More than 150 Corban College students participate in 11 intercollegiate sports: men’s/women’s soccer, men’s/women’s basketball, men’s/women’s cross country, men’s/women’s golf, baseball, softball, and volleyball.

In-season and out, Corban student athletes are bound by a commitment to God as well as each other, says John Nelson, director of Athletics.

“We desire Corban Warriors to be intentional about their walk with God, and exemplary in their relationships with others,” Nelson said. He listed several attributes Corban student athletes strive for, and provided scripture references for several.

“They apply to our athletic teams for sure, but this goes for all who represent Corban,” Nelson added.

For Corban athletes, God is No. 1. “Let every detail in your lives – words, actions, whatever, be done in the name of the Master, Jesus” [Colossians 3:17].

The team prays. “The first thing I want you to do is pray.” [1 Timothy 2:1]. “It’s our connection with God,” Nelson said. “The key is to just do it.”

Corban student athletes are to read and study spiritual truth. “Start with the fundamentals,” Nelson said. “Read the Bible, devotionals like My Utmost For His Highest, and books like Knowing God and The Purpose-Driven Life.”

Corban student athletes are to stand firm. “Use every piece of God’s armor … standing firm” [Ephesians 6:13].

Corban student athletes are to bring attention to the team, not to himself or herself. “Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility considers others as more important than yourselves” [Philippians 2:3].

Corban student athletes are to “be good students, going to class, doing the reading, writing the papers, going to study groups and more,” Nelson said.

Corban student athletes are to be courteous and respectful. “Let your good deeds shine out for all to see.” [Matthew 5:16]

Corban student athletes are to look good, with proper attire and appropriate personal hygiene.

Corban student athletes are to play real hard. “Do the right thing, the right way,” Nelson said.

And No. 10, Corban student athletes give God the credit. “In every victory, let it be said of me, my source of strength, my source of hope, is Christ alone.” [From “In Christ Alone," written by Don Koch, Shawn Craig © 1990 Paragon Music Corporation]

“The purpose of Corban College is to educate Christians who will make a positive difference in the world for Jesus Christ,” Nelson said, referring to Matthew 28:19-20. “The goal of the Athletic Department is to train student-athletes through spiritual, academic, and athletic development to accomplish that purpose. Each coach strives for the goal by placing high priority and emphasis on the growth and improvement of the total student-athlete.”

See related story: http://www.corban.edu/news/2005-06/1214championsofcharacter.html