Putting Christ First in Youth Sports This Summer

Summer brings longer days, packed schedules, and plenty of time on the field. For many families, youth sports are in full swing—from early morning practices to weekend tournaments. It’s a season full of excitement, challenge, and opportunity. But in the midst of the hustle, it’s easy to let faith take a backseat.

As Christian parents and families involved in sports, we’re called to something more than chasing wins or building résumés. Our greatest goal isn’t to raise champions—it’s to raise disciples of Christ who live out their faith in every arena of life, including the athletic one.

Faith in the Fast Lane: The Challenge of Summer Sports

Summer sports can easily become all-consuming. Travel teams, weekend games, and weeknight practices leave little time for rest—let alone intentional spiritual growth. But it’s precisely in these busy moments that faith has the potential to grow strongest.

When we keep Jesus at the center, sports transform from a distraction into a discipleship tool.

Every practice becomes a training ground not just for skill, but for spiritual character. Every game becomes a platform—not just to compete, but to reflect Christ. And every challenge becomes a chance to grow in humility, perseverance, and dependence on God.

Four Ways to Keep Christ First in Sports This Summer

If you’re looking to intentionally disciple your children while embracing the excitement of youth athletics, here are a few simple but powerful ways to keep Christ at the center:

1. Pray Together Before and After Games

Make prayer a consistent part of your family’s sports rhythm. Gather in the car before games or pause as a family afterward to thank God, no matter the outcome. It’s a reminder that God cares more about our hearts than the scoreboard.

2. Celebrate Character Over Results

Wins and stats are temporary—but Christlike character lasts a lifetime. Teach your kids to value integrity, teamwork, and humility. Celebrate the teammate who encourages others or shows grace in defeat just as much as the one who scores the most points.

3. Model Christlike Behavior as a Parent

Your attitude in the stands speaks volumes. Whether it’s a ref’s call you disagree with or a tough loss, choose patience, encouragement, and grace. Let your behavior reflect the fruit of the Spirit—and watch how your kids take note.

4. Create a Family Sports Mission Statement

What if your family had a shared vision for why you do sports? Take time to write a mission statement grounded in Scripture—something like: "Our family uses sports to glorify God, grow in character, and share the love of Christ with others." Revisit it often and let it guide your sports decisions.

This Summer, Let Sports Be More Than a Game

Youth sports are a gift. They teach discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. But even more, they can be a platform for spiritual growth—if we’re intentional.

So this summer, don’t just chase trophies. Chase truth. Don’t just build skill. Build faith. Don’t just run the race—run it in a way that honors Christ (1 Corinthians 9:24).

Reflection Question:

How is your family putting Christ first this season—in both sports and life?

Let this be a summer your family remembers not just for the games played—but for the faith deepened, the character built, and the Savior glorified.

Looking for more resources on faith and sports?
Stay connected with Arapahoe County FCA for devotionals, events, and opportunities to grow as a family rooted in Christ.