Athletes in Action (AiA) is an international sports ministry organization affiliated with Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ). Founded in 1966 by Bill McCartney, a former University of Colorado football player and later head coach, the organization’s purpose is to use the influence of athletes and sports to proclaim the Christian gospel and promote spiritual development among athletes, coaches, and sports professionals.
Organizational Structure and Reach
- Parent Organization: Cru, a global evangelical Christian ministry.
- Global Presence: AiA operates in more than 70 countries, with national or regional offices coordinating activities, training, and events.
- Leadership: The organization is overseen by a board of directors within Cru; each national chapter is led by a Country Director who reports to the global leadership team.
Core Activities
- Campus Ministries: AiA maintains campus-based teams at colleges and universities where members organize worship gatherings, Bible studies, and outreach events targeting student‑athletes.
- Professional Outreach: The ministry conducts “Sports Camps” and “Athlete Ministries” that engage professional and semi‑professional athletes through fellowship groups, mentorship programs, and speaking engagements.
- International Missions: Teams travel abroad to conduct clinics, tournaments, and community service projects, integrating evangelistic messages with sporting events.
- Media and Publications: AiA produces devotional material, podcasts, and videos aimed at athletes, emphasizing themes such as integrity, teamwork, and faith.
Notable Programs and Partnerships
- Sports Camps: Annual summer camps for youth athletes that combine athletic training with spiritual teaching.
- Athlete Ambassador Program: Select athletes serve as public representatives, sharing testimonies and participating in media appearances.
- Partnerships with Sporting Bodies: AiA collaborates with various national sports federations to facilitate chapel services and faith‑based workshops during tournaments.
Historical Highlights
- 1970s–1980s: Expansion beyond the United States, establishing chapters in Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
- 1995: Launch of the “World Cup Tour,” where AiA teams traveled to multiple countries during the FIFA World Cup to host outreach events.
- 2000s: Implementation of digital resources, including an online “Faith & Sports” platform offering sermons, articles, and interactive forums.
Criticism and Controversies
Public commentary on AiA has included discussions about the blending of religion and sports, particularly regarding the appropriateness of evangelistic activities within collegiate and professional athletic settings. These discussions are reflected in broader debates about religious expression in public institutions; however, AiA maintains that its programs are voluntary and aimed at personal spiritual growth.
References
- Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ) official website, “Athletes in Action” section.
- Athletes in Action International, Annual Report (various years).
- McCartney, Bill. My Life on the Edge: A Journey of Faith and Football. (2011).
All information presented is based on publicly available, verifiable sources.
