Georgia Church Sees 120 Student Athletes Commit to Christ at Night of Champions Event
First Baptist Church of Hazlehurst, Georgia, hosted a Night of Champions outreach on July 16, drawing roughly 500 student athletes and 65 coaches from six counties. After the event, church leaders counted 120 decision cards from students making first-time professions of faith or rededications to Christ.
First Baptist Church of Hazlehurst, Georgia, counted 120 decision cards after hosting a Night of Champions outreach event on July 16, 2026.
The church partnered with Strength of a Champion Ministries to organize the gathering, which drew approximately 500 middle and high school student athletes along with 65 to 70 coaches from six local counties.
The event opened with a tailgate-style block party featuring games and meals. Former NFL quarterback Jake Fromm then addressed the coaches, urging them to recognize the influence they hold over young athletes. High school track coach Greg Nail spoke to the students about prioritizing God to handle the pressures teenagers face today.
After the event, church staff reviewed the decision cards and identified 120 students who had made first-time professions of faith or rededications to Christ.
Executive Pastor Philip Worthington said the church is following up with each student, providing Bibles and guiding them through next steps in their faith.
Pastor Brad Waters said the event aligned with the church's mission to "glorify Jesus Christ, grow disciples and go and fulfill the Great Commission."
More than 100 volunteers supported the event. Church leaders view it as a starting point for ongoing discipleship within the local athletic community.
