Huddles are often referred to as the “bread and butter” of FCA. From the very beginning, gathering together has been central to FCA’s mission and vision. 

The first FCA Huddle took place at the inaugural FCA camp in 1956, in Estes Park, Colorado. There, athletes gathered in small groups to read Scripture and pray with one another. This time of fellowship quickly became a cornerstone of the camp experience, as well as a key element in FCA growth and ministry. 

In 1966, the Huddle program was officially established, marking the beginning of a rich tradition where coaches and athletes not only deepened their relationship with Jesus but were also empowered to help others do the same. 

This powerful model of community has expanded, and today, FCA Huddles are taking place daily around the world—on campuses, fields, trails, courts, beaches, and in homes. Coaches and athletes continue to gather, growing as disciples who reflect Christ and inspire others to do the same.

At FCA we define a disciple as someone in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. Disciples of Jesus order their lives around His words, ways, and will so that they can follow in His steps. 

In Matthew 28:19–20, Jesus gave His followers the Great Commission: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.” 

This wasn’t just a command to pass on information—it was a call to form communities of people who live like Jesus. To “observe everything I have commanded” means to practice His ways—to live out His teachings, embody His character, and follow His example in real life. 

The Huddle exists to GATHER coaches and athletes, to GROW as disciples who don’t just learn about Jesus—but actually learn to live like Him. As we grow, we’re also called to GO—intentional to help others follow Jesus too. Disciples make disciples. The purpose of the Huddle is to GROW and GO. 

GROW represents personal transformation—how God works in you, shaping your heart, your character, and your relationship with Jesus. 

GO represents public multiplication—how God works through you, using your life to impact others and help them follow Jesus too.

In FCA there are two main categories of Huddles; Coaches Huddles and Athlete Huddles. Regardless of sport environment, or Huddle location all Huddles will be certified as either a Coaches Huddle or an Athlete Huddle in FCAOne.

Within those two categories, Huddles will come in different shapes and sizes from one-on-one discipleship meetings to large multi-sport gatherings, and everything in between.

If you're a coach or athlete interested in meeting one-on-one with an FCA team member or joining a Bible study, click the GET CONNECTED button and let us know how you want to be involved.