OCALA, FL (352today.com) – It was about bringing athletes in the community together in the name of Christ.

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Night of Champions, presented by Advent Health, took place on April 25, 2025, at Ocala First Assembly of God. The event brought athletes and students from across Marion County together for a night of fellowship, fun, and faith.

“The Night of Champions started six or seven years ago, actually hosted it here, and now it’s part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Marion County,” said Beef Bernard, Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ director for Marion, Citrus and Putnam Counties. “We reach on any given week about 2,300 kids, in different huddles and team ministries. This is our annual event where we get to share the Gospel, worship and encourage coaches and kids.”

More than 600 people RSVP’d for the event. The strong turnout created a perfect opportunity to network, form friendships, and connect through a powerful message centered on Christ.

“We have kids from all of our schools, and we have great relationships with our coaches,” said Bernard. “Our goal tonight is to help people find Jesus and be encouraged in their faith.”

Westport and Dunnellon High School students gather.
Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today

J.B. Bynum, who took over as head coach of the Dunnellon Tigers football program this past winter, emphasized the value of the Night of Champions.

“It’s always a great event,” said Bynum. “I’ve had the privilege of attending the event the last couple of years. I’m blessed to be able to bring my boys here representing Dunnellon with our pastor Tom (Golden, River Life Church).”

The event also highlighted the deeper meaning of faith in a student-athlete’s personal growth and future.

“I’ve seen it, been a part of it, speaking at it. It’s what the foundation of what everybody needs, especially a student athlete, understanding that they have a gift to play this game,” said Clint Hart, Trinity Catholic head football coach, who enjoyed a distinguished career in the NFL as a defensive back.

The evening encouraged athletes to connect with their spiritual side and find a greater sense of purpose.

“It’s super important, and ado that and be reminded that it’s not about you, it’s about something larger than you, and the game is bigger than you,” said Hart. “It’s going to continue going without you, it’s what you have after the game. It’s really important to say, ‘I embraced Jesus Christ through my journey of playing,’ whatever level that may be at.”

The athletes themselves appreciated the opportunity to share fellowship and faith.

“We did it last year, and just learning from people who went to the next level, with them giving us tips on life,” said Terrance Lewis, a sophomore at Vanguard who plays quarterback. “It means a lot. It brings us together and we get out in the community, and they develop us as young men, showing us how to come up and praising God.”

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