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More Losses than Wins

by Jeremy Martin '01

I stepped onto the Houghton campus filled with visions of basketball and glory. I graduated with more losses than wins, but with a much better idea of true victory. My idea of Christian competition developed during my time at Houghton. Coaches, professors and even administrators pushed me to progress and grow.

Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 9:24 to run the race to win. Christians should strive to succeed in all aspects of life, including athletics. However, even in the heat of the contest we must remember that we are not just competitors; we are Christians. The losses suffered in basketball games quickly revealed areas for improvement in my character.

Watching the grace with which some coaches and teammates carried themselves despite difficult situations was a constant example to me. Offering up physical gifts through athletics, when my heart was sincerely playing for God, was one of the purest worship experiences I have ever known.

Following graduation, I chose a career in athletics and accepted a position as assistant women's basketball coach at Emory University in Atlanta. Working at a secular school with athletes who often are not Christian is challenging, but full of opportunities. Every day brings a new chance to witness through my coaching and interaction with players and coworkers.

I often think back to those lessons learned

at Houghton. God willing, one day I will develop the restraint and composure of people like Coach Wells and Coach Lord. In the meantime, I remember the example of  Coach Lord and the women's basketball team, who would end every huddle with their cheer: "All for God." That is, perhaps, the greatest lesson that Houghton athletics taught me.