Local Area FCA Blog

Game Day Week 3

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 22:04:35 GMT

Advance into the Storm

Advance Into the Storm

In a storm, cattle scatter. Bison advance.

Every coach faces storms — adversity, loss, conflict, failure, things beyond our control. In those moments we're forced to ask: Who am I? What do I believe? Why do I coach?

When the storm comes, your WHY is your anchor.

We're not just building football players. We're shaping character, discipline, courage, resilience, leadership. But we can't lead players through adversity if we're unsure of our own purpose.

A team's response to a storm mirrors the conviction of its leaders.

So know your WHY. Know your people. Know who you fight for.

Cattle run from the storm. Bison turn into it.

Don't scatter. Stand together. Trust your purpose. Lead with conviction.

Advance.

Scripture

Faith and Wisdom

My friends, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your way, for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to endure. Make sure that your endurance carries you all the way without failing, so that you may be perfect and complete lacking nothing!

Overview of James 1:1-5

This passage offers insights into the nature of trials and faith.

Author — James identifies himself as a servant of God and Jesus Christ, writing to the twelve tribes scattered abroad.
Joy in Trials — Believers are encouraged to count it all joy when facing various trials, as these tests produce perseverance.
Wisdom from God — Those lacking wisdom are urged to ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.
Blessing of Perseverance — The passage states that blessed is the one who perseveres under trial, as they will receive the crown of life promised by God.
Faith and Doubt — It warns against doubting when asking for wisdom, as a doubter is like a wave of the sea, unstable and driven by the wind

"Tonight, encourage your players to play fearlessly—trusting the skill God has given them and the training you've provided. Coach with joy, and let your players compete with the same freedom, regardless of outcome. Despite the tragedies our country and communities face, we're grateful for the privilege of lacing up our cleats and playing this great game of football."

GAME DAY DEVO WEEK 2

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 23:22:36 GMT

Cultivating Culture

Week Two Game Day Devotional:

Game Day Thought

Practice is where culture gets planted. Game day is where it gets seen.

Everything you've built over the last two weeks — how your guys respond to adversity, how they treat each other, whether they play for themselves or for the man next to them — gets tested today in front of people who aren't in your building on Tuesday. You don't get to explain your culture today. You only get to watch it show up. Jesus said it plainly: a tree doesn't produce fruit under pressure that it wasn't already growing. If it's a good tree, good fruit comes out even when the officials miss a call, even when a drive stalls, even when the other sideline is chirping. If the roots aren't there, today will find that out too.

Scripture

True and False Prophets

¹⁵ “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. ¹⁶ By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. Matthew 7:15-20

For the Coach — Right Before Kickoff

You've said your piece all week. Today isn't for more instruction — it's for trust. Trust the roots you've watered. Trust the fruit will show up, because it's already growing in them.

Watch for it in the moments that don't show up on the stat sheet: who picks a teammate up after a drop, who sprints to the ball on defense in the fourth quarter, who stays composed after a bad call. That's your culture talking. Let it play.

And watch yourself too — your response to adversity on the sideline is fruit your team is watching in real time.

For Your Team — A Pregame Word

Consider passing this along in the locker room or on the bus:

"Today isn't about proving something new. It's about showing what's already true about this team. Good fruit doesn't panic when the pressure's on — it just does what it's been growing to do. Play like the tree you've been building in practice. Let your fruit talk today."

A Question to Carry Into the Game

When adversity hits today — and it will — what fruit do you want your team, and you, to produce?

Pregame Prayer

Lord, we don't play today to become something — we play to reveal what You've already been growing in us. Steady our nerves, sharpen our focus, and let whatever fruit comes out of this team today be good: composed under pressure, unified in adversity, playing for each other. Protect every player on both sidelines from injury. Whatever the scoreboard says, let this team's fruit point to something bigger than the game. Amen.

Game Day Devo Week 1 Bear Fruit

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 04:20:51 GMT

Week One Devotional: Bear Fruit

Scripture

"This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." — John 15:8 (NIV)

Go Deeper

Before you ask your players to trust a process, ask yourself the same question: are you staying connected to the vine, or are you trying to produce fruit on your own strength?

A long season will test that. There will be officiating calls that make your blood boil, parents who question your play-calling, a locker room that doesn't click right away, a gut-punch loss you didn't see coming. None of that is new to coaching. What's new is Week One — a fresh chance to decide where your strength comes from before the season demands an answer.

Staying connected doesn't mean less intensity. It means your intensity is rooted in something that outlasts a scoreboard.

For Your Team

Consider opening this verse up with your players this week — not as a sermon, but as a framework for the season:

Fruit takes time. Nobody sees a harvest in Week One. The habits you build now — how you finish sprints, how you talk to teammates when you're gassed, how you respond to correction — are the roots. The fruit shows up later, maybe in November, maybe next year.
Fruit is evidence, not effort. A stressed-out branch doesn't force an apple into existence. Staying connected — showing up, doing the work, trusting the process, trusting each other — is what produces something real. Chasing the fruit itself (the stat line, the ranking, the scholarship) without staying rooted in the daily work is a fast way to burn out.
Fruit glorifies the vine, not the branch. The verse doesn't end at "bear much fruit" — it ends with "showing yourselves to be my disciples." Ask your guys: who gets the credit when this team does something special? A program that plays for something bigger than itself tends to play free.

A Question to Sit With

What's one root you need to strengthen this week — not a stat, not a scheme, but a daily habit or connection — so that the fruit later in the season is real and not forced?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for another season and another team to lead. Help me stay connected to You before I try to produce anything on my own strength. Give me patience for the process, humility in the wins, and steadiness in the losses. Let whatever fruit comes from this season — on the field and in these young men's lives — point back to You. Amen.

Reflecting and Applying Our Journey Through the Pyramid of Success

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 29 May 2024 15:45:00 GMT

As we conclude our journey through John Wooden's Pyramid of Success, this week is dedicated to reflection and application. It's a time to consider how each principle we've explored can be lived out in alignment with our Christian faith, especially within the context of coaching. Let's take this opportunity to look back on what we've learned and set intentions for how we will carry these lessons forward.

Wooden's Wisdom:

John Wooden's approach to success was not just about winning games but about building character and leading a life of purpose. As we reflect on his teachings, let's consider how each principle—from Industriousness to Faith and Sincerity—can guide us not only in our coaching but in our personal growth and spiritual journey.

God's Reflection:

"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!'" (Matthew 25:21, CSB)
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, CSB)

These scriptures remind us of the rewards that come from faithful service and the strength we find in God's presence, encouraging us to lead with courage and conviction.

Application:

As we reflect on our journey through the Pyramid of Success, let's identify the principles that have challenged us the most and consider why. How can we address these challenges moving forward? Let's set concrete goals for integrating these values into our coaching, ensuring that our actions reflect our faith and the lessons we've learned.

Reflection Questions:

Which of Wooden's principles have I found most challenging to integrate into my coaching? Why?
How will I commit to applying these principles and my faith in my future coaching endeavors?

Closing:

As we close this chapter, let's carry forward the wisdom and insights we've gained, committed to applying John Wooden's principles and our Christian faith in all aspects of our coaching and lives. Here's to a future of continued growth, leadership, and success, both on and off the field.

Living with Faith and Sincerity

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 22 May 2024 15:45:00 GMT

As we continue our journey, this week we focus on the virtues of Faith and Sincerity. These principles are not only at the heart of John Wooden's philosophy but also deeply entrenched in Christian values. They guide us to live and lead with authenticity, reflecting our true beliefs and convictions in every action.

Wooden's Wisdom:

John Wooden believed in the power of sincerity in one's beliefs and actions, anchored by a deep-seated faith. He taught that our approach to life, as well as coaching, should be underpinned by these values, ensuring that our external actions reflect our internal convictions.

God's Reflection:

"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1, CSB)
"For our boast is this: the testimony of our conscience, that we behaved in the world with simplicity and godly sincerity, not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God, and supremely so toward you." (2 Corinthians 1:12, CSB)

These scriptures remind us of the importance of living out our faith with sincerity, trusting in God's plan even when the path is not visible, and conducting ourselves with integrity and authenticity.

Application:

Let’s consider how our faith informs our sincerity and authenticity in our roles. How can we ensure that our coaching practice is a true reflection of our beliefs and values? In what ways can we more fully integrate our faith into our interactions and decisions, to serve as a model of genuine leadership?

Reflection Questions:

How does my faith inform my sincerity and authenticity as a coach?
In what ways can I more fully integrate my faith into my coaching practice?

As we reflect on these questions, let's challenge ourselves to live and lead with unwavering faith and sincerity, demonstrating the profound impact of authentic leadership on those we guide and influence.

Closing:

May the virtues of Faith and Sincerity illuminate our path, inspiring us to lead with conviction and authenticity. Here's to a week of deep reflection and meaningful integration of these principles into our coaching and our lives.

Embracing Resourcefulness, Fight, and Patience

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 15 May 2024 15:30:01 GMT

Week 10! We've explored various virtues that contribute to both personal growth and team success. This week, we’re spotlighting Resourcefulness, Fight, and Patience—qualities that not only propel us toward success but also resonate deeply with the Christian journey of navigating faith through trials.

Wooden's Wisdom:

John Wooden taught the value of being resourceful in overcoming obstacles, the importance of fighting through adversity with determination, and the virtue of patience in achieving our goals. These qualities are essential in developing not just a winning team but individuals of strong character and resilience.

God's Reflection:

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7, CSB)
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:2-4, CSB)

These passages encourage me to face challenges with courage and perseverance, reminding us that trials refine our character and strengthen our faith.

Application:

Let’s reflect on how we've demonstrated resourcefulness in navigating coaching challenges and how patience has guided us through difficult times. How can we continue to fight through adversity, drawing inspiration from biblical examples of perseverance and faith?

Reflection Questions:

How have I demonstrated resourcefulness and patience in my coaching challenges?
What biblical examples of perseverance can inspire me to maintain faith during trials?

As we contemplate these questions, let's strive to embody these virtues in our coaching, our leadership, and our lives, understanding that true success comes from overcoming challenges with grace, determination, and faith.

Closing:

May the qualities of Resourcefulness, Fight, and Patience guide us as we move forward, inspired by Wooden's wisdom and the profound examples of faith and perseverance found in Scripture. Here's to growing stronger together, in character and in spirit.

Upholding Honesty, Integrity, and Reliability

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 08 May 2024 15:15:00 GMT

This week, we dive into the foundational virtues of Honesty, Integrity, and Reliability. These principles are central to Wooden's philosophy and are deeply rooted in biblical teachings that guide us toward truthful and ethical behavior. As we reflect on these values, let's consider how they shape our character and influence our actions both on and off the field.

Wooden's Wisdom:

John Wooden placed great emphasis on living a life marked by honesty, conducting oneself with unwavering integrity, and being a reliable figure for others to depend on. These virtues are not merely ideals but practical standards that guide our decisions, our interactions, and ultimately, our legacy.

God's Reflection:

"The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity." (Proverbs 11:3, CSB)
"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." (Luke 16:10, CSB)

These scriptures remind me of the profound impact our commitment to truth and ethical behavior has on our trustworthiness and the trust others place in us.

Application:

Take a moment to reflect on how we embody honesty, integrity, and reliability in our coaching and daily lives. Are we setting an example that inspires trust and respect? How can we further instill these values in our athletes and colleagues, ensuring that our team not only succeeds in competition but excels in character?

Reflection Questions:

How do I ensure that honesty, integrity, and reliability are at the core of my coaching?
In what ways can I model these virtues to athletes and colleagues?

Closing :

May we each strive to embody honesty, integrity, and reliability, guided by Wooden's teachings and the timeless wisdom of Scripture. Let these virtues be the hallmark of our team, distinguishing us as individuals of character and conviction.

Nurturing Ambition and Adaptability in Our Journey

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 01 May 2024 15:00:01 GMT

Wooden's Wisdom:

Wooden encouraged us to pursue our goals with a healthy ambition, to strive for excellence in all we do, while also remaining adaptable to the challenges and changes life throws our way. This balance between ambition and adaptability is key to not only achieving success but doing so in a way that honors our values and faith.

God's Reflection:

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." (James 4:10, CSB)
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (Philippians 4:12, CSB)

I am reminded of the importance of humility in our ambitions and the strength found in flexibility, trusting in God’s plan through all of life’s ups and downs.

Application:

Let’s reflect on how our ambitions can be aligned with our faith and values, ensuring that our drive for success enhances, rather than compromises, our integrity and purpose. In embracing adaptability, consider how being open to change and willing to adjust our strategies can demonstrate our trust in God’s guidance and plan for us.

Reflection Questions:

How do my ambitions align with my faith and values?
What does adaptability look like in my coaching, and how can it serve as a testament to my trust in God’s plan?

As we ponder these questions, let’s commit to being examples of ambition and adaptability, grounded in our faith and open to the guidance and opportunities God provides.

Competitive Greatness

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 14:30:01 GMT

Wooden's Wisdom:

John Wooden described Competitive Greatness as the ability to be your best when your best is required. It's about the enjoyment of a difficult challenge and the drive to meet it head-on with determination and effort. This excellence isn't just about the outcome but about the journey and the growth we experience along the way.

God's Reflection:

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31, CSB)
"An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules." (2 Timothy 2:5, CSB)

These passages remind us that our endeavors, including our athletic pursuits, should be conducted with integrity and a heart focused on glorifying God, adhering to the principles and discipline required to excel.

Application:

Let us each strive for competitive greatness by embracing challenges with enthusiasm and dedication, always aiming to give our best in every situation. This pursuit is not just about achieving victory but about honoring our commitment to excellence and the values we hold dear. As coaches and mentors, it's our responsibility to instill this value in our athletes, encouraging them to see their efforts as a reflection of their character and a form of worship.

Reflection Questions:

How does striving for competitive greatness reflect my commitment to excellence as a form of worship?
In what ways can I instill this value in my athletes?

As we ponder these questions, let's commit to embodying the essence of competitive greatness, not only in our athletic endeavors but in all aspects of our lives, as a true reflection of our dedication to growth, excellence, and faith.

Team Spirit, Poise, and Confidence

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 15:00:01 GMT

Wooden's Wisdom:

Wooden taught us that the success of the team comes before the individual. He believed in the collective spirit that unites us, the steadiness that allows us to face challenges with grace, and the confidence that propels us to achieve greatness. These principles are not just strategies for winning games but are essential for building a life of integrity and purpose.

God's Reflection:

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging." (Psalm 46:1-3, CSB)
"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." (Hebrews 10:35-36, CSB)

These scriptures remind us of the unwavering support we have in God, empowering us to face any challenge with confidence and poise, anchored in our faith.

Application :

Let's strive to foster a stronger sense of team spirit by supporting one another, celebrating our collective achievements, and working together towards our common goals. In moments of pressure, let us remember to maintain our poise, drawing on our faith and the calm assurance it brings. And let's cultivate confidence not just in our own abilities but in the strength we have through unity and belief in one another.

Reflection Questions:

How can I foster a stronger sense of team spirit grounded in faith?
What strategies can I employ to maintain poise and confidence in challenging situations?

As we reflect on these questions, let us commit to embodying these virtues, inspired by Wooden's wisdom and the teachings of Scripture, to build not only a successful team but a resilient and unified community.

Enhancing Performance through Intentness, Condition, and Skill

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Wooden's Wisdom:

John Wooden championed the power of focus, the importance of being in top physical and mental condition, and the relentless pursuit of skill development. Intentness keeps us steadfast on our goals, Condition prepares us to face challenges with resilience, and Skill ensures we are equipped to perform at our best. Together, these qualities form the foundation of not just a successful athlete, but a well-rounded individual.

God's Reflection:

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable." (1 Corinthians 9:24-27, CSB)
"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13, CSB)

These passages remind us of the commitment required to pursue our goals and the strength we find in faith to overcome obstacles.

Application:

Let us model intentness by setting clear, achievable goals for ourselves and our team, demonstrating the discipline required to pursue these objectives with unwavering focus. In terms of condition, prioritize both physical and mental well-being, ensuring we are prepared to meet the demands of our sport and life. And for skill, commit to continuous improvement, seeking every opportunity to learn and grow.

Reflection Questions:

How do I model intentness and condition to those I coach?
What steps am I taking to continuously improve my coaching skills?

As we ponder these questions, let's challenge ourselves to embody these virtues, setting a positive example for our athletes and all those we influence.

Friendship, Cooperation, and Loyalty

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Wooden's Wisdom:

John Wooden placed immense value on mutual respect and camaraderie. He believed that true victory lies not just in the score at the end of the game but in the bonds we forge and the respect we earn. Friendship paves the way for genuine connections, Cooperation binds us towards our common goals, and Loyalty ensures we stand by each other, no matter the challenges.

God’s Reflection:

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, CSB)
"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." (Proverbs 17:17, CSB)

These passages remind us of the strength found in unity and the importance of being there for one another, in good times and bad.

Application:

Let's embody these teachings in our daily practices and interactions. Show genuine care and support for your teammates. Be the friend who lifts others up, the team member who collaborates with enthusiasm, and the person who remains steadfast in loyalty. In doing so, we not only become better athletes but better individuals.

Reflection Questions:

How do I cultivate an environment of friendship and cooperation in my team?
In what ways do I demonstrate loyalty to my athletes and to God?

Together, we can build a team that not only aims for success in the game but also embodies the true essence of victory in life.

Let's Dive Into Industriousness and Enthusiasm!

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Wooden's Wisdom

Wooden put Industriousness and Enthusiasm right at the start of his famous Pyramid. Why? Because he knew that to achieve anything great, you have to put in the work and love the grind. It's like he's speaking our language, right? This totally lines up with the Christian take on giving your all as if you're doing it for the Lord. It's not just about working hard; it's about loving the process and seeing the value in every step.

God's Foundation

Proverbs 13:4 (CSB): "The slacker craves, yet has nothing, but the diligent is fully satisfied."
Romans 12:11 (CSB): "Do not lack diligence; be fervent in spirit; serve the Lord."

These verses are like a one-two punch combo reminding us to keep pushing and keep our heart in it for what we do, all in service to glorify God. It's about making every day count and putting that heart and soul into our efforts.

Application

Now, how do we take this mix of Wooden's wisdom and our faith and make it play out in our daily grind? Whether it's coaching, teaching, or just being awesome human beings, it's about setting that example of going all-in and keeping the enthusiasm burning bright. It's what makes people sit up and take notice, and it's how we inspire those around us to aim higher.

Reflection Questions

How does my work ethic shine a light on my faith?
How can I crank up the enthusiasm to motivate and inspire everyone around me?

Why Wooden's Wisdom: To Talk About Faith

jdow@fca.org (Jenny Dow) — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Wooden's Wisdom

If you are not familiar with John Wooden: He was an amazing coach who believed success isn't about the scoreboard but about knowing you've given your all to become the best you can be. He said, "Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable." This idea in Wooden is formed by what we believe as Christians—using what God gave us to the fullest, and living in a way that makes Him proud.

God's Foundation

Colossians 3:23-24 (CSB): "Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people, knowing that you will receive the inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."
2 Timothy 1:7 (CSB): "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment."

These verses remind us that our hard work, dedication, and the way we lead our teams should all be for God's glory. It's about serving Him through our talents and passions, not just chasing after personal accolades.

Application

Let's think about how we can bring this mindset into our classrooms and teams. FCA aims to show us how sports and faith can mix to create something truly special. We're part of that blend—teaching and coaching with purpose, and inspiring our students and athletes to do the same.

Reflection Questions

How can Wooden's take on success motivate us to shine God's light through our talents?
How does our teaching and coaching reflect our faith in action?

Local Area FCA Blog

Game Day Week 3

Advance into the Storm

Overview of James 1:1-5

GAME DAY DEVO WEEK 2

Cultivating Culture

Week Two Game Day Devotional:

Game Day Thought

Scripture

True and False Prophets

For the Coach — Right Before Kickoff

For Your Team — A Pregame Word

A Question to Carry Into the Game

﻿ Pregame Prayer

Game Day Devo Week 1 Bear Fruit

Reflecting and Applying Our Journey Through the Pyramid of Success

Living with Faith and Sincerity

Embracing Resourcefulness, Fight, and Patience

Upholding Honesty, Integrity, and Reliability

Nurturing Ambition and Adaptability in Our Journey

Competitive Greatness

Team Spirit, Poise, and Confidence

Enhancing Performance through Intentness, Condition, and Skill

Friendship, Cooperation, and Loyalty

Let's Dive Into Industriousness and Enthusiasm!

Why Wooden's Wisdom: To Talk About Faith

Pregame Prayer