Friday, March 6, 2009

Female Sports Chaplains

During a recent sports ministry event in the USA I was in a discussion with Jill Perry, sports chaplain at the University of Georgia. She and I were discussing who the female sports chaplains were around the country and how well they’re serving in their roles. We see this role expanding, although slowly, and having greater depth of impact as each one deepens and broadens her ministry.

Below is a short list of some who are doing particularly well, both in the USA and abroad.

Full-time chaplains (Fellowship of Christian Athletes Staff)
Marla Williams at Clemson University (South Carolina)
Courtney Wilkes at the University of West Virginia
Carly Thomas at Auburn University (Alabama)
Jill Perry at the University of Georgia

Volunteer chaplains-
Michelle Backes (Minnesota Lynx of the WNBA)
Kathy Malone (Indiana Fever of the WNBA)
Sue Crawford (Chicago Sky of the WNBA – FCA Staff)
Carlette Patterson (Sports Life Coach in Phoenix, Arizona)

Other nations –
Nett Knox – Sports Chaplaincy Australia in Sydney
Manu Traica - Romania

This is certainly not an exhaustive list, but it is representative of some who are serving well and honorably. Please pray for our sisters and encourage them as they work with the young women with whom they have immeasurable influence.

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