Since 2012, Mason has served on FCA staff as a representative on the campus of UNC, focusing on providing spiritual guidance, mentorship and support to players, coaches and staff as the Chaplain for UNC’s football program. In 2020, Mason’s life took a difficult turn when he was diagnosed with idiopathic small fiber neuropathy, a debilitating nerve condition that causes pain, weakness, seizures and mobility challenges. Despite the physical limitations and uncertainty that came with the illness, Mason remains committed to his role as a steadfast chaplain, continuing to counsel and encourage all those around him, while navigating his own health struggles.
On October 4, FCA President and CEO Shane Williamson attended a special acknowledgement and dedication to Mason at the UNC football game against Clemson, where the university honored him with the Mitch Mason Inspiration Deck alongside his wife Chondra, his family and many North Carolina FCA staff.
“Mason’s perseverance to not let his illness steer him away from sharing the Gospel serves as an example of strength and faith for coaches and athletes, not just at UNC, but around the world,” said Williamson. “Having been described as a father figure by those whom he has impacted, Mason’s resilience and trust in the Lord are actively deepening his legacy. Young football players not only see Mason as their Chaplain, but as a leader who braves challenges with strength and integrity.”
As a chaplain, Mason serves many roles within the Tar Heel football program, offering Biblical encouragement, listening to players’ frustrations and supporting those facing personal challenges. Above all, he points everyone to Jesus as life’s most important relationship, living in a way that reflects God’s glory, not his own.
Former players often cite three key impacts of Mason’s ministry: guiding the team through the loss of teammate Tylee Craft, inspiring them to “Keep Swinging” through adversity, something he models amid his own health struggles and encouraging staff and players to persevere at UNC, leading to success in football, academics and life.
Before coming to Chapel Hill, Mason was Associate Pastor at FreeWay Church in Clemson, S.C., Campus Minister at Clemson University and mentor with Clemson Football’s TigerHood program. He earned degrees in English and Theological Studies from Southwestern Assemblies of God University and is an ordained Reverend. He also served as a crisis counselor at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
From 1993 to 1996, Mason was a two-time All-American cornerback at Missouri Western State University, graduating with a school record 16 interceptions. After making NFL camp rosters as a free agent, he played and coached in the Arena League, later coaching at Army in 2009. He was inducted into the Missouri Western Hall of Fame in 2014.
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Photos courtesy of FCA staff and ANDY MEAD ANDY MEAD/ UNC Athletics