Sports Outreach Organization Review- Athletes in Action (AIA)

Sports Outreach Organization Review- Athletes in Action (AIA)
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Introduction
There are several sport outreach organizations in the world today that exist to support players grow holistically. These organizations train sportsmen, teaching the concept that life is not all about sports. They help them appreciate life and grow in Christ. Some of these organizations include Athletes in Action (AIA), The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), and the Association of Church Sports and Recreation Ministries. The essay will look into AIA, including its origin, history, its mission statement, recent developments, and future vision.
Origin of AIA
AIA was founded by Dave Hannah who intended to help athletes build a platform where they could share their faith and hope in Jesus with the entire world. The organization was set up in 1966 and started working with wrestlers (Mission Finder, 2021). The first team had top wrestlers in the country who shared their faith in Jesus in all countries they visited. Some of these countries include Germany, the Czech Republic, Mongolia, and Iran. AIA stood as representatives of the country in a premier wrestling tournament in Tehran, Iran, in 1977 and 1978 (AIA, 2022). During this period, five of the wrestlers received a calling to minister full-time. They, therefore, moved alongside their families to several countries in Europe, such as Poland, Russia, and the Czech Republic.
History of AIA
AIA began its mission through wrestlers after which other players were included. Those who were included were those playing baseball, soccer, volleyball, and basketball (AIA, 2022). Initially, AIA was launched as a travel sports ministry. It has since grown and made it a crucial role to assist athletes to grow in high-level competition, training for a purpose and a mission, and mentoring them spiritually (HCI, 2022). Further, it has become a large ministry with staff working in campuses and colleges, locker rooms, and in athletic organizations all over the world.
AIA’s Mission Statement
AIA serves, trains, and sends athletes as in...