By Madison canes, Staff Writer
Bringing faith and athletics together, Fellowship of Christian Athletes is creating a space where student-athletes can connect over shared values, support each other and grow in both their sport and spiritual life.
Although FCA has existed on campus in the past, it hasn’t been active for several years. But the new chapter has now been established with new leadership: Junior Emma Lintecum as president, junior Thomas Munn as treasurer, and both Ian Lecki, director of residence life, and Deacon Jeff Jacobs, associate campus minister, as advisors.
Lintecum said she is excited to be leading FCA.
“I had a spiritual community through a club in high school called Young Life, and the people there guided me to Christ,” Lintecum said. “I want to help provide a community like that for other people, where people are supporting each other to grow.”
Munn said he wants athletes to come together and be able to share their beliefs.
“Athletes and students often face unique challenges when trying to balance their faith with the pressures around them,” Munn said. “I believe FCA can be a place where people feel supported, understood and strengthened, both spiritually and personally.
FCA will have events geared toward helping students grow in their faith. but it will also have events that promote community building between students, athletes, faculty and coaches from various backgrounds, Munn said. All students are welcome to attend meetings, regardless of athletic background or religion.
FCA’s first event is from 3 to 6 p.m. tonight at Founders Plaza and will serve as a send off of the school year and an re-introduction to FCA on campus. There will be several yard games and free food including hot dogs, chips and cookies.
FCA plans on partnering with other organizations throughout next year. The group has already been partnering with Student Life to plan the fall Color Run. Other collaborative events that are underway will be announced over summer break and early next semester. Students can follow along with FCA events on Instagram @newmanufca
Joining FCA and becoming a member is as simple as just showing up to the meetings. There’s no cost, required attendance or any formal sign-up process.
Munn said he is excited to get people involved in FCA.
“Show up, get connected, and be part of the FCA community,” Munn said. “It offers students a strong community where they can grow in their faith and build friendships across different sports, majors, and interests.”
PHOTO: Courtesy, Newman Today
