Arise with the Guys: A Morning of Legacy, Leadership, and Living for Christ

A Morning for Coaches and Sons

The day began early, with over 100 coaches and their sons from across Minnesota gathering for the FCA Coaches Breakfast - a treasured tradition that sets the tone for the day ahead. With Chick-fil-A in hand and coffee cups steaming, the room buzzed with the excitement of men hungry for more than just a winning season.

The morning featured stories of transformation from David Ayeni and Hope Adebayo, standout senior football players at the University of St. Thomas. Their message was clear: being great on the field means little if your life off the field isn’t anchored in Christ. These young men are not just athletes, they’re disciple-makers, using their influence to lead others into deeper relationship with Jesus.

Coaches Called to a Higher Scoreboard

From there, FCA staff and leaders shared stories of God’s work throughout Minnesota this past year - highlighting that true success isn’t measured by wins and losses, but by lives fully surrendered to Christ and anchored in Scripture. Coaches were reminded of their sacred calling: to lead with integrity, to disciple the next generation, and to live not for the approval of crowds, but the applause of Heaven.

Ted Schultz, Student Activities Director at Minnetonka Public Schools, closed the breakfast with a strong challenge - calling men to courageously reject the scoreboard of culture and instead define success by faithfulness, humility, and kingdom impact.

Legends Who Point to Jesus

As the official Arise with the Guys program began, the main stage was filled with sports legends who have used their platforms not just to entertain - but to evangelize:

🏈 Tony Dungy – NFL Hall of Fame Coach & TV Commentator

🏈 Jared Allen – Former Vikings DE, Pro Football Hall of Famer & 2025 Uncommon Award Recipient

⚾ Corey Koskie – Former MLB third baseman & 2024 Twins Hall of Fame Inductee

🏈 Tanner Morgan – Minnesota Gophers quarterback

Each one shared their testimony which was honest, raw, and deeply rooted in how Jesus has transformed their lives. Whether through fame, injury, or retirement, their message was united: Jesus is worth following at any cost.

Why This Morning Matters

"I personally enjoy this event to hear behind the scenes stories from athletes we have watched for so many years, and how God moved and how they used their platform to glorify God. It is a powerful event!" - Dave Frasier, North Metro FCA Area Director.

We’re incredibly thankful to Grace Church for hosting this impactful morning and to Chick-fil-A for providing the meal. But above all, we’re grateful to God for the way He is moving across locker rooms, weight rooms, and living rooms through coaches who are choosing to lead with Kingdom purpose.