Cedarville Magazine Summer 2017

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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, ’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, . ’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.