Grassroots sports chaplaincy has grown significantly over the past decade, fuelled by a desire to support the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of athletes, coaches, and sports communities. Initially concentrated in professional sports, chaplaincy provision has now expanded into local clubs, recreational leagues, gyms, and health clubs. These chaplains offer pastoral and spiritual care, guidance during challenging times, and a listening ear, aiming to help individuals navigate the pressures of sports, whilst sharing the love and compassion of God.
The rise of grassroots sports chaplaincy reflects the growing recognition of sports as not just a physical activity but a vital social and emotional space where individuals form lifelong relationships, grapple with challenges, and develop their identities. Chaplains play a key role in creating a supportive, holistic environment, to those of faith and no faith regardless of background, performance, or success within their sport.
This movement has gained significant momentum in the UK through the work of Sports Chaplaincy UK (SCUK). We already have a network of more than 800 established chaplains but through the 1000 Chaplain Challenge, aims to grow the placement of chaplains in various sports clubs and communities across the UK. SCUK believes that chaplaincy can positively influence all those within the community of sport. Our goal is to embed chaplains at every level of sports, from local amateur clubs to national leagues, so that everyone has access to pastoral and spiritual care.
Integral to the development of sports chaplaincy is the encouragement for local churches to engage with their local sports communities. National Sports Sunday, an annual event ( the next one is on 11 May 2025), provides a platform for churches to celebrate the role of sports in their communities and encourages them to pray for athletes, teams, clubs, and sports chaplains. This day serves as a reminder that churches can bridge the gap between faith and sports, emphasising that sports are an integral part of community life, not separate from spiritual growth.
By embracing National Sports Sunday and supporting initiatives like the 1000 Chaplain Challenge, local churches can become more deeply embedded in their communities. Grassroots sports chaplaincy nurtures not only athletic success but holistic personal growth, making it a powerful tool for outreach and ministry.
If you are already engaged with your local community sports club or gym and want more information about serving as a chaplain at grass roots level, please get in touch with Sports Chaplaincy UK.
Rev Christian Wienkamp is the Assistant National Director for Sports Chaplaincy UK in England and is the West Bromwich Albion F.C. Club Chaplain.
Meet the sports chaplains
Carolyn Skinner – Morden Baptist Church, Chaplain to YMCA Wimbledon gym
I spend time building relationships with the staff and members, by attending classes and joining coffee times. This leads to people wanting to meet with me one to one to talk through issues that they are facing. I also run a Wellbeing course for women. creating a safe space for honest discussion, giving time for self-care and introducing them to God’s perspective.
Alan Cable – Next Generation Church, Chaplain to Bexleyheath Golf Club
After a period away from professional golf, I returned in a new capacity, serving the club three or four half days a week. I have felt accepted by all and make myself available to staff and members. Through Sports Chaplaincy UK, I offer support, empathy, and pastoral care for everyone’s well-being.
Lance Blackwood – Legacy Church Walsall, Local Community Gym Chaplain
I’ve befriended people from diverse backgrounds at the gym, where conversations often lead to them sharing personal challenges. One staff member, feeling empty, asked about the Christian faith and requested prayer on the spot. Like the church, the gym has a community of regulars who need Jesus.
David Chawner – Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Chaplain to Northamptonshire County Cricket Club
Chaplaincy at Northants cricket has many facets including providing pastoral and spiritual support to players and staff, working with the recreational department with the Super 1’s disability group and on mental health for local clubs, chairing the Welfare Group, and various roles within the Supporters Club.
Sports Chaplaincy UK is a Charity and Network in Association with Churches Together in England.