On Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Campus Movement (CAMO) hosted its weekly Connect Athletics event in the Lincoln Residence Hall (LRH) Great Room from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. The gathering, which takes place every Wednesday, is designed to bring together UIS athletes who share a Christian faith for fellowship, Bible study, and reflection.
Representatives from several athletic programs including basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, cross country, track, golf, and volleyball attended the session.
“Connect Athletics is CAMO and FCA [Fellowship of Christian Athletes] partnering together for UIS athletes to come together and build relationships with not just their own teammates, but other teammates on campus,” said Aaron Vasquez, CAMO Director.
The event provides a welcoming space for Christian athletes to connect over both faith and sports. Through guided discussions and scripture readings, participants reflect on how their athletic journeys align with their spiritual beliefs.
Alexis Schwartz, a member of the UIS volleyball team, said the program reminds athletes to keep faith at the center of their game.
“We came to the event for FCA, which is the Fellowship of Christian Athletes,” Schwartz explained. “It reminds us that we have our sport, but all we can do is play for Christ. He gives us all the opportunities we have.”
Her teammate, Bella Hodgens, echoed that sentiment.
“Like Alexis said, we play for Christ overall,” Hodgens said. “He helps us get through our wins, our losses, even our injuries. No matter what, He’s always there for us.”
Participants received a handout titled “Seven Reasons Jesus is Bigger Than Sports,” which highlighted spiritual principles such as ‘Jesus Gives Eternal Victory,’ ‘Jesus Defines True Identity,’ ‘Jesus Provides Lasting Purpose,’ ‘Jesus Models Leadership,’ ‘Jesus Sustains Through Suffering,’ ‘Jesus Builds Unbreakable Brotherhood,’ and ‘Jesus Secures the Ultimate Reward.’
Vasquez emphasized that Connect Athletics was created to foster community and spiritual growth.
“The idea is to create a space for Christian athletes at UIS to bond, have fun, do Bible studies together, and grow in their faith all while connecting as athletes on this campus,” he said.
UIS students interested in faith-based community events can join Connect Athletics every Wednesday night in the LRH Great Room. CAMO also hosts a variety of other Christian-centered gatherings open to all students, with details available on the UIS Connections page.
