Answering God's Call

Do you ever wonder why you coach? Ever wonder what drives you to step onto the field, court or pitch day after day, guiding young athletes toward their goals?

For me, coaching isn’t just a profession, it’s a calling, a purpose that’s deeply rooted in my heart. As a child, I fell in love with soccer. The thrill of the game, the camaraderie of the team and the joy of scoring that winning goal — it all ignited a passion within me. Yet, my journey as an athlete wasn’t without its challenges. In primary school, I was selected for the school soccer team, but I rarely got a chance to play. The feeling of being overlooked, of thinking I wasn’t good enough, stuck with me.

But life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths. As I grew older and had children of my own, my love for soccer found a new purpose. It wasn’t about reliving my own dreams; it was about imparting knowledge, instilling values and offering opportunities to young athletes.

In 2 Timothy 1:9, the Bible reminds us of God’s purpose and grace: “He has saved us and called us to a holy life — not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace.” This verse resonates with my coaching journey in a profound way. Coaching isn’t about our own accomplishments or the recognition we receive. It’s a calling — a divine purpose. Just as God has called us to live a holy life, I believe He has called me to guide and mentor young athletes. It’s a calling that predates our own understanding, as the verse reminds us that God’s grace was given to us before the beginning of time.

So, why do I coach? I coach because it’s a purpose greater than myself. I coach because it’s a way to answer God’s call, to make a positive impact on the lives of the next generation and to ensure that no young athlete feels overlooked or unworthy, as I once did.

As you reflect on your own coaching journey, consider the deeper purpose behind it. Perhaps, like me, you’ll find that coaching is not just a profession; it’s a divine calling, a way to live out God’s purpose and grace in your own unique way.