HSU Insider

Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Town for National Leadership Camp

• By Dave Coffield
• Posted June 10, 2008 3:54 PM
• 0 Comments

Hundreds of youth flock to the Hardin-Simmons University campus each summer to have fun, equip themselves as Christian leaders, and clarify their relationship with God. That much spiritual energy is hard to ignore, in fact, it's very uplifting. Campers arrive today for an action-packed week of learning, activity, and reflection.

Students study devotional selections to begin the first day of camp

The Texas Fellowship of Christian Athletes is holding its annual summer retreat at Hardin-Simmons University for the 23rd consecutive year, as over 400 student athletes from schools across Texas come to learn and to discuss topics critical to youth. Rodney "Fastball" Ashby, camp director, said this year he wants students to "'Get Focused.' Just as they focus on the critical elements of their sport, we want them to understand the need to keep a strong focus on their spiritual life, too. We hope to teach them ultimate reliance on God's Word."

Mornings begin with contemplative time as campers spread out over the expansive front lawn for individual reflections, devotionals, and inspirational selections from the Bible. Students participate in small group sessions, called "Huddles," compete in athletic activity and competitions, attend assemblies, and share perceptions during guided discussions called "Buzz Groups." Buzz group topics included: "Date or Wait" a discussion of dating considerations, "Garbage in, Garbage Out" referring to internet culture, and "Tattoos" the culture of body art and why it may not be a positive thing. He admits that the popular perception of today's youth isn't particularly positive. "It's me, me, me. I believe our youth leadership can help change that by serving others first."

Campers are already leaders at their local schools, and attend to enhance their understanding of faith, its role in athletics, and its influence on peers. "We teach the principle of influence," says last year's director, Ben Johnson, "The influence a Christian athlete can have as a leader extends far beyond wins and losses on the field." Organizers hope that students will return home with campus leadership activities planned for the coming year, and with the knowledge that being a witness for Christ is a "duty for life."

Texas churches send strongly committed youth to the annual camp to strengthen faith and leadership amid innovative themes, outlandish costumes, and enthusiasm you have to see to believe. Organizers put their hearts, souls, and imagination into the week-long event to keep it current and edgy, as Johnson says,"This is my eighth year as camp director and I spend months on my knees in the months leading up to camp seeking His presence at camp and His plan for camp. But I've witnessed so many students returning to their campuses in the fall inspired, equipped, and enthusiastic as they confidently serve Christ greater. That keeps me coming back!"