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Sports chaplaincy is a Christian cross-denominational service providing support for sports organizations. This includes sports men and women, administrators, supporters and family networks.
Why Chaplaincy?
Sports organizations and their welfare officers recognise that athletes are whole human beings. The condition of other areas of an athlete's life including unplanned circumstances can and do affect their performance, both on the field and in the public arena. Sporting demands can also have an impact on vocational responsibilities and relationships.
Through sports chaplains the welfare office makes pastoral care available for players, partners, families and staff, offering:
- a neutral person with whom to 'off load',
- support for staff as they facilitate and maintain positive, focused attitudes in athletes
Pastoral Care takes place through:
- the Chaplain just 'being there' and available;
- the Chaplain's personal assessment of the individual needs of an athlete;
- referral by, and in liaison with staff;
- outcomes from meeting with the Welfare Officer;
Pastoral Care happens in an ad hoc, informal way at training and social events, over the telephone, in hospital, or more formally on the basis of appointments.
SCA
SCA Australia Inc. (Sports and Leisure Ministries / Specialised Life-Orientated Ministries) is the main associated body that provides chaplains to a variety of sports around Australia. More on SCA.
Currently, most professional sports/teams in Australia have Christian chaplains. Over 150 chaplains now serve in sports organizations such as: Test and Shield Cricket, Motor Racing, Tennis, Rugby League, Australian Rules, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Golf, Yachting, Skiing, Netball, Rodeo and Horse Racing, the Australian Institute of Sport and State Institutes of Sport.
Becoming a Chaplain
It is recommended that people seeking to become a chaplain or who have been approached to become chaplains, do so with accreditation, or in association with SCA Australia. This provides individuals with a loose framework and support network in most regions around Australia.
Membership with SCA is not restricted to Chaplains: Membership is open to all athletes, sports officials, umpires/referees and those involved in sports administration or activity.
An Honour to Serve
In most cases sports chaplaincy in Australia is provided without remuneration. Positions are honorary and demand sensitivity and respect. This is probably the most dynamic aspect of chaplaincy in Australia. The neutrality and independence of chaplains enable them to touch base with athletes with little or no threat of control or threat to the athlete or their position. A freedom of service with great responsibility.
In light of this, chaplains are usually responsible for their own income and expenditure. Local church support and personal support is highly recommended.
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