Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes \u2014 FCA \u2014 is a nationwide organization that brings student-athletes together through a shared commitment to faith and sports. Its overall mission is to provide a space where individuals can connect and grow in their spirituality. At Western, FCA meets every Monday night at 7 p.m. at the Health and Wellness Center, offering student-athletes an environment of community and encouragement. Over the past year, FCA at Western Oregon has seen a remarkable increase in attendance. While last year\u2019s meetings filled only about half the room, this year\u2019s gatherings have drawn such a large crowd that the group had to relocate to a larger space \u2014 and even then it was overflowing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A key figure in the success of FCA at Western is Scott Schindelar, the man who turned the idea into reality. Schindelar goes beyond just leading Monday night meetings; he regularly meets with small groups for deeper biblical discussions. Something that truly stands out about Schindelar is his genuine approach to connecting with students. He goes out of his way to greet newcomers and make sure everyone feels welcome, even those he\u2019s just met. Schindelar and his wife, Adrianne, further grow the community by hosting dinners at their home every other Sunday, where as many as 70 athletes have gathered to converse over a home-cooked meal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Schindelar believes that FCA is essential for student-athletes at Western. \u201cThese are your people,\u201d he says. \u201cThis is a group going through the highs and lows of being a student-athlete. We also tackle life\u2019s greatest questions like, \u2018Who are you and what is your purpose in life?\u2019\u201d Jessy Hart, a member of the women\u2019s track and field team, shared, \u201cFCA offers a sense of family and community, and a space to grow in your faith.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Aliyah Taba, also from women\u2019s track and field, added, \u201cFCA provides a safe space for everyone to come together and gather as followers of Christ.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their testimonials show how FCA serves as more than just a meeting; it\u2019s a place for student-athletes seeking spiritual growth and a like-minded community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Occasionally, FCA will invite a guest speaker to share their personal testimony and offer advice to the athletes in attendance. This week, the group welcomed Lauren Becraft, a junior on the women\u2019s soccer team at Western Oregon University. Lauren transferred from Montana State University Billings and embraced her new journey at Western with determination, setting a personal goal to make a name for herself by having a breakout season. Reflecting on this ambition, she shared openly with the group, explaining how she had hoped this would be her time to shine. “I came here with that intent, but things have not panned out,” she admitted, adding that her playing time hasn\u2019t been what she envisioned, and the challenges she\u2019s faced have been unexpectedly tough. At this point, it was evident that Lauren\u2019s story resonated deeply with the audience. Not many athletes are willing to talk about struggles with playing time, especially when they\u2019re in the midst of it, and her vulnerability showed the audience they weren\u2019t alone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lauren\u2019s story was more than just an acknowledgment of a tough season, it was a reminder of a deeper truth. “As I\u2019ve been going through this, I have learned an important aspect. You’re not going to find your identity in your sport; the only way you’ll be able to find your identity is through Jesus.” As her testimony drew to a close, the room began to applaud, as the athletes found comfort in her message. Moments like these highlight why guest speakers are so valuable to FCA; they remind struggling athletes that they\u2019re part of a larger community that understands their challenges and supports them in their journey. The consistent turnout and engagement at FCA meetings are a testament to the impact of this faith-centered community at Western. Athletes face a lot of pressure from the demands of their sports, but FCA is able to provide a space where they can openly share these experiences and lean on each other through faith. For those considering joining, remember to arrive early, as the space fills up quickly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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