Jeff Leatherman

What is the best thing about FCA?
The best thing about FCA is their full commitment to the sports programs on our school campuses. They are not only interested in investing in the players but the coaches as well. They understand that if they can help the coaches attain a healthy personal and spiritual life that they will in turn help the students do the same. It’s a win, win!

Why are you involved in FCA?
The reasons I am involved in FCA are simple.
A. I believe in the ministry and the people that make it up.
B. I have a heart for our students.
C. I love any opportunity to give back to our coaches and community.

What has your experience/role been as a Team Chaplain?
My experience as a team chaplain has been nothing less than phenomenal! I have enjoyed the conversations that take place on and off the field with the coaches and players. There are so many ways to influence the lives of these players. I have had the opportunity to help a player and his single mom move into a new home and stand in prayer with a player who needed a green card to stay in the states. (and he got it!) God is good. The stories and relationships continue to mount. Being a team chaplain has allowed me to be involved in the players lives off the field as well. One of the most rewarding things I have ever done in ministry!

What is the best spiritual advice you’ve heard/read?
I read an inspiring thought in David Platt’s book, “Radical” – “We are, by nature, receivers. Even if we have a desire to learn God’s Word, we still listen from a default self-centered mind-set that is always asking, What can I get out of this? What if we changed the question whenever we gathered to learn God’s Word? What if we began to think, How can I listen to his Word so that I am equipped to teach this Word to others?”

Jesus is awesome because . . .
Jesus is awesome because of His vast, unconditional love that He has for everyone. We all got singled out when He chose to give His life!

Can you give us a competition tip?
Endurance – condition yourself no matter what the sport to play at a high level for an extended period of time. All athletes who condition themselves this way have an edge over their opponent.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I have been married for 14 years to my beautiful wife Stacey. We have three kids – Madison (10), Ethan (8), and Conner (5). I have an offensive love for Alabama Football – “Roll Tide Roll”! The sport that I am most educated in is basketball.