St. Paul tells us (1 Cor. 9:24-25) life is a contest and the prize is Heaven.  In his words: “Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win. Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.”  The purpose of the Lincoln Catholic Athletic League is to instruct our children on how to connect the discipline of their spirit with the discipline of their mind and body.  We do so not to train future varsity athletes but to train disciples of Jesus Christ.  The prize is not winning a ribbon or a trophy; it is eternal life with God.  The League welcomes the participation of all eligible students, possessing whatever skill level or ability.

The Catholic Youth Sports League allows the students and coaches to create memories, learn invaluable skills, and engage in a school community that is bigger than oneself. Athletics give the unique opportunity for student athletes to not only develop skills of their sport but characteristics they will carry with them for a lifetime.

In collaboration with the committee members of the Catholic Youth Sports League, I look forward to providing the students entrusted to our care the opportunity to further identify, develop and share their God-given talents and gifts through athletic opportunities.  Additionally, I look forward in serving as a committee member, in partnership with our parents and other area Principals and Coaches, to further our faith through sportsmanship in the spirit of healthy competition.  St. Sebastian…Pray for Us!

I am most happy to serve on this committee as the principal and representative of St. Joseph’s. Athletics at the Junior High level serves not only the concepts of teamwork and healthy competition, but let’s student’s discover, in a unique way, the power and opportunity of witness that comes from being part of something greater than themselves. This, along with the self-discipline and sacrifice that comes from being a part of a team, help our students to prepare for a life of grateful service to God and neighbor. I am honored to be a part of this group.

Competition outside a healthy environment can be harsh on young, impressionable minds; but our Catholic Youth Sports League gives students an environment and leadership to thrive through competition. It pushes students to use their physical skill along with building the attributes that make a person a successful teammate and player. Using our faith as a corner stone, students are also shown the importance of morality and sportsmanship within competition.