Mike Leazer - Embracing the Vision

In the intersection of faith and sports, Mike Leazer, the Atlanta Multi-Area Director of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), embodies a commitment to transformation. His journey within FCA reflects FCA's vision: "To see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes," and mission: "To lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church." Since 2007, Mike's journey evolved from coaching basketball to ministry, leading him to FCA. His dedication spans roles from South Carolina to East Cobb, always empowering Christian athletes.

Mike envisions FCA Atlanta fully embracing its mission to guide every coach and athlete toward a deeper relationship with Christ. This commitment extends to schools like Walton High, where character talks sparked a desire in student-athletes to start a Bible study. 

“It started August of last year through a senior football player at Walton, saying, ‘Hey, why don't we do a Bible study?’ It started with four or five guys showing up at a Mellow Mushroom on a Wednesday night. And then throughout the year that grew to, 15 or so. Sometimes we just cut up and joke around and then share a biblical truth in that. Other times we could get into heavier topics. We're talking about dealing with anxiety, pressure, and demand to perform—how to achieve and keep Christ at the center. It took six years, but to see a campus where we had very little ministry presence to now, we have several Bible studies, small groups, and character-coach-led teams on campus is becoming one of the stronger communities that we have in the East Cobb area.”

The shift from surface-level engagement to authentic discipleship exemplifies the profound impact FCA can have within schools.

Reflecting on the challenges faced by FCA Atlanta, Mike acknowledges the need for adaptation amidst evolving ministry landscapes. However, he views these transitions as opportunities to expand FCA's reach into uncharted territories of ministry. From exploring club sports leagues to catering to differently-abled athletes, FCA Atlanta aims to diversify its impact beyond traditional campus ministries.

As Mike Leazer and the FCA Atlanta team pave the way for future growth, their commitment to serving every coach and athlete underscores the organization's enduring mission of faith, fellowship, and empowerment.