Heart of an Athlete
May 2009

C.J. Sandmann Indiana Wesleyan University Baseball, Outfield/Pitcher

Chosen Attribute: Perseverance

Dictionary definition: "Steady persistence in a course of purpose."

My definition: "The times when life knocks you down, and you continue to get up and work harder to get past those obstacles."

Who has encouraged me to persevere: "My parents have always been there for me when I have struggled. They push me through everything in school and have taught me to never give up and to always give my best effort."

Favorite Scripture that deals with perseverance: Philippians 4:13 – "I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me."

Why I chose this passage: "This verse has gotten me through many different struggles in my life and has made me stronger. It lets me know that God is always with me, carrying me through both the tough times and the good times. I actually write the verse reference on the bill of my baseball hat so that when I'm struggling on the field I can look up and see it."

"God is always with me, carrying me through both the tough times and the good times."

How I learned to persevere in life: "Perseverance has been the story of my life. For some reason I was often picked on in school. Throughout those times of hurt I would lie in bed and wonder why I had to go through that pain. It was so bad at times that I actually wanted my parents to move so I could go to a different school.

"As I look back now, I realize that God allowed those things to happen for a reason. Those kids presented me with obstacles I had to overcome. I am now able to reach out to my little brother and other kids who are dealing with the same name-calling and bullying that I did. I can encourage them just to ignore the words and not say anything back."

How I've learned to persevere in sports: "Growing up, I had several people tell me that I would never go anywhere in sports because I wasn't good enough. During my junior year of high school, I was told that I wasn't talented enough to play college ball, and I was taken out of the lineup. I only got to play in one more game during the rest of the season. But that situation only pushed me to try harder.

"By God's grace, I'm now playing at Indiana Wesleyan, where I am able to bring glory to God every time I step on the field. My coaches and teammates are both supportive and encouraging. We all work together and help each other not only in baseball, but in our relationships with the Lord.

"With God's power, I was able to get through those hard times in high school, and now I feel like I am closer to God and playing the best I ever have."

About the Athlete: Hometown: Frankfort, Ill. Class: Freshman Position: Outfield/Pitcher Height: 5-11 Bats/Throws: R/R Career Highlight: • Earned his first collegiate win in March against Concordia (Mich.) University FCA Involvement: Sandmann started attending FCA in middle school and soon joined the Huddle's leadership team. He credits FCA for helping solidify his ability to play for God and push through the difficult times he faced in his life and playing career. "FCA gives me an opportunity to share my passion for God and develop great, Christian friendships," Sandmann said. "It has helped me get through some of the roughest patches in my life." FCA Staff Quote: "Because of the impact of FCA, C.J. is seeking the Lord in all he does through his life and sport. His story of trials and tests are so honoring to God, and he truly gives Him the glory for where he is today." – FCA's Sue Crawford

--For more stories about faith and sport, visit www.sharingthevictory.com, the official magazine of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. To subscribe to STV, click here.

Photos courtesy of the University of Louisville, Kathy Sandmann.