Regent University’s commitment to building a successful athletics program is enhancing the college experience in a powerful new way. Students no longer are forced to give up their dream of playing collegiate sports when attending Regent. They don’t have to choose between a top-tier Christian education and fulfilling their sports aspirations. Now, they can have both!
“Running at a collegiate level was my dream since freshman year of high school, and now I’m finally living that dream,” says sophomore business and marketing major Tara Bland. “Originally, I didn’t want to come to Regent due to them not having track and field, which is a big part of my life. Although, I kept hearing God tell me that Regent University is where I need to be.”
She adds, “If you trust in God and follow the path He has for you, even if you don’t understand where it’s leading you, He is faithful and will ‘give you the desires of your heart’ (Psalm 37:4, NKJV).”
In addition to increasing the university’s profile and expanding its reach, all eight Royals teams are attracting new students, reconnecting alumni and uniting the entire Regent community. Whether it’s through their participation in men’s and women’s track and field, cross country and soccer; women’s volleyball or the cheer squad, Regent student-athletes engage in important, valuable and effective ways to help mold their Christian character and equip them to lead.
“For Regent, it’s a step further, and it’ll definitely attract a lot of students to the school,” says freshman English major Emily Nevala. “It’s not always about winning if you play hard and you do your best. It’s ultimately about giving Him the glory in everything we do.”
Joshua Schneider is a junior, majoring in international business. A member of Regent’s cross country and track and field teams, he’s enjoyed running his entire life. But intercollegiate sports aren’t something Schneider ever expected to be a part of. That changed when he became a Royal.
“It’s such a blessing,” Schneider shares. “It’s been challenging, and it’s stretched me physically, mentally and spiritually. … Being a part of the track team has taught me a lot about leadership. It’s taught me a lot about being an example. I want people to know that I’m not there just to run. My purpose is to build the Regent family and to build God’s kingdom.”
The costs associated with fielding more than a half dozen competitive teams are extensive and include equipment, uniforms, transportation and other expenses. But those investments are already paying big dividends.
“There’s a different kind of community, a different kind of dynamic with sports that bring people together from different cultures, different backgrounds in a way that other things on campus don’t necessarily do,” explains senior communications major Aubrea Shackleford.
“Support the vision,” she urges. “I believe in it, and I believe it’s going to grow into something huge. By investing, you’re investing in the future of our school. I think that’s the most important thing.”
Please consider supporting the university’s expanding athletics program with your best tax-deductible gift today. Donate $25 or more by December 31, 2017 and receive a FREE Royals T-shirt! To make a donation via electronic check or credit/debit card, visit regent.edu/supportathletics. And watch for the university’s special mailing with more information about how you can bless the Regent Royals through your year-end giving.
