Central Ohio FCA Blog

2026 Legends Event

Mon, 04 May 2026 21:27:14 GMT

Annual Luncheon Focused on FCA's Marketplace Ministry: A Powerful Celebration of Faith, Leadership, and Community Impact

The 2026 Central Ohio FCA Legends Luncheon, held on April 23 at Villa Milano, brought together over 440 attendees to honor Mark Greaves as the 2026 Legends Award Recipient. The event highlighted how faith-driven businesses fuel FCA's mission across Central Ohio.

Business partners are critical to Central Ohio FCA and make possible vital programs such as school huddles, summer camps, Bible distribution to athletes, coaches huddles, and outreach that reaches thousands of student-athletes and coaches. Their support advances Vision2026 to impact 7,500 lives.

Our Legends event was made possible this year by the generosity of:

Division 7 Roofing

Gold Sponsors:

Eagle Heating & Cooling and Tithe Lending

Silver Sponsor:
Covelli Enterprises

Supporting Sponsors:

River Radio (104.9 The River) , Thrivent , Christian Assembly , Modern Woodmen of America , and others who generously purchased tables and brought colleagues and associates.

Mark Greaves delivered a compelling address on aligning business with Christ, the strength of servant leadership, and the lasting value of giving back to the community. His story as founder of Tithe Lending and the Tithe Foundation inspired many. Mark's book, A Time to Return: The Radical Act that Revolutionized My Relationship with Money was featured as a gift to table hosts.

A highlight was the panel discussion moderated by Ron Stokes (former Legends recipient and voice of Buckeye Basketball). It featured student-athletes Omar Bangura and Ella Martin, plus Principal Kevin Tooson. They shared powerful testimonies about FCA's transformative role in public schools — building character, fostering faith, and creating community.

The energy in the room was electric as leaders, coaches, athletes, and business professionals connected over a shared passion for impacting the next generation through sports and faith. Sue Ramsey , previous Legends recipient and hall of fame coach was also present to share in the event and offered her new book for signing .

Events like this remind us that when businesses stand with FCA, eternal impact multiplies. Thank you to every donor, volunteer leader, table host, and attendee who joined us. Your presence and partnership keep the ministry thriving.

The Bridge to Kindness Selects Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes as a 2026 Impact Award Winner

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:05:42 GMT

Aaron Quinn Accepts Award on Behalf of Central Ohio FCA

The Bridge to Kindness, the weekly River Radio podcast spotlighting Columbus-area nonprofits and ways to get involved, named Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) a 2026 Impact Award winner. The award recognizes FCA’s dedicated work equipping coaches and athletes with faith, character, and leadership through sports.

Aaron Quinn, Central Ohio FCA Multi-Area Director, accepted the award at the ceremony. Paul Rankin, Chick-fil-A Easton Town Center owner/operator and longtime FCA supporter, delivered remarks as well.

Rankin, an Ohio native, leads the popular Easton location with his family. A committed community leader, he actively supports local schools, churches, Chamber of Commerce, and Habitat for Humanity. As a Christian entrepreneur, Rankin integrates faith into business and ministry, frequently speaking on leadership, entrepreneurship, and living out the Gospel. His consistent backing of FCA reflects his passion for using influence to impact young people through sports and faith.

Central Ohio FCA serves hundreds of coaches and athletes across regional schools. Weekly huddles, coaches’ Bible studies, one-on-one mentoring, and summer camps that integrate biblical principles into athletic competition. Coaches gain tools to lead with integrity. Athletes develop discipline, teamwork, and an eternal perspective beyond wins and losses. The ministry builds relationships that extend into families and communities, fostering stronger team cultures and personal growth.

The Bridge to Kindness chose FCA for its measurable, lasting impact—aligning perfectly with the podcast’s mission to inspire difference-makers. FCA meets people where they are: on practice fields and in locker rooms—turning sports into platforms for Gospel outreach and character formation.

“We are honored to receive this recognition,” Quinn stated. “Our staff and volunteers pour into coaches and athletes daily because sports open doors to hearts. Thank you to The Bridge to Kindness for seeing the eternal value in this work.”

Rankin’s remarks reinforced the theme. He praised FCA’s focus on transforming athletes and coaches, emphasizing how faith creates ripple effects across Central Ohio. His remarks highlighted the power of investing in today’s youth to shape tomorrow’s leaders of integrity.

This Impact Award celebrates organizations like Central Ohio FCA that deliver tangible results through consistent, relational ministry. Their model proves sports and faith coexist powerfully for community good.

The Bridge to Kindness congratulates Central Ohio FCA on this well-deserved honor. Their work strengthens the region one coach, one athlete, and one huddle at a time. Continued partnership will amplify positive change across Columbus.

Central Ohio FCA Partners with Shawn Harper's The Winners Identity Conference

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:51:57 GMT

Central Ohio FCA announces its partnership with Shawn Harper, speaker and author, for its inaugural event named The Winners Identity Conference.

"I'm thrilled to partner with Central Ohio FCA and join together in their ministry to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church. This event is intended to challenge today's norm on what constitutes winning and put it not on material things, but to focus—or re-focus—on winning for the Kingdom," said Shawn Harper. “To have the support of FCA for our inaugural event is truly a blessing and we’re excited to partner together to strengthen their ability to reach more student-athletes and coaches not just at our event, but in the coming months and years.”

The conference explores faith, identity, and overcoming adversity through a Christ-centered lens for athletes, coaches, leaders, students, and parents. Featured speakers include Master Teague, Jeff Hartings, Lauren Clippard, Doug Worthington, and Derrick Malone.

The free, half-day event is set for Saturday, April 25, 2026, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at COhatch Polaris (1554 Polaris Parkway #325, Columbus, OH 43240). Limited seating available, and is on a first-come, first serve basis with your ticket.

About Shawn Harper

Shawn Harper is a former NFL player (Rams, Colts, NFL Europe) and CEO of American Services and Protection. A two-time author of The Winning Edge and The Winologist, he has over 20 years as a motivational speaker for corporate and non-profit audiences including Procter & Gamble, FedEx, JPMorgan Chase, Dow, and Sonic. He equips teams with tools for high performance, accountability, and winning cultures rooted in faith and resilience.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-winners-identity-conference-tickets-1982577066375

More on Shawn Harper: https://shawnharperwins.com/about

About Central Ohio FCA

Central Ohio FCA is the local regional organization for the global Fellowship of Christian Athletes whose mission is to engage, equip, and empower coaches and athletes to know and grow in Christ. Mission-driven and vision-oriented, Central Ohio FCA works with middle, high school, and collegiate student-athletes and coaches at all levels in the central Ohio region to leverage the platform of sport to better know and honor Jesus Christ. To learn more on FCA, visit www.centralohiofca.org.

Rise Up

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 15:23:53 GMT

An Easter Message from Aaron Quinn, Central Ohio FCA Multi-Area Director

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Saying “Yes” to Leading Your FCA Huddle Will Benefit Your College Applications & Recruitment

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 20:30:04 GMT

FCA Provides Student-Athletes with Leadership Training

Middle and high school students often see leading an FCA huddle or sports team as “extra stuff.” But stepping up as captain, huddle leader, or organizer builds real skills that help you win in high school, college, and beyond. Saying yes now gives you a head start on your future career.

First, you learn leadership and management early. Running huddle meetings, planning events, encouraging teammates, and keeping everyone on track teaches you how to lead without getting paid. You practice making decisions, assigning tasks, and helping the group succeed. Future bosses look for exactly these skills. Colleges and employers love seeing leadership on applications because it shows you can handle responsibility.

Second, you build a strong network. FCA connects you with coaches, athletes, alumni, and Christian leaders across the country. As huddle leader you meet new people, host events, and stay in touch. Those connections can open doors later for advice, recommendations, or opportunities. Many successful people started with simple relationships built in high school sports and faith groups.

Third, you improve communication and speaking skills. Leading huddles means talking in front of your team, sharing devotions, and handling questions. You learn to speak clearly and confidently. This practice helps you in class presentations, job interviews, and future meetings. Good communication is one of the top skills employers want.

Fourth, you master time management and responsibility. Balancing school, sports, huddle duties, and homework forces you to prioritize and stay organized. You learn to meet deadlines and juggle responsibilities. Colleges and jobs reward students who can handle multiple things without falling behind.

Fifth, your activities stand out on applications. “FCA Huddle Leader” or “Team Captain” looks much stronger than just “member.” It shows initiative and effort. When filling out college or scholarship forms, or answering interview questions like “Tell me about a time you led others,” you’ll have real examples ready. This helps you get noticed and accepted.

Sixth, you grow resilience, conflict resolution, and character. Teams and huddles face challenges like disagreements, losses, or busy schedules. As leader you learn to solve problems calmly and encourage others. These experiences build toughness and empathy—qualities that help in any future job or team.

Finally, leading builds confidence and a strong personal brand. You learn to step up, serve others, and live your faith. That poise and purpose make you stand out. Many leaders who started in high school FCA or sports teams later succeed in college and careers because they developed discipline and a heart for service early.

Saying yes takes time—meetings, planning, and showing up for your team. But the payoff is huge: skills, friends, stories, and confidence that set you up for success in high school, college applications, and your future job.

If you’re thinking about leading your FCA huddle or team, go for it. Students who say yes don’t just participate—they prepare to lead in life. FCA offers the training and support to develop leaders for life.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes Announces Annual 'Whole in One' Golf Tournament to Support Local Coaches and Athletes

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:16:38 GMT

Registration is Now Open!

The Central Ohio chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) will host its annual "Whole in One" Golf Tournament on Monday, June 22, 2026, at the Columbus Country Club. This highly anticipated event brings together community members, local businesses, and sports enthusiasts to support FCA’s ongoing mission to make an eternal impact on the lives of coaches and athletes throughout Central Ohio.

Participants can look forward to a full day of engaging activities, beginning with breakfast and concluding with lunch. The tournament features a variety of unique opportunities and challenges on the green. Golfers can participate in the longest drive and putting contests, as well as two closest-to-the-pin challenges. To add an extra layer of excitement, players will have access to two mulligans and two "grenades," allowing them to throw the ball. A major highlight of the day includes a hole-in-one contest offering a "Play with a Pro" experience at the Golf Room.

Local businesses are highly encouraged to participate in the "Whole in One" tournament as both sponsors and players. Joining this event offers companies a unique opportunity to network with other community leaders while demonstrating a strong commitment to youth development and local sports programs. Corporate involvement directly funds initiatives that mentor and equip young athletes, providing businesses with a meaningful way to invest in the future of the Central Ohio community.

The tournament also serves as a key platform to highlight FCA’s Golf Ministry. This specialized program focuses on reaching the golfing community with FCA's core values, using the game of golf as a tool for character development, mentorship, and faith-building. Proceeds from the tournament will directly fuel these ministry efforts, ensuring that coaches and athletes receive the support and resources they need to thrive both on and off the course.

Central Ohio FCA's Outstanding Christian Leader Awards

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:49:30 GMT

Congratulations to our Class of 2026 Outstanding Christian Leaders

Celebrating Faith and Athletics

The Central Ohio FCA OCLA Event at Grace Polaris Church

On March 8th, Grace Polaris Church filled with athletes, coaches, and community leaders for a truly special evening. Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) hosted the annual OCLA event, bringing together people from across the region to celebrate faith, character, and leadership in sports.

The gathering served a vital purpose. It gave the community a chance to pause and recognize the incredible work happening both on and off the field. Through powerful testimonies, shared treats, and inspiring speeches, the afternoon highlighted how sports can serve as a bridge to community impact and personal growth.

One of the most memorable moments of the day featured our keynote speaker, Percell Gaskins, who reminded us that God made each of us for a specific purpose and we need to trust Him with unwavering faith. Hearing athletes and coaches speak openly about their journeys reminded everyone in the room that true victory extends far beyond the scoreboard.

The Significance of the Awards

The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the awards. These honors mean more than athletic achievement. They recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional character, serve their communities, and lead by example. The winners represent the core values of the FCA, showing what it means to use their platform to uplift others and honor their faith.

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the individuals who took home honors this year.

Coaches of the Year: Dave Lehman, Ron Lehman, Mark Lehman, Chuck Lehman, Janet Lehman
Male Huddle Advisor of the Year: Anthony Forrest
Female Huddle Advisor of the Year: Katy Leonard
Volunteer of the Year: Josh Ashwill
Church Partner of the Year: Bright City Church
Community Champion of the Year: Village Coffee of Sunbury
Male College Athlete of the Year: Aden Gregory
Female College Athlete of the Year: Abby Wheeler

Additionally, we honored dozens of middle school and high school student-athletes that are leading their huddles or teams in worship for Jesus Christ. FCA starts in 6th grade and involvement in the organization can last a lifetime.

Looking Forward

The energy at Grace Polaris Church on March 8th left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. We left the building feeling renewed and inspired to carry that same spirit into our schools, gyms, and neighborhoods. We will see this same spirit carried into our summer camps this year and continue to allow us to support and expand school and team huddles.

Central Ohio FCA wants to extend a massive thank you to all the volunteers, sponsors, and attendees who made the OCLA event a resounding success. We look forward to seeing how God continues to work through these amazing athletes and coaches in the year ahead.

Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes Announces Percell Gaskins as Keynote Speaker for Outstanding Christian Leader Awards

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:00:27 GMT

Percell Gaskins is a Legend at Kansas Stat U and Christ-Follower

The Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes announces Percell Gaskins as the keynote speaker for the upcoming Outstanding Christian Leader Awards. Attendees will gather to hear Gaskins share his experiences and insights, setting a celebratory tone for an afternoon dedicated to service and athletic excellence.

The organization will hold the celebration on March 8th to recognize exceptional individuals who impact the local youth sports community through their faith and dedication. The event highlights the positive influence of local leaders, coaches, and athletes.

Percell Gaskins is a former NFL linebacker with a distinguished career at Kansas State University and in the NFL. Today, he serves as a football team chaplain through FCA, dedicating his time to mentoring coaches and student-athletes, expanding outreach programs, and fostering spiritual growth and leadership within the sports community.

During the ceremony, the Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes will honor several distinguished community members. The organization will present the Coaches of the Year award to The Lehman Family for their continued dedication to student-athletes. Katy Leonard will receive the Female Huddle Advisor award, and Anthony Forrest will accept the Male Huddle Advisor award for their outstanding mentorship.

The organization will also recognize Josh Ashwill as Volunteer of the Year. Bright City Church will be honored as the Church Partner, and Village Coffee of Sunbury will receive the Community Champion award for their steadfast support. Additionally, Abby Wheeler and Aden Gregory will be celebrated as the College Athletes of the Year.

These honorees dedicate their time and energy to guiding young people and fostering environments of integrity. The March 8th event serves as a moment to thank them for their vital contributions to the region and invites parents, church leaders, and community leaders in to learn more about the organization and experience the camaraderie that is unique to FCA.

Learn more about Percell and hear his story

Coach Lochlyn of The Ohio State University

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:21:21 GMT

Keynote Address at FCA Breakfast by Coach Locklyn of OSU Football

Coach Carlos Locklyn inspired the coaches with his story, testimony of his faith in Jesus and challenged the coaches to impact the athletes lives beyond the sport of football…

Coach Locklyn’s purpose in life to server others was summed by his statement “Show me your sacrifice and I’ll show you God’s blessings.” This statement is biblical as scripture consistently ties sacrifice, obedience, and surrender to the favor, presence, and blessing of God. Coaches saying captures a timeless kingdom principle: God honors what costs us something.

Below are some of the strongest verses that support the heart behind that statement. Maybe pick a few.

1. Psalm 50:14–15

“Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving… call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you.”
This shows the pattern: sacrifice → calling on God → God’s deliverance and blessing.

2. Psalm 126:5–6

“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.”
Sacrifice, pain, and perseverance lead to a harvest of blessing.

3. Proverbs 3:9–10

“Honor the Lord with your wealth… then your barns will be filled to overflowing.”
When you sacrifice and honor God first, He responds with abundance.

4. Luke 6:38

“Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Jesus directly connects sacrificial giving with God’s return blessing.

5. Matthew 16:24–25

Jesus says that whoever loses (sacrifices) their life for His sake will find it.
Sacrifice leads to a greater blessing — true life.

6. Romans 12:1–2

Paul calls believers to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice , and the result is transformation and the ability to discern God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will — a blessing in itself.

7. 2 Corinthians 9:6–8

“Whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
Sacrifice → multiplied blessing.
God even promises to “make all grace abound” so you’ll have everything you need.

8. Malachi 3:10

“Bring the whole tithe… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing.”
One of the clearest biblical connections between obedience/sacrifice and God’s blessing.

9. Hebrews 13:16

“Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
When God is pleased, blessing follows — His pleasure is the blessing.

Unisha Dickerson Joins Advisory Board

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 05:29:58 GMT

2026 Marks an Expanded Advisory Board Ready to Lead the Expansion of Central Ohio FCA

The Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is excited to announce the appointment of Unisha Dickerson to its Advisory Board. A caring, dedicated, and spiritually driven Woman of God, Unisha brings entrepreneurial expertise and non-profit service to the FCA mission. Her addition strengthens a board rich with community leaders.

A Legacy of Service and Leadership

Unisha Dickerson’s path reflects faith and dedication. After graduating Briggs High School, she entered home health care while attending Columbus State Community College. She earned Home Health Certification from the Board of Developmental Disabilities and is licensed by the State of Ohio. In 2010, she launched her Home Care Agency, serving the developmentally disabled community.

Licensed as a Residential Real Estate Professional since 2023, Unisha assists first-time home buyers in Central Ohio. Since November 2025, she works part-time as a substitute secretary for Columbus City Schools. From childhood, she dreamed of entrepreneurship, mimicking office tasks on her grandfather’s typewriter. Her administrative and organizational skills shine in all roles.

Unisha served as Board Secretary for Sunshine Christian Academy for two years and, since 2024, as Board Administrator for The Flyt Foundation.

A Personal Connection to the Mission

In 2025, Unisha connected with FCA through Board Member Shanrika Hall-Royal while attending City of Grace Church. Intrigued by FCA’s purpose, she sought involvement to support the mission and agreed to join the Advisory Board to help increase awareness for FCA's ministry and increase its resources to reach more student-athletes and coaches.

She joins a dedicated team guiding Central Ohio FCA, including:

* Diane Wingerter (Board Chair)

* Paul Breen (Vice Chair)

* Thomas Aakhus (Vice Chair)

* Donald Wells

* Patrick Smith

* Sarah Shifflet

* Cale Sandridge

* Clifford Rich

* Cheyenne Lenhart

* Shanrika Hall-Royal

* Matt Casey

* Taja Hammond

* Michael Cobetto

* Tony Haislar

* Steve Reiss

* Scott Alexander

We welcome Unisha Dickerson and anticipate her community impact. To learn more about Unisha, you can download her bio .

2026 OCLA Recipients Named

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:48:08 GMT

Recipients Will Be Recognized on March 8, 2026

Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes Announces the Recipients of its 2026 Christian Leader Awards

COLUMBUS, OH – Jan 20, 2026 – The Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2026 Ohio Christian Leader Awards (OCLA). These awards recognize individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to impacting the community through Christian faith and athletics.

This year, the Central Ohio FCA is honored to name the Lehman Family as the FCA Coaches of the Year. The family's multi-generational impact on student-athletes is profound. The recipients include Dave Lehman, retired Head Track Coach at Otterbein College after 44 years and current Assistant Coach for Big Walnut Cross Country & Track; Ron Lehman, Head Volleyball Coach at Big Walnut High School; Mark Lehman, Assistant Volleyball/JV Coach at Big Walnut High School; Chuck Lehman, Assistant Volleyball/9th Grade Coach at Big Walnut High School; and Janet Lehman, Assistant Volleyball/JV Coach at Big Walnut High School. This is the first time in the history of the OCLA that an entire family of coaches has been named.

The Huddle Advisors of the Year are Katy Leonard from Olentangy Shanahan Middle School and Anthony Forrest of Westerville Central High School, recognized for their exceptional dedication and commitment to mentoring student-athletes. Huddle Advisors serve a critical role in campus huddles by supporting and mentoring the student leaders that run the weekly prayer huddles throughout the school year.

Josh Ashwill (South Side) has been named Volunteer of the Year for his selfless contributions to his community and involvement in FCA. Additionally, Bright City Church in Sunbury has been named as the Church Partner of the Year for its steadfast support of the FCA mission.

An awards ceremony to celebrate these recipients, alongside many student-leaders from middle and high schools throughout central Ohio, will be held on March 8th at Grace Polaris Church. The event will highlight the positive influence these adult leaders have on young athletes, fostering environments of integrity, service, and excellence while also celebrating the student-athletes that promote and lead peer-to-peer Christian bible studies at their schools and within their sports teams.

About Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA):
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes is a global not-for-profit headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri working to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes. The Central Ohio chapter engages, equips, and empowers coaches and athletes to unite, inspire, and change the world through the Gospel. Chapter staff is supported through the generosity of the business community, individual and family donors.

Media Contact:
Suzanne Carawan
571.423.6387
scarawan@fca.org

January Message from Aaron Quinn

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:06:45 GMT

Happy New Year to You!

I hope and pray each of you were able to enjoy some much needed and deserved time with family and friends over Christmas and the start of the New Year.

As we continue to move into this new year, I would like to ask you a question: did today feel any different to you? For many, the start of a new year brings motivation, anticipation and hope of a new day, a new year, and new opportunities. Goals and resolutions are made and, often, quickly broken and/or forgotten. The newness of another year wears off and we find ourselves making similar choices and focusing on the same priorities as the year before.

January 9th is known as Quitter's Day as that is when most people give up on their New Year's resolutions. What about you? Where are you in your goals and resolutions? What would help you to stick with it?

What if we made a conscious choice to make every day new? What if we started every day with a conversation centered around gratitude and focus on becoming new in Jesus? Paul speaks of this in his second letter to the church in Corinth, " Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Each day is a gift from God. A gift that is to be received, valued and enjoyed by seeking His will for your life.

We are taking this thought and many prayers for resiliency and tenacity into our 2026 plans for Central Ohio. We thank everyone for their support, participation, and prayers.

2025 Central Ohio FCA Year in Review

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 18:57:50 GMT

A Year to Give Him Glory Together

Thank you to all of our athletes, coaches, volunteers, and donors that made 2025 possible! Thanks to your talents, treasure, and time, we have been able to give all glory to Him and see our ministry grow.

Ella Martin Talks About How FCA Has Shaped Her

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:06:36 GMT

Building Confidence and Camaraderie in a Safe Space for Christians

Ella Martin is a student leader in Westerville. Here she talks about the benefits that being involved in a huddle has afforded her and how she hopes that her time involved in FCA will continue into college.

Omar Bangura, Student Leader, Reflects on His Experience

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 19:56:33 GMT

The Key is Accountability to Him

Omar Bangura, a student leader in Westerville school district, speaks about his experience in FCA. Omar not only has been a huddle leader meeting with students to lead them in Gospel reflections and discussion each week, but also has served as a camp leader through FCA summer camps. He notes that he has both found mentors in FCA and serves as a mentor to his campers which helps him hold himself to a higher standard. Having the opportunity to be a role model to others is just one of the benefits of being involved in FCA that Omar cites with the biggest benefit being the opportunity to grow in his faith.

2026 Legends Recipient is Mark Greaves

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 15:23:32 GMT

Business Leader and Philanthropist Mark Greaves Named 2026 FCA Legend Award Winner

The Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is honored to announce that Mark Greaves , CEO of Tithe Lending and founder of the Tithe Foundation , has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Central Ohio FCA Legend Award. This year’s prestigious honor recognizes an individual who has leveraged their professional influence to further the gospel and make a lasting impact in the community.

Greaves will be formally recognized at the upcoming FCA Legends Luncheon event , scheduled for April 23, 2026. The Central Ohio FCA community comprised of athletes, coaches, church and business partners, will gather to celebrate his transformative contributions to local non-profits and his unwavering commitment to spreading the love of Jesus Christ.

Throughout his career, Greaves has demonstrated visionary leadership by creating innovative financial solutions for faith-based organizations through Tithe Lending, and by empowering Central Ohio non-profits with essential resources and support via the Tithe Foundation. His passion for uplifting others—and his firm dedication to serving Christ—has touched countless lives and strengthened charitable work across the region.

“Mark Greaves’ faith-driven leadership stands as a powerful example of what it means to serve others with integrity,” said Aaron Quinn, Area Director for Central Ohio FCA. “This award, selected by our advisory board, recognizes Mark not only for his professional achievements, but for the eternal impact he’s making in the lives of so many across Central Ohio. We look forward to being a witness to his continued stewardship in Central Ohio.”

Reflecting on receiving the news of the award, Greaves shared, “I was both surprised and deeply grateful to learn that I had been chosen as the 2026 FCA Legend. To represent such an incredible community of Christian athletes is truly humbling. Sharing the love of Jesus and keeping Him at the center of my life is the greatest privilege I have, and sports have played a significant role in shaping that focus and discipline. I am incredibly honored and excited for this opportunity.”

A former standout volleyball player at Ohio State University, Greaves has carried forward the discipline, teamwork, and resilience he learned in athletics into every aspect of his business and charitable endeavors.

The FCA Legend Award is given annually to a leader who uses their platform to advance faith, inspire others, and serve the community with selfless purpose.

Scott Alexander Joins the Central Ohio FCA Advisory Board

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 02:23:06 GMT

Alexander Joins a Power-Packed Advisory Board to Further FCA's Mission

The Central Ohio Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is excited to announce the appointment of Scott Alexander to its Advisory Board. A man of deep faith, diverse experience, and unwavering commitment to service, Scott brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion to the FCA mission. His addition strengthens a board already rich with dedicated leaders from across the community.

A Legacy of Service and Leadership

Scott Alexander’s journey is a testament to living out a childhood dream. He picked up a golf club at the age of four and has been deeply involved in the sport ever since. As a member of the PGA since 2013, he has competed in over 200 tournaments, bringing a disciplined, athletic perspective to his work. His professional life extends beyond the green; after a successful career as a Financial Advisor, he launched Reign Makers Wealth Advisors in 2023. Scott is also a seasoned entrepreneur, owning three Huntington Learning Center franchises with his wife.

His heart for service runs deep. Scott has an extensive history of non-profit leadership, having served as Chairman of the Board for The Church Next Door and as President of Folds of Honor (Central Ohio). He currently serves as a board member for both Folds of Honor and Relationships Under Construction. This long-standing dedication to giving back is guided by his values as a husband, father, and man of God, approaching every role with authenticity, integrity, and a Kingdom-focused lens.

A Personal Connection to the Mission

Scott’s path to the FCA was paved by family. His daughters’ involvement and passion for FCA through Big Walnut High School sparked his own interest, inspiring him to become more involved and lend his experience to the ministry.

He joins a dedicated team of leaders committed to guiding the Central Ohio FCA. This includes:

Diane Wingerter (Board Chair)
Paul Breen (Vice Chair)
Thomas Aakhus (Vice Chair)
Donald Wells (Advisory Board Member)
Patrick Smith (Board Member)
Sarah Shifflet (Advisory Board Member)
Cale Sandridge (Board Member)
Clifford Rich (Board Member)
Cheyenne Lenhart (Advisory Board Member)
Shanrika Hall-Royal (Advisory Board Member)
Matt Casey (Advisory Board Member)
Taja Hammond (Advisory Board Member)
Michael Cobetto (Advisory Board Member)
Tony Haislar (Advisory Board Member)
Steve Reiss (Advisory Board Member)

Together, this board provides the vision and support necessary to advance FCA’s mission: to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

We are thrilled to welcome Scott Alexander and look forward to the impact his leadership will have on our community.

Principal Kevin Tooson Supports FCA

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 01:38:59 GMT

Licking Heights Middle School Principal Kevin Tooson

Hear directly from a veteran educator why FCA is an important addition to the life of a student-athlete. Principal Kevin Tooson has been in education for over 24 years and has received multiple awards throughout his career as an educator, administrator, and coach. Thr

Testimonial on the Power of FCA

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:39:10 GMT

Carolyn Holmes from Second Baptist Church

Listen to Carolyn Holmes talk about the impact that FCA is having in her community and why she is grateful for the power of a unified community that seeks to life everyone up. Thanks to FCA Staff Coach Tim Brown for contributing this clip of Carolyn and giving thanks for the partnership with Second Baptist Church.

FCA Olentangy Announces its First Varsity Baseball Huddle

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:59:09 GMT

Sizemore and Haag Step Up to the Plate as Huddle Advisors

We are thrilled to announce that this spring we will have the first Varsity Baseball Huddle at Olentangy High School ! This is just another win for the program that is coming off a 2025 D1 OHSAA State Championship!

Thank you to Austin Sizemore who is an Olentangy HS alumnus and the Assistant Varsity Baseball Coach who has said YES to FCA to start this huddle. Thank you also to Riley Haag who is an Olentangy HS alumnus and has said YES to FCA to start this huddle as a co-advisor!

May we all lift up these coach leaders in prayer of thanksgiving and support!

Muskingum FCA is Back in Action

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:59:06 GMT

College Athletes Take Time to Gather for the Gospel & Each Other

"My understanding is that FCA previously had a presence on Muskingum University's campus, but it struggled to find consistent student-leadership during and after COVID.," explained Laina Connor, Head Coach of Muskingum University's softball team . "I went out in August 2025 and trained this year's Student-Athlete Huddle Leaders. Their Huddle started shortly after training." They have utilized this year's Glory curriculum and, as Connor said, "God is moving on our campus!" Praise the Lord!

How amazing is it to see college campuses across the country with hearts on fire for Jesus? We are winning!

Wrestling Clinic a Success at Liberty High School

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:21:54 GMT

Successful Wrestling Camp at Olentangy Liberty High School

A great camp was held for wrestlers across the region at Libery HS. Athletes from middle through high school spent the day learning physical, mental, and spiritual techniques to take their performance to the next level. Kollin Moore, highly decorated Buckeye who has gone on to compete at the international level, led the full-day camp to teach technique and performance mindset. Throughout it all, the emphasis remained on doing your best for His Glory and not your own which is the overall 2025 theme of FCA Global.

Student-athletes from the following schools were in attendance:

Big Walnut Middle School
Big Walnut High School
Dublin Coffman High School
Dublin Jerome High School
Huntington
Worthington Kilbourne Middle School
Logan Elm High School
Marysville High School
Northland High School
Olentangy Liberty High School
Thomas Worthington High School

Didn't hear about the camp? Maybe because you're not following Central Ohio FCA on social media! Make sure to connect with us to get all the latest info on upcoming opportunities (parents--if you can believe this, dates for 2026 will be released soon for our beloved Legends luncheon, Memorial Golf Tournament, and summer camps!)

565 Metro Pl S #300, Dublin, OH 43017