Cedarville Magazine, Summer 2017

STRONGER BODY BY CLEM BOYD Cedarville University athletes are known for great work ethic, team spirit, and talent. They are also known for bringing Christ into every game, set, meet, and match. Coaches employ a discipleship strategy that encourages athletes to have Gospel impact through their sport. Before Cedarville women’s soccer matches, players write notes to the opposing team, sharing testimonies and offering encouragement. “After the game, players pass out the cards,” Head Coach Jonathan Meade said. “They ask the opposing player if they can pray for them.” For Hannah Velloney ’17, that was a game- changer. “The Lord gave me a deeper understanding of the Gospel’s power,” she said. “I’ve cultivated deep discipleship in my own team and encouraged believers and those searching for truth on opposing teams.” Men’s soccer held biweekly prayer times and praise and worship before home games. “They also met in discipleship groups to spur one another to good works,” noted Head Coach Brett Faro. The golf team studied Philippians 4:8, led by chaplain Nick Boucher, M.Min. ’15, M.Div. ’20. They also committed to play with praise. “We can play hard but have a thankful and humble perspective,” said Head Coach Ryan Bowen ’91 Former player Derek Hostetter ’08 led Bible studies and devotionals for men’s tennis. “One day he talked about how with God on his side, David wasn’t the underdog, and the next time he shared ways to interpret Scripture,” offered Head Coach Alan Edlund ’75. Kathy Miller, wife of Pastor Craig Miller ’79 at Grace Baptist Church in Cedarville, and team Chaplain Becky (Selden) Kuhn ’78 led women’s tennis Bible studies. “We share burdens and pray for one another as sisters in Christ,” commented Head Coach Dee Morris. Kristen Heydt ’17 grew in her faith. “We have learned how amazing Jesus and His love is,” she said. “I love my team; they have helped me grow closer to the Lord.” Cheerleading accountability partners studied a book or discussed devotionals. “Teammembers share testimonies throughout the year to gain a deeper understanding of who God made them to be,” said Head Coach Kristin (Hoovler) Miller ’00, M.Ed. ’16. Men’s basketball met in small groups twice a month for accountability and prayer. “We want players to see how the struggles and success they face in basketball are lessons for the rest of life,” said Head Coach Pat Estepp ’98, M.Ed. ’08. Women’s basketball assistant Katie Carmichael ’18 led a discussion of Seated With Christ , and Chaplain Kristi (Walker) Coe ’95 led weekly Bible studies. “We prayed before games, asking that God be glorified through our attitudes and actions,” said Head Coach Kari (Flunker) Hoffman ’05. Clem Boyd is Managing Editor of Cedarville Magazine. Cedarville Magazine | 9 Also offering an Operations Management track and generalist M.B.A. Learn more: cedarville.edu/MBAHealthAdmin Announcing plans to add a HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATIONTRACK * to the 100% online Flexible seven-week terms Accelerated completion options * Pending approval by the Ohio Department of Higher Education Cedarville M.B.A.