Chandler High School is home to many diverse and interesting clubs, with a shining example of that being the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, or FCA for short. FCA is sponsored by Mr. Daniel Vander Valk, who is one of the baseball coaches for the Chandler High team. The FCA meets every other Thursday at 6:30am in the lobby of the Payne Gym.
Recently, we had the pleasure of interviewing two of their members, DJ Vander Valk, Jr. and Yale Johnson, to get an inside look at the FCA. Yale Johnson is a senior and a varsity baseball player, as well as an active member of the student body. DJ Vander Valk, Jr. is a junior and a member of the baseball team who played for JV last year. Both DJ and Yale were members of FCA last year and now serve as FCA youth leaders. When asked why they joined, DJ told us, “My love of God and athletics guided my choice to join.” Yale added that “spreading an important message to a great community” is what motivates him.
FCA often features guest speakers at their meetings, primarily athletes with faith-based backgrounds. During the meetings, members engage in athletic activities, followed by a time of reflection on religion, typically led by the guest speakers.
DJ explained that the club supports current and new members by “showing up for them and giving them support in a godly way.” Members of FCA often attend Chandler High’s sporting events to show their support for fellow members and offer guidance on balancing academic, athletic, and religious lives.
DJ and Yale both said that FCA helped them put sports and school into a larger perspective. DJ said, “I feel like I can be more open to sharing my faith with others and carrying out my life in a godly manner.” Yale added, “I have an understanding thanks to FCA that when I step out on the field, I’m not doing it for myself or others, but for the glory of God. I’ve learned to grow my connection to God through the FCA.”
FCA is always accepting new members and invites everyone to join, regardless of whether you consider yourself an athlete or whatever your faith. “The only requirement is to be open to learning,” Yale said.
For more information, you can find them on Instagram @chandlerhighfca or drop by one of their meetings filled with fun, faith, and fellowship at 6:30 AM in the Payne Gym lobby every other Thursday. “Stop by and say hi, grab a donut, and learn how to grow your relationship with God,” said DJ. He and Yale hope to see you there!
