A Character Coach’s Pregame Prayer

Many of us serving as character coaches with college basketball teams have, or certainly want to have, opportunities to pray with the team prior to the start of games. It is a profound privilege when one is enabled to do this, so we must be sure to do it wisely and well. The following questions and proposed answers are my attempt to help us all consider how to best shape this opportunity to engage the coaches and players with our Lord, and to shape their understanding of Christ-honoring sport.

 

For what should we pray?

·      First and foremost, let’s pray this competition honors God by how we play basketball.

·      Should I pray that we win the game? I would say, “No.” Rather, pray for the following factors leading to competing well:

o   Pray for an excellent performance by each and all.

o   Pray for safety for all participants.

o   Pray that players and coaches exercise self-control (and other characteristics in keeping with honorable sport).

o   Pray for good teamwork.

o   Pray for the team’s leadership.

·      Pray that everyone maintains wise and healthy perspective, whether they win or lose.

 

For whom should we pray?

·      Pray for the Coaches, by name and responsibility.

·      Pray for the Players, by name and role.

·      Pray for the Support staff, by name and responsibility.

·      Pray for the opposing team, coaches and players. Yes, I am serious.

·      Pray for the officials. They are the third team on the floor.

 

Where should we pray?

·      Pray at home before you go to the competition venue.

·      Pray in transit to the venue.

·      Pray in the locker room, if you are expressly invited.

·      Pray in the coach’s office, if you are expressly invited.

·      Pray in your seat, as you watch the team warm up.

 

Should I inform people of how I am praying?

·      Yes, if appropriate and welcomed. Simple expressions like, “I am praying for you like this, _____.”

·      Send the coaches and/or players a text message with your prayer for them.

·      Prepare a hand written card to deliver in hand, to be placed on desks, or in lockers.

·      Send a direct message through a social media platform.

·      Be very careful about publishing prayers on social media publicly, so as to not damage your relationships.

 

Please take advantage of your opportunity to pray for and possibly with the team in the pregame hours. Matthew 6:9-13 is a great place to start.