Why people in sports come
Competitive sports are full of moments that press on the inner life: a trade or a transfer, an injury, a season that ends early, a new role, a hard conversation in the locker room. Most programs have strength coaches, sports psychologists, and trainers. Very few have a place where a player, coach, or staff member can talk about their life with God without being evaluated.
I coached basketball from 1999 to 2011, at the high school, community college, and NCAA Division II levels. I know the travel, the scrutiny, and how little room there is inside a season to say what you're actually carrying. Spiritual direction makes that room. No performance review, no film session.
What it can help with
- Identity and purpose: becoming the best version of yourself through a deeper connection with God.
- Change: a trade, a marriage, a divorce, having children, a new role or season.
- Loss: a family member or friend, your health, or dealing with setbacks and disappointment.
- Discernment: gaining clarity and working through hard decisions.
This isn't about life after the game or transitioning out of a career. It's about meeting you where you are now.
Confidential, and built around the season
What is shared in spiritual direction stays there. Sessions run about an hour, In Person or via Zoom, and can be scheduled around practice and travel, even when games come every other day.
For coaches, chaplains, and athletic departments
Spiritual direction works alongside team chaplains and athlete-care staff, never in place of them. Inner Life can be one part of a program's wellbeing resources, for individuals, small groups, or a visit to speak with your team. The number one goal is to help any individual draw closer to God, while creating a space where they can recognize God at work in their lives.