The Fellowship of Christian Athletes is attempting to reestablish the group on campus again.
FCA is a faith-based, interdenominational, nonprofit organization. Their mission is “to present to coaches and athletes, and all whom they influence, the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relationships and in the fellowship of the church, ” according to its website, fca.org.
OCU’s chapter of FCA has existed since 2004 as a student organization where athletes can unite in worship and support, but numbers have dwindled since its formation.
Travon Smith, wrestler and marketing senior, is president of FCA and one of the students working to establish it on campus again.
FCA represents an opportunity for Smith and like-minded students to share their passion for faith and athletics, he said.
“It’s known for athletes, but it’s open to everyone,” Smith said. “It’s a time when we come together to have games, food and fellowship. It’s a way to spread our faith through a common passion, which is sports.”
Smith said it is his mission to help FCA have a larger presence on campus, and he wants to create an atmosphere of awareness, appeal and longevity that will result in FCA maintaining a constant presence at OCU.
“It was my idea, but I can’t take credit for it,” Smith said. “Multiple other students and teammates came up to me, many of whom were here my freshman year when it was going strong. We just felt like maybe we were the ones who need to step up so we could leave something that others could enjoy. You don’t have to be a Christian or an athlete. We want to welcome all and share our love.”
FCA has increased its visibility and might be paced to make a comeback, said Joe Lytle, mass communications sophomore.
“I’ve heard of FCA and I’ve been invited to it on campus,” Lytle said. “I’m thinking about checking it out pretty soon.”
FCA meets at 8 p.m. Tuesdays in the Leichter Room on the second floor of Henry J. Freede Wellness and Activity Center.
For more information about FCA, email Smith at tnsmith@my.okcu.edu, the faculty sponsor, Athletic Director Jim Abbott at jabbott@okcu.edu, or visit their website, fca.org.
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