Through all aspects of a Christian student’s life the goal is ultimately to be an emulation of Christ. With this in mind, the Office of Christian Formation has created a program specifically designed for Christian Student Athletes. Entitled “Forming Leaders, Forging Teams”, this program is designed to equip varsity leaders with the knowledge, skills and resources to effectively lead their teams. Beginning with the underpinnings of trust and escalating to achievable common goals this is a comprehensive approach to developing a disciplined Christian leader and a stronger Christian team.

To build a stronger team the team must start with a secure foundation rooted in trust. Trust develops honest communication which leads to a shared commitment. Holding one another accountable in their daily lives to the team commitment is important not only as teammates but also as brothers and sisters in Christ. The capstone of the program is constructing common goals and plans of action to achieve those goals. Each step builds upon the previous step and is essential to the productive functioning of all the steps above it. This is an ongoing experience with many opportunities for structured activity and a daily participation commitment. Becoming a better leader of men through this program will expose you to a new understanding of becoming a leader for Christ. Your old ideas and habits will be challenged in ways you have only imagined.

One aspect of our program is the off-site retreat held at the beautiful Gainey Ranch in the wilderness of Montana. Student athletes from every varsity and club sport are invited to spend seven days of their summer at the ranch participating in various activities to strengthen their team building abilities with a focus on Christian attitudes and ideals. Upon returning to Grand Rapids each participant is involved in a variety of extracurricular events and follow-up sessions designed to help them maintain their focus during the busy school year and sports season and to expand upon the ideas gained at the retreat.

Based in part upon The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Calvin College would like to thank Patrick Lencioni for his innovative work in the area of team building.