Sport and Fitness Leadership

This course provides an overview of human development in the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual domains from conception to death in old age. Emphases include the ecological context of human development; biological and environmental influences on development; developmental anomalies and their impact on the individual and family; and implications of the knowledge of human development for Christian ministry, counseling, and family life education.

This course explores what it means for a person to be healthy in body, mind, spirit, and relationships. Students will learn the basics of how to maintain a healthy body within current medical standards by learning and implementing behavioral recommendations for managing stress, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular physical activity. Students will also learn techniques for maintaining healthy attitudes and relationships. All of these subjects will be taught within a framework of maintaining a healthy self in order to sustainably continue in God’s kingdom work.

The course serves as an introduction and foundation to the Sport and Fitness Leadership major. Students will examine how physical activity permeates all aspects of life. A strong emphasis will be placed on career exploration, career opportunities, and professional development. This will entail the creation of resumes and cover letters, bringing in guest speakers from the field of kinesiology, and enhancing student professionalism and leadership skills.

This course is devoted to assisting students in learning and using theoretical and practical information related to the psychology of sport and physical activity. Effective mental training skills for successful sport and life performance are also discussed. Lectures, labs, discussions, role playing, and guest speakers are used to illustrate the theoretical and applied foundations of sport psychology.

This course begins with a historical overview of the use of sports in Christian evangelism and discipleship (e.g. athletic metaphors of the apostle Paul, the “Muscular Christianity” of the Victorian era, and the contemporary Sports Ministry movement), along with biblical, theological, and philosophical foundations for sports ministry (a theology of competition, victory, unity, character formation, and sportsmanship). Students then explore a variety of proven methods and models for using sports to share Christ with youth and adults (church leagues, sports mission trips, training camps, and clinics). Successful sports ministry programs serve as case studies providing ideas, lessons, and inspiration for their own outreach efforts. Participants learn about resources and organizations that promote sports ministry (such as the Association of Church Sports and Recreation Ministers and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes), as well as professional opportunities in the field.

An introduction to the structure and function of the human body, this course is designed for students pursuing health-related fields or majoring in Life Sciences. Course topics begin with discussions of organic chemicals and cells before progressing to tissues, organs, and body systems, including the integumentary, skeletal, articular, muscular, and nervous systems.  Discussions will include the significance of system homeostasis upon organismal function and will also encourage students to integrate an increased understanding of the body into a Christian worldview. The course includes lecture and integrated laboratory applications each week.

This culminating course for the Sports & Fitness Leadership Major focuses on legal, ethical, and professional standards for sports professionals. It gives attention to issues related to church, school, and community settings.

The interactive seminar introduces the parameters of the internship experience and provides an in-depth look at various internship settings. The seminar includes a discussion of student requirements, responsibilities, policies, expectations, and support prior to and during the internship. Topics include professional etiquette and behaviors, an overview of workplace policies and laws, and enhancing professional development competencies. Seminar students construct professional goals and objectives and then research and contact prospective practicum site supervisors. By the conclusion of the seminar, students are required to secure a practicum site and supervisor who agrees to supervise, mentor, and evaluate the student during the internship experience. The Internship Orientation is a prerequisite for the internship; the Internship Orientation is recommended to be taken the term immediately before doing the internship.

Students integrate theory, praxis, and faith through a supervised leadership experience in a church, school, or community setting. Journaling and small group discussions facilitate reflection, mentoring, and growth. The internship experience may be between 3-12 credit hours (3 hours minimum are required).

This course includes an overview of the roles, qualifications, responsibilities, and skills required of coaches during the season and off-season. It addresses principles and philosophies of coaching, as well as issues affecting coaches both on and off the field.