of our book or Bible studies, or participated in multiple USG programs. Seeing these individuals now active in the sports industry was a visible reminder that the impact of every donation goes far beyond the apparel or equipment being collected. The funds generated through Clean Out For A Cause help USG provide scholarships, mission trips, professional development, spiritual formation, mentoring, and community for emerging sports professionals. These experiences help participants grow personally, professionally, and spiritually as they prepare to serve and lead within the industry. For our donors, this means their surplus gear is doing more than leaving a locker room. It is helping develop the next generation of servant leaders. Faith, Discipleship, and Community Some of the most meaningful moments of the travel season came through our time with the Fellowship of Equipment Managers during the AEMA Convention in Cincinnati. Preston Rogers and I had the privilege of leading times of prayer, praise, and biblical study with equipment managers from across the country. Our time in Romans and our expository study of discipleship in Ephesians were well received, encouraging everyone in the room to pursue their faith in community rather than feeling alone in their walk with Christ within the sports industry. The Fellowship of Equipment Managers reminds believers that they are part of a larger community of people seeking to follow Christ and serve others through their work. Those moments reinforced the mission of Uncommon Sports Group: to encourage, connect, and equip the sports industry. We want sports professionals to be encouraged in their calling, connected to a community, and equipped to serve Christ and others wherever God has placed them. The fellowship we experienced in Cincinnati demonstrated why that mission matters. More Than a Donation Program Clean Out For A Cause continues to grow because servant leaders throughout the sports industry are willing to share their knowledge, open doors, build relationships, and generously use the resources entrusted to them. These meetings gave us the opportunity to thank many of the people who have made the program successful, meet potential new partners, reconnect with longtime donors, and learn how we can better serve the industry moving forward. I returned from each trip with a deeper appreciation for the equipment management profession and the people who serve within it. I was also reminded that Clean Out For A Cause is much more than a donation program. It is a relationship-driven ministry that connects generosity with opportunity. To PFEMS, CFEMS, NBAEMA, AEMA, the Fellowship of Equipment Managers, and every Clean Out For A Cause donor: thank you for welcoming us, trusting us, sharing your knowledge, and continuing to believe in the mission. More than one million pounds have already been collected, but the greatest impact cannot be measured by weight alone. It is seen in the people who have been encouraged, connected, equipped, and given opportunities to grow through the generosity of the sports industry. The innovative Clean Out For A Cause® operation and the hundreds of donors who consistently provide used and excess sports gear to the initiative are essential in providing the impact that Uncommon Sports Group has seen in hundreds of lives throughout the college and pro sports industry. Uncommon Sports Group and Clean Out For A Cause® sincerely thank you for being willing to support our cause! If you want to support Uncommon Sports Group's mission to develop Christ-centered future leaders of the sport industry, request a free Clean Out For A Cause® donation box and shipping label here. Or, shop at one of our e-commerce sites here! If you'd like to connect with USG, or have questions about our organization or programs, please contact us. We'd love to hear from you.

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.