Catholic Athletes for Christ

06/11/2026

The season began with eight teams competing at the Annual CAC Showcase, an inspiring weekend where student athletes came together in prayer, fellowship, and reflection. The event featured a keynote from JJ Niekro, along with opportunities for adoration and confession, before culminating in the sport they are most passionate to play. The competition was intense and exciting, showcasing the dedication and talent of each team.

As the season now draws to a close, we are proud to see three of the eight teams advance to the state level.

Additionally, during our gathering at Day Air Ballpark for several marquee rivalry games, including Alter versus Chaminade Julienne and St. Xavier versus Moeller, we were blessed to share a meaningful moment of community as many joined together in praying the rosary between games. We extend our congratulations to both Moeller and St. Xavier on advancing to the state tournament.

As we wrap up an outstanding season, we commend all teams for their hard work and achievements, and we wish Walsh Jesuit, Badin, St. Xavier, and Moeller continued success as they pursue a strong finish.

06/11/2026

https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/in-the-clubhouse-with-christ-the?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

What is it like to be a chaplain for a major league team?

06/07/2026

Been fun journeying with Owen all season on our weekly college baseball calls! Conversation coming soon with the Tar Heel Hero who sent them to Omaha!

06/05/2026

When it comes to actively engaging with God’s plan, Garrett Bernardo and NOVUS are a great model.

It was a pleasure to sit down with Garrett to hear how NOVUS went from a side hustle in college to a growing premium sportswear company today.

The Lord had a plan for Garrett and this brand and it was fun to hear how that has played out from youth to today.

Listen to the full episode now: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0M5IcLdEQJdUreesbM58wM?si=srMIQsvRT_SStVv_RvGZgg

06/04/2026

This High School Season we have hosted 10 Catholic High School baseball teams from around Ohio in two events focused on playing the game we all love with their Faith.

During these events they have heard a witness talk from a former professional baseball player while spending time in fellowship with other teams, they have spent time in Adoration, Confession, and the Eucharist, and they have prayed a Rosary with friendly league rivals in a premiere Minor League ballpark!

Today, 4 of those teams play for an opportunity to make the State Final 4 and one already clinched yesterday!

Good Luck to Badin, Hoban, Walsh Jesuit, and St. Xavier today in their Regional Final games! Congrats to Moeller on their win yesterday!

06/01/2026

Today, Catholic Athletes for Christ announces that Trevor Williams, pitcher for Major League Baseball’s (MLB) Washington Nationals, is the recipient of the organization’s 2026 Courage Award.

The CAC Courage Award is presented to the athlete whose words and deeds exemplify a deep and abiding commitment to the Catholic faith and the teachings and life of Christ. Past Courage Award recipients included San Diego Padres Manager Craig Stammen, former Los Angeles Angels player and MLB executive Deacon Darrell Miller, former Washington Nationals hitting coach Rick Eckstein, and long-time National Hockey League (NHL) senior referee Kerry Fraser.

CAC’s President and Founder Ray McKenna, “Trevor Williams has been a visible and vibrant defender of his Catholic faith for many years and has spoken courageously on its behalf when it has been attacked and ridiculed. His love and public advocacy for Jesus and his Church epitomizes the values that underlie the Courage Award.”

The 2026 Courage Award will be presented to Williams in the Washington, DC area later this year.
For more information on CAC, please visit www.catholicathletesforchrist.org.

05/25/2026

Always excited to see two of our young players meet up during the season! Ivan Brethowr (Pirates Organization) and Bennett Lee (Tigers Organization) have attended our Baseball Retreat the past two years and continue stay involved throughout the season! So blessed to walk with these and all our friends in baseball!

God Bless everyone this Memorial Day!

05/20/2026

“This morning at Cathedral Catholic High School, in San Diego, our brother in Christ Craig Stammen spoke to over 350 men at “cup of Joe“ where we embrace the virtues of Saint Joseph. So cool to see Craig using his platform that God has given him to bring Christ to so many people. Craig did this early this morning at 6:30 AM after a long night at PetCo Park in a battle with the LA Dodgers. Heroic virtue being lived out through the Holy Spirit like a 2026 Pentecost!!!”
- Mike Sweeney, Kansas City Royal Hall of Famer and Chair of the CAC Athlete Advisory Board.