Sept. 17, 2025

Rick McKinley – Loving God and Others Through Soccer

Rick McKinley – Loving God and Others Through Soccer

In Episode 180, Rick McKinley, Missionary Athletes International’s (MAI) Director of Int’l Tours. Shares with Phil and Paul his extensive journey through sports, including impactful stories from his days as an athlete, coach, and missionary. He discusses his commitment to integrating faith and soccer, describing significant moments that shaped his understanding of the Gospel and relying on God's strength. Key highlights include Rick’s impactful moments on mission trips, the importance of aligning personal identity with God rather than performance, and his efforts in training coaches globally to incorporate gospel-centered principles in their coaching methods. The episode also delves deep into personal stories, mentoring impacts, and recommended resources that have influenced Rick’s approach to leadership and faith. If you’re wanting to learn more about integrating sports and ministry, you definitely want to listen to this one.

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Uncut Video of the Episode

·      Warrior Way Soccer

·      Phil’s email for DISC Training

·      The Christian Athlete, Brian Smith

·      Lead with Prayer, Peter Greer, Ryan Skoog, Cameron Doolittle

·      A Hunger for God, John Piper

·      The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness, Tim Keller

·      The Mark of the Christian, Francis Schaffer

·      Horst Richardson HSEL Episode

·      Dave Irby HSEL Episode