At the recent NFCYM membership meeting in Austin Texas, the membership affirmed the National Center for Catholic Youth Sports (NCCYS) project without reservation. Since that moment in the Heart of Texas, much has happened.
- Mike Mullen, Archdiocese of Philadelphia, was contracted by the Federation to head the leadership team
- The Center for Sport, Spirituality, and Character Development at Neumann College has partnered with NCCYS by agreeing to host the planning meeting in June.
- The leadership team has been formed, and the twelve member committee will meet at Neumann College, Aston, Pennsylvania, June 25-27
- Mike Mullen facilitated a brief in-service with the Federation staff on February 17
- The work of preparing a national launch for NCCYS at NCCYM in Pittsburgh is underway
Much of the initial work of the leadership team will focus on articulating the mission for the Center and creating the strategies that will allow the mission to be achieved.
There are well over one million children playing sports in Catholic sponsored leagues around the country, and at times we fail to distinguish ourselves as a ministry of church. We begin with the best of intent, and yet the sway of the larger sports culture slowly infiltrates our programs. Winning becomes more important than serving. Trophies become coveted more than opportunities for grace, and fame and glory are sought without regard for character and morality. The good news is that the large majority of athletes, coaches, administrators, and parents want a Catholic experience of sports for themselves and their children.
The National Center for Catholic Youth Sports intends to meet the challenges faced in the Catholic youth sports arena by developing resources in support of diocesan, parish, and school administrators who are working to create a Catholic youth sports experience that reflects Gospel values and calls all involved into a closer relationship with Christ.
As we begin this very exciting journey, we need your prayers and support. If you are able to assist the leadership team with their work, or you would like to learn more about this project, contact Mike Mullen at nccysports@yahoo.com.