Effingham, IL – August 27, 2026 – Some of the most influential people in a young athlete’s life are the ones standing beside them at practice, in the huddle and on the sidelines.
Greater Effingham Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is building on those relationships by creating opportunities for coaches and athletes to grow in their faith, connect with others and carry those lessons with them long after the season ends.
The Effingham County Chamber welcomes FCA as one of its newest members, bringing greater awareness to a faith-based organization serving coaches and athletes in the area while offering several ways for the community to become part of its work.
FCA has a mission to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church, guided by four core values: integrity, serving, teamwork and excellence.
Locally, that mission comes to life through FCA Huddles, small-group Bible studies and devotion opportunities for coaches and athletes. FCA Camps combine athletic development with faith and relationship-building, while FCA Coaches Ministry provides huddles, events, training and resources specifically for coaches. FCA also offers opportunities to participate in international trips alongside FCA staff and partner organizations.
The focus on coaches is intentional. Their role often reaches far beyond teaching a sport, placing them in a unique position to encourage, mentor and influence young people during important years of their lives. FCA provides resources and relationships to support coaches as they navigate that responsibility.
And you don’t have to be the one wearing a jersey to be part of it.
Parents, volunteers, supporters and donors can also help Greater Effingham FCA continue creating opportunities for coaches and athletes throughout the area. Financial support helps provide the programs, resources, and experiences that make the ministry possible, while other opportunities allow community members to become involved directly.
For families who already know FCA from a school huddle or athletic program, there may be more happening behind those three letters than they realize. And for those discovering the organization for the first time, Greater Effingham FCA offers another way to invest in the young people and coaches who are part of our local communities.
Whether that means participating in a huddle, attending a camp, supporting a coach, volunteering or helping fund the ministry, there is more than one way to get involved.
To learn more about Greater Effingham FCA, explore opportunities to participate or donate, visit GreaterEffinghamFCA.org. For additional information, call 217-690-1005 or email KStortzum@FCA.org.
##
Pictured (front row left to right): Greater Effingham Area FCA Representatives Kyle Stortzum, Bryce Simcox & Krew Holsapple, Chamber Board Member + Greater FCA Board Member Matt Cekander, and Greater FCA Representative Kari Holsapple
Pictured (back row left to right): Chamber President & CEO Katie Koester and Chamber Membership Director Becky Brown