Athletic Shepherd
The Athletic Shepherd ministry at Liberty University provides a unique opportunity for graduate students to engage with LU coaches and athletes helping to cultivate their spiritual growth and development. Athletic Shepherds serve as spiritual leaders to help build community and equip student-athletes to practically live out their faith both on and off the field. The Office of LU Shepherd oversees these student leaders and offers distinctive mentorship, training, and coaching to both guide them in their roles as spiritual leaders, as well as support them in their own personal journey with Christ.
Students in this leadership position pursue various degree programs while at Liberty. The Athletic Shepherd ministry specifically allows students to see their role in the Great Commission through their relationships, their vocation, and their passions, no matter their future pursuits.
Become an Athletic Shepherd
Eligibility
To become an Athletic Shepherd, you must be able to meet or exceed the following expectations:
1. Leadership Expectations
- Mature and growing disciple of Jesus, well-grounded in Scripture
- Solid reputation, living a life above reproach
- Able to articulate and communicate the gospel effectively
- Active member of the local church, and/or under the watch-care of a local church in the Lynchburg area
- Knowledgeable about the mission and purpose of the church
- Genuine love for people with demonstrated relational skills
- Ability to both challenge and encourage others in their walk with the Lord
- Humble demeanor and a teachable spirit
- Consistent and reliable
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Committed to the purpose of the Athletic Shepherd Ministry reflecting the vision, values, and mission of The Office of Spiritual Development and LU Shepherd
- Previous student leadership experience is preferred but not required
- Previous athletic experience is preferred but not required
2. Academic and Conduct Standards
- Athletic Shepherd is a graduate scholarship position.
- Must be accepted to or enrolled in Liberty University during the application process
- Sets the standard as a leader in the area of academics. This includes setting an example in study habits, homework, class attendance, and a positive attitude toward professors and classes
- Maintain a 3.0 GPA as a full-time student in a Liberty University Graduate Program
3. Availability to Carry Out Responsibilities
- Applicants in certain academic programs that could pose a significant challenge to fulfilling Athletic Shepherd responsibilities will be evaluated more closely.
- The Athletic Shepherd schedule during the academic year has certain blackout days that Athletic Shepherds are required to be on campus. These include but are not limited to Orientation Training, Retreats, and other events directed or promoted by the Office of Spiritual Development and the Office of LU Shepherd
- NCAA student-athletes currently on a sports program roster can apply to be an Athletic Shepherd, however, are not eligible to receive the Graduate Shepherd tuition and dining plan.
2023-24 Calendar of Selection Process
- Wednesday, November 1, 2023 | Applications Open
- Monday, February 12, 2024 | Applications Deadline (Midnight)
- Monday, February 19, 2024 – Friday, March 1, 2024 | Interviews
- Friday, March 8, 2024 | Athletic Shepherd Team Reveal
- Friday, March 29, 2024 | Contract Signing Day
To apply or for more information on our Athletic Shepherd program, please contact PJ Preston in LU Shepherd.
PJ Preston, Director – Athletic Shepherd | laprestonjr@liberty.edu