"For some time, I have had the idea of forming an organization of athletes and coaches in this hero-worshiping nation of ours. If athletes can endorse shaving cream, razor blades and cigarettes, surely they can endorse the Lord, too. So my idea is to form an organization that would project you as Christian men before the youth and athletes of our nation."

Don McClanen

Don McClanen invitation letter quote

In a letter to 19 athletes, Don McClanen laid out his desire to form an organization that would eventually become the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

The letters were sent to:

– Red Barber, sports announcer
– Dean Cromwell, USC track coach
– Glenn Cunningham, world mile record holder
– Alvin Dark, New York Giants shortstop
– Carl Erskine, Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher
– Otto Graham, Cleveland Browns quarterback
– Tom Harmon, University of Michigan Heisman Trophy winner
– Roe Johnston, All-American end, Navy
– Bob Mathias, Olympic decathlon gold medal winner
– Donn Moomaw, All-American linebacker, UCLA
– Clarence “Biggie” Munn, head football coach, Michigan State
– Bob Richards, Olympic pole vault gold medal winner
– Branch Rickey, Pittsburgh Pirates executive
– Jack Robinson, All-American basketball player at Baylor, Olympic team captain
– Louie Zamperini, Olympic track star
– Amos Alonzo Stagg, legendary football coach, University of Chicago/College of the Pacific
– Dan Towler, Los Angeles Rams All-Pro fullback
– Doak Walker, Detroit Lions All-Pro halfback
– Bud Wilkinson, head football coach, Oklahoma

Back  Visit the FCA Timeline

  1. George Barber

    I believe it should be Louie Zamperini, Olympic star, WWII veteran, POW survivor and outspoken Christian later in life (smile)

  2. Tiffany Head

    Thank you for the inspiration and history of the FCA. It is an honor to be a part of a Valuable organization that is saving and building lives in Jesus Christ!!

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