Kayla Clausen, Boise State University

This story appears in FCA Magazine’s July/August 2015 issue. Subscribe today!

Hometown: Irvine, Calif.
Class: Senior

Position: Outfield
Note: As a junior in 2015, finished second on the team in batting average, runs scored and stolen bases.

“We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.” – Romans 8:28

Playing softball since she was five years old, Boise State senior Kayla Clausen dives into the heart of Christ with her teammates both on and off the diamond. Finding joy in fellowship and worship, the Irvine, Calif., native desires to share her journey with as many others as possible along the way.

FCA: What is the most difficult part about being a Division I athlete?

KC: Athletes really don’t have as much free time as normal college students. Time management is definitely a big factor when you have to manage so many other things: finding time to eat, doing homework, and making sure you get enough sleep every night so you’re healthy and ready to go. We’re definitely held to a higher standard as athletes; we’ve got to really stick to what’s going to benefit us the most instead of what’s going to give us the most enjoyment.

FCA: What do you enjoy most about playing softball?

KC: I love the challenge. I love the game. It is a game of failure, which is really trying for some people. The whole struggle and being able to overcome it is a really rewarding process. All the time and effort, the blood, sweat and tears you put in every practice, every weightlifting session in the morning—it all really pays off once you get back on the field with your team.

FCA: How has being a part of a team helped shape your faith?

KC: I’m with my teammates all the time. They know everything I'm going through. Having open conversations about faith and the team and any struggle we’re going through really translates into strengthening relationships with each other and with God.

You’re never alone in your faith. God is always there for you, but having a physical person who’s there and can give you an immediate response definitely helps.

FCA: How have you been involved with FCA?

KC: I was involved with FCA at my high school in California, so it was great to find it here, too. A few weeks into it they asked me to be a part of the leadership team. We have Huddles every Monday night, and I feel honored and blessed because I think one of my spiritual gifts is being able to minister to the younger students, being a voice of reason and leadership, and also being a friend.

FCA: How have you seen God grow you?

KC: The most growth I’ve seen is my ability to voice my faith versus just showing it. As part of FCA leadership I’ll pray in front of an entire group of people and speak and give messages at some of our FCA meetings.

Getting involved more this year has had a huge impact and really changed my heart. I trust God knows exactly where He wants me and exactly what He needs me to do to be my best self and bring as many people along with me as I can.

FCA Volunteer Quote:

“Kayla has been a great role model and leader in our FCA Huddle on campus. Her heart for worship and to serve God and people is providing her with a great platform that she is using to impact her generation for the glory of God.”

-Mark Thornton, BSU FCA Volunteer/Board Member

-FCA-

–This article appears in the July/August 2015 issue of FCA Magazine. To view the issue digitally, click here: July/August 2015 FCA Mag Digital 

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Photos courtesy of Boise State Photo Services