An Opportunity to Partner - CJ Ham and FCA

The Athlete

CJ Ham is a 2011 graduate of Duluth-Denfeld High School and a 2015 graduate of Augustana College where he was an active member of The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). His dream was always to play for the NFL, but it didn’t go exactly as he had planned. He went undrafted in the 2016 Draft and joined the practice squad for the Minnesota Vikings. He refused to give up, worked even harder, and proved there that he had what it takes to play on the team. He was promoted to the active roster later that year and recently signed a new three-year contract with the Vikings.

The Camp Director

Erik Lofald is a 1997 graduate and head football coach of Duluth-Denfeld High School and the FCA Area Representative for Northeast Minnesota. Erik met CJ in the summer of 2012 when he worked out in the Duluth-Denfeld weight room during the summer. The two connected immediately because of their love of football, Duluth-Denfeld, and FCA. They stayed in touch, and Erik followed CJ’s path to success.

Erik says, “He went from undrafted to a walk-on, signs a pro contract and is now one of the top fullbacks in the league. We are just so proud of him. Whenever we talk about core values with the team, we always talk about him.” When CJ contacted Erik about doing a youth camp in his hometown, Erik didn’t hesitate. He said, “CJ is such a humble guy but also larger than life in the community. To have access to a professional athlete is so unique, and the connection to FCA was there as well. I was super excited to take on the challenge.”

The Camp

Originally, the camp had spots for 225 kids, but registration filled up in only one day. CJ didn’t want any kid to be turned away, so they added a second camp which also filled quickly. So on a hot day in July, 435 Kindergarten through 8th grade kids had the opportunity to rub shoulders with a football great and the football coaches from Duluth-Denfeld. 

One of Erik’s favorite memories from the day was shortly before the camp kicked off. CJ came out of the locker room and the media was right there. Erik asked CJ whether he wanted to talk to them or what he wanted to do, and CJ responded, “Man, I just want to pray.” After they prayed for God to move through them, the group taught these enthusiastic boys and girls new skills and taught how to develop the character it takes to work hard, persevere, and achieve their dreams. 

Reflecting on the day, Cal Barr, FCA Area Director, said, “CJ is a great role model for our community. He is inspiring young athletes to pursue Jesus, be good people, and to give great effort. The camp reached into some of the most-needy areas of Duluth. Coaches, high school players, and volunteers joined with CJ to give back and reach down to help others. I think Jesus was smiling as well.”

Cal, who graduated from Duluth East High School before either Erik or CJ were born, is well-known in the Duluth area sports world. Cal played baseball for the St. Louis Cardinal organization and football at the University of Minnesota - Duluth and for the Atlanta Falcons. He has been on staff with FCA since 2001 and is respected by many. Cal said, “We are interested in engaging sport at all levels with all stakeholders. I had many conversations with parents and grandparents who were smiling as their loved ones were enjoying the fun of football.” He even got to connect with CJ’s dad who came to the camp.

Thankful for God’s Planning

The entire camp was such a testimony to God’s grace through a professional athlete whose heart is to see all kids experience high-quality sports training while getting a glimpse of God’s love for them through CJ’s kindness and the influence of coaches who love Jesus. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes is grateful for opportunities like this. Erik said, “It’s a win-win for everyone. No one loses in this experience. We got to see the reactions of those who attended and know it was a great experience.” 

Erik said, “After the camp, I sat home completely exhausted and thought about the impact it had. It was neat, and people were appreciative. CJ is larger than life when you’re around him but so humble.” It was clear that God had orchestrated the partnership between CJ, Erik, and FCA and used it for His glory to show hundreds of kids, their parents, grandparents, and the community the light of Christ.

Pray for the kids who attended, that God would use this camp as a catalyst for drawing them to Him. Pray for CJ as he continues to play professionally, that he would continue to bring glory to Christ. And pray for more opportunities for FCA to partner with others to bring Christ’s love to the world in any way possible.