Throughout my whole sports life in coaching and playing, I accepted this mentality that you have to be cocky and confident to be a next-level athlete. But that’s what the world says, not the Scripture! Our pride and confidence should be found in Christ. All our victories and losses should point to Him, not us. Winning and achieving greatness undoubtedly falls short if we aren’t doing it for Jesus. Is it even possible to play at a high level, be great, and remain humble?
During this past season of coaching, my basketball team played Faith Baptist. Playing them changed how I thought about competing. They beat us in the conference championship game at the buzzer. They were one of the hardest teams we played that season, but when the game ended, it was like they felt bad they beat us. Don’t get me wrong, they wanted to beat us for sure, but their humility during and after the game left me in awe. The whole team also prayed together, and they made me want that for my team; they left me wanting to be more like Christ!
The answer to my opening question is yes--100%. It is possible to be a great athlete and be humble at the same time. But the focus has to come off of yourself and go to your team and glorifying God in every game or championship you play in. Instead of talking trash to your opponent, celebrate with your teammates. When your opponent talks trash to you, use that as fuel to not only play harder but also to show them God’s humility and love through you.
And when the game ends, always be right, do right, and be humble! Whether you win or lose, be the person people see a difference in! They should see something different about a Christian athlete or coach--something that has them wanting what you have!
