The Gospel-Shaped Coach

Every coach is shaped by someone or something—a mentor, an admired figure, a compelling philosophy, or the latest trend in the sport. This primary influence defines your goals, values, priorities, and practices. It also sets the course of your impact on athletes and fellow coaches.

The same is true for life itself. Whatever or whoever most strongly influences you shapes your goals, values, priorities, and daily habits. That shaping force determines how you affect the lives of family, friends, colleagues, and others around you.

In 1 Thessalonians, Paul urges believers to be shaped by the gospel of Jesus Christ. He highlights the hope of Christ’s return, integrity in ministry, a life pleasing to God, and practical ways to love others and pursue holiness. He reminds the Thessalonians that the gospel came “not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction” (1:5), pointing to Christ’s rescue from sin and the gift of eternal life. This book explores how that same gospel can transform both coaching and everyday living.

Shannon Caughey loves serving coaches and athletes through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Before joining the Illini Land FCA staff team, Shannon served as a pastor at a church near the University of Illinois campus for 18 years. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Shannon is passionate about helping others grow a life-changing relationship with the Lord through His Word. He and his wife, Cathy have three adult children. You can find Shannon on Twitter @shannon_caughey or email him at scaughey@fca.org.