Serving youth

The 32nd annual Waseca Fellowship of Christian Athletes Junior Sports Camp was held August 2-4 at Waseca High School. A total of 156 campers picked one sport each day for three days, choosing among football, baseball,  wrestling, volleyball, soccer, tennis, track, golf, hockey, softball, basketball, or gymnastics. Essentially, if it’s a sport, it was an option for boys, girls, and some coed events. 

The camp serves young athletes who want to develop their skills in sports and strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ. Adult leaders at the event included more than a dozen of the area’s best high school coaches. Each day featured influential area speakers, among them  Shane Streich, via video, and former Wasecan, Nicollet Head Coach and 2022 Softball state champion Brianne (Ruedy) Eldred, and Scott Bryant. 

Streich, a 2015 graduate of Waseca and multiple time state champion in track and field and cross country, recently earned a North American, and United States record in the 1000 meter indoor running professionally for the Atlanta Track Club. During his youth, Streich was a regular camper and active member of Waseca FCA. 

The camp’s theme this year was “EVERY” Ephesians 1:3, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”

Those responsible for organizing this event are too numerous to count. This year’s directors, who have directed for the past six years, were Barry and Stacey Dufault. For the first 26 years the directors were John and Lori Hanson. Serving as a director for all 32 years is John Conway. 

“Please give all the credit to our incredible volunteers,” Conway requested. “And praise God!” 

FCA puts on various camps throughout the summer. The organization’s next big event is “Fields of Faith” on October 12, a national FCA gathering at which athletes take to the field to share their faith journeys. Other events include Courts of Praise, and one in the works, Diamonds of Discipleship. As events come about, those interested are encouraged to check with their local huddles and/or the FCA website. 

During the school year, the central focus is on local campus huddles meeting weekly or biweekly. Those interested can join by going to MinnesotaFCA.org.