Christian Research Association Page 1

Christian Research Association Research Paper No. 13 ISBN 978-1-875223-77-0 September 2013

The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia Stephen Reid and Philip Hughes

David & Narelle Vaughan, Motorsports chaplaincy. Photo courtesy of SCA, used with permission. Contents

Introduction 2 Current literature and research 2 Models of chaplaincy in sport 3 The research 4 Concluding comments 13 References 16

Australians love sport. Over a span of two centuries, much has been written about how this love affair has shaped the national identity. In Australia’s history, sport has played an important role in the good and the bad times. It is recorded, for example, that Australians played Aussie Rules and cricket on the battlefields of Gallipoli. Australians pride themselves on their reputation to compete on the international stage. Australia is one of only a handful of countries to have participated in every Summer Olympic Games. It has been argued that Australians regard sport as sacred to their way of life, an obsession that contributes to a collective sense of meaning in life, an “essential component that contributes to their story” (Cheong, pp.237- 238). In this regard, sport has sometimes been referred to as the Australian religion. At other times, it has been suggested that sport provides an alternative to religion in providing identity, meaning and belonging.

In late 2012 and early 2013, the Christian Research Association, in a jointly funded venture with MCD University of Divinity, and supported by Sports Chaplaincy Australia, undertook a pilot research project investigating chaplaincy in sport.

© Christian Research Association, PO Box 206, Nunawading LPO, Victoria, 3131. Phone: +61 3 8819 0123 Email: [email protected] Web: www.cra.org.au Page 2 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia Introduction of heath care chaplains considered decision-making assistance an important aspect of their role (Carey The general manager of a rural football league & Cohen, 2009). Other studies have shown there has his office in his house, which was originally are cost benefits of hospital chaplaincy, high level the manse to one of the churches in the town. The satisfaction by patients, and widespread affirmation church buildings and manse were sold off many of a chaplain’s role in hospitals (Carey, 2000). years earlier as the rural community saw increasing numbers of people moving out of the town to the Research undertaken by Edith Cowan University regional centres and cities. Making a living was into the effectiveness of government-funded school not easy in that rural town. Some may say that one chaplains (Hughes & Sims, 2009) found that religion, which had become outdated and largely chaplaincy in schools offered a special contribution irrelevant to a lot of people, had been replaced to school welfare in the following ways: by another, the football league, which provided • chaplains were proactive in their approach to community and support for people in the area. welfare; • they were readily accessible to all students and Where once the church was the hub of community teachers; and social life in many Australian suburbs and • they were unaligned to a particular church towns, the sporting clubs have become vital in and, because they were not employed by the linking a community. For many people, sport school, were seen as ‘neutral’ within the school provides an environment where they can connect administrative structure; with people with similar interests. For some, sport • they could offer holistic support; is one of their commitments in life and also provides • they were flexible in their roles; meaning and focus. • they offered a values-based approach to pas- toral care; and, In the last few decades, Christians in Australia • they had important networks of support have provided a unique contribution to people through local church connections. in the world of sport, from grass roots clubs to professional sporting organisations, through Because of these characteristics, chaplains were sports chaplaincy. It is a growing form of ministry. making a significant impact within their schools. Chaplaincy in general is very good at providing low level pastoral care, primarily through building In some schools, chaplains use sport as a means supportive relationships. For sports chaplains, sport of building relationships with students and their is the primary context in which they build their families. For example, chaplains played football relationships and offer pastoral care. with students at luncthime. They took part in school sports days. They got involved in coaching Other forms of chaplaincy have also grown in the school sporting teams. Sport is one of many past few decades. There are chaplains in schools, possible avenues through which a chaplain gets to industries, prisons, hospitals, and some have know students outside of the context of particular even been employed by local councils. Apart from problems (Hughes & Sims, 2009). the military, some hospitals and some schools, chaplaincy is usually non-denominational. It is For sports chaplains, however, sport is the primary generally non-demanding of the people it ministers context in which they build their relationships. to. That is, chaplains do not generally require a religious or spiritual commitment from the people Current literature and research to whom they offer pastoral care. In a variety of contexts chaplaincy provides low level care While there is a lot of literature covering sport, and friendship to people in need. Research into spirituality and chaplaincy in Australia, there is chaplaincy in different contexts in Australia has little literature specifically addressing the subject of provided evidence of its positive effects. chaplaincy within the sporting context.

In a study of clinical staff from the Royal Children’s Roger Lipe, an American sports chaplain, offers a Hospital in Melbourne, researchers found that succinct introduction to sports chaplaincy in his health professionals valued having resident hospital short workbook for sports chaplains, Transforming chaplains because they provided assistance to Lives in Sport (2006). Although written in the medical staff with teamwork, religious and psycho- American context, there are some useful insights social support to patients and staff, and specialist for chaplains which could be applied to Australia. support to families and staff at difficult times. The Particularly helpful is his discussion around the study also found that chaplains provided input into term ‘sports chaplain’, suggesting that other terms, ethical decision-making, community networking, such as Evangelist Chaplain, Pastoral Chaplain, and communication and emotional comfort within Sport Mentor, could be used in different settings, a world which patients often found complex and depending upon the approach being used. sometimes frightening (Carey, 2000). The majority Christian Research Association Page 3

The Pontifical Council for the Laity of the Catholic Australian Christianity (Tydall, p.365). He points Church has published an informative book based to the success of the church’s involvement at the on seminars given at a conference dedicated to the Sydney Olympic Games – the ‘largest evangelistic theme of sports chaplaincy, from a Catholic and sports outreach in Australia’ – and attributes that mainly European perspective. Its contributors offer success to the leaders of the sports ministries which insightful theological and practical reflections on the emerged in the 1980s. ‘pastoral ministry of sport’. The authors argue for the Church’s (Catholic Church) serious involvement Models of chaplaincy in sport in the world of sport through education and pastoral ministry. They see benefits and potential Elite sportswomen and sportsmen are popular role for engagement, and align many of their reflections models. They have a unique – often unwarranted, with teachings and papal encyclicals. Much of the and sometimes unwanted – duty to perform as information is relevant to sports chaplaincy in role models off the field. While they are human Australia, and indeed many other countries. Specific beings with incredible skills in the sporting arena, themes around the importance of lay involvement often they are not so different from the rest of in sports ministries, and chaplains working the population in other aspects of life. This is the collaboratively with each other, they fit well with the context out of which which Sports Chaplaincy sports chaplaincy model currently used in Australia. Australia (SCA), formerly Sports and Leisure Ministries (SLM), arose. There was a need to In addition to published material, a handful of provide a ministry to professional sports people, studies of sports chaplaincy have been undertaken taking into account their specific situation and in the Australian context. needs. SCA has evolved into an organisation offering support to a much broader range of levels, across In 2005, the chaplain to the Melbourne Storm numerous sports. NRL club, Grant Stewart, completed his Master’s thesis: A Theological and Pastoral Exploration The director of SCA has identified three styles of of the Role of Sports Chaplains in Australia. It sports chaplaincy: was summarised as an occasional paper in Zadok (Stewart, 2012). The thesis provides a positive • traditional (denominational), contribution to research in the area. Stewart argues • professional (paid), and, that the role of the chaplain fits into some of the • volunteer (relational). concepts used in church ministry, and that sports An intentional policy of SCA is that their chaplains chaplains need to “unlearn the ‘churchy’ language, use the volunteer style, and so all its chaplains serve set aside the false dichotomy of secular and sacred in an honorary and casual capacity. SCA chaplains and be more ready to listen and be present” are appointed to a club, and yet are not part of that (Stewart, 2012, p.14). Speaking from a personal club’s staff, management or governing structures. perspective as a chaplain, he has found that sports SCA represents around 300 chaplains in all states, chaplaincy has challenged him to re-imagine across more than 20 sports as diverse as clay target Christian ministry, to work outside personal shooting, table tennis, croquet, Formula One, comfort zones, and to see that God is just as much watersports and horse racing. SCA has strong links present in the “locker rooms, playing fields and with other sport-specific chaplaincy organisations, stadiums” as in a church community (Stewart, 2012, such as Australian Racing Christian Chaplaincy and p.14). Life Saving Chaplaincy Australia.

In his doctoral thesis, David Tyndall (2004) In a similar model to that of Sports Chaplaincy explores the evangelical church’s relationship Australia, Sports Chaplaincy UK (formerly known with sport in Evangelicalism, Sport and the as SCORE) represents over 220 sports chaplains in Australian Olympics. Although his thesis focuses the United Kingdom and Ireland, providing spiritual on the evangelical church’s involvement in sport and pastoral care to professional and amateur in Australia, he dedicates some of it to the history sporting clubs, as well as providing chaplains for of sports chaplaincy in Australia, particularly the major sporting events, such as the Olympic and development of Sports and Leisure Ministries (now Commonwealth Games. Sports Chaplaincy UK Sports Chaplaincy Australia) in the 1980s, and the also sees itself as providing a support network and use of chaplains at sporting events, such as the training for its chaplains. As a registered charity, the Olympic Games. He provides a thorough historical organisation is financially supported by a number of account of Christian chaplaincy in Australia, professional sporting codes in the UK and Ireland and uses examples of Christian chaplaincies in (http://www.sportschaplaincy.org.uk). various contexts, including within the sporting environment. The thesis sheds light on the struggle The German Catholic Bishops Conference has a of the evangelical church in Australia to ‘forge a work group under its organisational structure titled link’ between religion and sport. Tyndall suggests ‘The Scientific Commission for Church and Sport that it has now become a growing movement within in Germany’. All 27 dioceses in Germany have a Page 4 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia dedicated representative for ‘Church and Sport’, Overall, the sports represented by the eight who meet at least once a year to exchange initiatives chaplains interviewed were: AFL (men’s and and to broaden their general knowledge of sports women’s), cricket, rugby league, rugby union, (Paas, in Sport: An Educational and Pastoral soccer, and boxing. A number of chaplains were Challenge, p.64). While the commission covers serving multiple sports through chaplaincies broad aspects of the church and sport, one aspect is in universities and local secondary schools. A the pastoral care offered by priests and lay persons further five players and 13 other people, referred to athletes. to as ‘stakeholders’, were interviewed. The stakeholders held various positions within the clubs The predominant model of chaplaincy in the United they represented. Some stakeholders were also States is the provision of paid chaplains to various representatives of the larger associations of which sports at collegiate and professional levels. Most their clubs were a part, and some held multiple of the national league sporting clubs in the US, in roles. One was the parent of a player. Some of the sports such as baseball, football, basketball and players also held additional roles, such as committee soccer, have chaplains, as do the representative member. Two chaplaincy network coordinators, teams to international competitions, such as the responsible for coordinating and supporting the Olympic Games or World Championships. network of chaplains in a local government area, were also interviewed. In total, 28 people were Canada and New Zealand have similar models interviewed. of sports chaplaincy to that of Sports Chaplaincy Australia and Sports Chaplaincy UK. Background of the chaplains

The research The professional and religious backgrounds of the chaplains varied. Of the eight chaplains interviewed, The research conducted by the Christian Research five were full or part-time pastors of local churches. Association in relation to sports chaplaincy had a Two others had chaplaincy roles in universities or number of aims: secondary schools. Another was involved in private industry, and was involved voluntarily in leadership 1. to understand the values and the benefits sports in a local church. The part-time pastors held other chaplaincy adds to the Australian sporting positions in private industry or tertiary institutions. culture; 2. to identify the contribution chaplains make to Four of the chaplains were aged between 59 and 61, the Christian faith in Australia and society in two were aged in their early fifties, one was aged 40, general; and one was 30 years of age. Five of the chaplains 3. to explore the link between sports chaplaincy had held a chaplaincy position for between two and programs, sporting organisations, local church- five years, two had been involved for between six es and the local community; and nine years, and one had spent more than ten 4. to identify the best methods used in chaplaincy years in sports chaplaincy roles. Some of them had training and ministry in sport; been chaplains in more than one club during their 5. to examine the ecumenical nature of sports involvement. chaplaincy; and, 6. to explore the implications of this style of minis- try for contemporary pastoral the- ology and the shaping of ministry in contemporary Australia. The investigative aspect of the project used a qualitative case-study approach. Three case studies were chosen after consultation with Sports Chaplaincy Australia (SCA) to provide insights into how sports chaplaincy was operating in a range of contexts. • Case study 1 – a premier divi- sion women’s sport in suburban Melbourne. • Case study 2 – a sports chap- laincy network within a local government area in Sydney. • Case study 3 – a Victorian rural sporting club.

Motorsports Chaplain, Terry Dorrington. Photo by SCA, used with permission. Christian Research Association Page 5

Seven of the chaplains were male and one was not employed by a club, they can be neutral, and not female. The network coordinators were female and ‘take sides’. male. However, the female chaplain has taken on a All of the chaplains and the network coordinators leadership role at the club, which seems to work interviewed were involved in local churches. One well, as she has clear leadership attributes. An was involved with an Anglican church, four with example of this has been her ability to run meetings Baptist churches, two with Congregational churches, at the club. She has set down clear boundaries one with a Pentecostal church, and two with the around what she will and will not do, and considers Uniting Church. it important that her role is not abused, and that she sticks within her boundaries.A number of The main roles chaplains undertake the players interviewed, too, suggested that their chaplain played a supportive role in the club. The The major role of sports chaplains is being available chaplain was an independent person who worked for people. How this occurs may vary from one alongside the committee and leadership group. season to another, and from chaplain to chaplain. There is rarely a ‘typical week’ for chaplains, and Stakeholders said that their chaplains’ role the challenges and opportunities vary from week to involved being a support for anyone within the week. club, particularly players. Some of the day-to-day things the chaplains were involved with included: Most chaplains see their role as primarily being attending training and games, running information present for people in the club. They are intentional sessions (for example, on grief or suicide), and in making themselves available. Hence, members generally being around the club at events or of the club are able to turn to them when they feel functions. they need to. A number of terms were used by the chaplains themselves to describe their aim: creative A parent of a teenage footballer said that the loitering, intentional loitering, lingering with intent. chaplain had strong relationships with the young Another chaplain described his role as being a ones in the club: “The players are quite relaxed positive presence around the club. around him. He has a mentor role. He is non- threatening, and the kids love that”. Much of the content in the interviews suggested that in order for opportunities to present themselves Activities through which chaplains the chaplains first had to build rapport and develop feel they are most effective their role so that they were fully accepted by players, families and other people around the club. Chaplains were asked about the activities in which they considered they were most effective. One example of this was a chaplain who wrote a brief weekly “chaplains’ article” in the local sporting Two chaplains mentioned that being one-on-one news during the season. The article received with people was when they were most effective. widespread readership throughout the town and Others mentioned their ability to listen well and to wider region, and as a result created opportunities talk to others at their level. Simply making oneself for the chaplain to connect with people. He would available for people was important for one chaplain just stand on the sidelines and people would come who felt that having a low profile presence was up to him and want to talk to him about this or important. Another chaplain thought he could be that. Those opportunities would not have arisen if most effective by building long-term relationships. he had not first developed a reputation for care and When positive long-term relationships are built, confidentiality. the chaplain is seen to be credible, reliable and confidential. Another chaplain built rapport through offering practical support. For example, he had assisted with An AFL football chaplain stated that he thought he preparing the food for players lunches when another was blessed to have the gift of intuition, and that person had not arrived. On numerous occasions he because of it he was effective in understanding had also visited player’s family members who were people’s needs and recognising where people were ill. However, he saw that it was important to be at. careful not to impose himself, or ‘tread on people’s toes’. Critical incidents occurred infrequently, but when they did, the role of the chaplain was crucial The network coordinators suggested that a for clubs. This aspect of chaplaincy was much chaplain’s main job should be to provide a listening appreciated by stakeholders within the clubs, who ear to people. They should always be approachable, saw it as vital, not just for players, but everyone and around the club, but not within it or a part of around the club to have someone who could offer it. Chaplains have the benefit that, because they are pastoral care at the time of critical incidents. Many Page 6 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia chaplains also worked with families of players The network coordinators interviewed, who have through these incidents by visiting homes or the advantage of assessing chaplains over a period hospitals. of time, suggested that sports chaplaincy is a long-term commitment. Sometimes it can take Not all chaplains interviewed had experienced a months, but usually years, before a chaplain is really critical incident. One of those who had noted that accepted around a club. Obviously, this depends such incidents often provided opportunities for a lot on the circumstances and the setting the chaplains to work with players and families in the chaplain walks into. One chaplain was confronted weeks and months afterwards. In a rural setting, with a critical incident shortly after starting in the stakeholders interviewed had witnessed first- role, and acceptance for that aspect of the chaplain’s hand the effectiveness of their chaplain during a role was quick. However, for all chaplains, trust number of crises within the club and in the wider needs to be built and that usually takes time. communities of which they were a part. For one long-term chaplain that feeling of being A general manager of a large rugby league club was part of the club varied from time to time and year sure that because of the chaplain’s effectiveness, to year. He suggested that the role was not as being seen to have a chaplain added value to the integrated as it could be, although that could be club: the chaplaincy was seen as an additional seen as a positive thing as it allowed flexibility. resource for players. He saw it as an incentive for potential players. Factors contributing to a chaplain’s effectiveness Relationships with others, acceptance of role, expectations Stakeholders and players were asked what they considered to be contributing factors to their All chaplains thought their relationships with the chaplain’s effectiveness or ineffectiveness. All majority of people around their clubs were generally responses were positive, and not one respondent good and their roles widely accepted, although mentioned any factors that made chaplains almost all said that it had taken time to build those ineffective. relationships. The team manager of a women’s club thought Only one chaplain said that the role was positively their chaplain was inspiring because she knew received by the club from the outset. He said that her role and her boundaries, and was able to put the management fully endorsed it and the starting things into perspective. An ex-player of the same point at the club was a high level of respect for club pointed to her training as being a factor, chaplains. However, most other chaplains spoke although acknowledged that her astuteness and about the wariness of people at the start: the her conversational personality were also key. The negativity of some and the fearfulness of others players also acknowledged that their chaplain was about the ‘religious stuff’. One chaplain knew effective because of her personality, her training, that, of him, people probably asked, ‘are you here and her approachability. These factors contributed for another agenda?’ Some clubs were a lot more to the respect she had earned from everyone in the open to chaplaincy than others. For example, a club. One of the players, who was a regular church chaplain to university sporting clubs reflected on attender, recognised the chaplain’s wisdom and the difference between his experience of acceptance knowledge from the church perspective which she into cricket and rugby. One was much easier to brought to the club. move into than the other, and he was accepted a lot quicker. Respect for differing views about life was a chaplain’s key contributing factor for the One chaplain spoke of a small number of general manager of another club. The chaplain’s conservative ‘knockers’ and ‘dissenters’ he had come unassuming nature was also something that he said up against during his time in the role. He described he could not more highly. them as the entrenched club people who saw no need for chaplains, because they had never needed Effective factors for stakeholders in other clubs were them before. However, the stakeholder interviews that their chaplains liked to talk to people, they confirmed that many club officials, as well as players communicated well, they had an ability to counsel and parents, view the chaplain’s role very positively. people, they were ready to assist when needed, and they usually had a good sense of humour. Having a One chaplain shared an example of how the coach knowledge of the sport in which they were chaplains was very negative towards chaplaincy initially, but was considered an important factor by the president had witnessed the positive influence of the chaplain of one club. A rural chaplain was acknowledged on the players. Over time, he had become very for his networking ability, so important in country positive about chaplaincy. areas. 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Specific skills and personal attributes clinical pastoral education, grief training and suicide awareness. He said the courses were most relevant Chaplains were asked specifically what skills and for his ministry in the sporting club. personal attributes they brought to their role. Some spoke of their pastoring experience, their ways of Another chaplain, who was also an associate building community with people, and their ability to pastor of a local church, had received training in listen deeply to people. management skills as part of his family business, and saw that training as beneficial to his chaplaincy. One chaplain, who had a self-described passion for sport, thought it important that chaplains Prior to the last ten years, there was no specific have a keen interest in, or had played, some sport. training for potential chaplains. Most chaplains Another chaplain suggested that, because he had were clergy who already had a background of played amateur sport, he knew what it was like ministry to people in a variety of settings. The sports to some degree for those he ministered to in his arena was considered just another of those settings. chaplaincy role. For another chaplain, having played One long-term chaplain suggested that in the early and coached sport at an elite level meant that he years the national sports chaplaincy conferences understood the intricacies of how things operated were times of training for chaplains in Australia. in his sport, and that was of immense value in his chaplaincy role at the club. Relevance of training

One chaplain with a business background said that So how did those chaplains who had undertaken the many skills learned in the business world were Certificate II in Sports Chaplaincy training find it? transferable to the sporting world. Human resources skills were one example. The same chaplain A male chaplain, who has been working across suggested that sports chaplains needed to have multiple sports for the last four years, reflected that some life experience before coming into their role. the training he received provided the foundation for everything he has built upon in the clubs since then. According to players, the strongest attributes their female chaplain brought to the club was her ability One chaplain suggested that the practical things to bring people together in a ‘non-pushy’ way, her taught, such as confidentiality or dealing with elite positiveness and happiness, and her approachable sports-people, were beneficial. Another suggested manner. These attributes were confirmed by two that, because the Australian model of chaplaincy stakeholders within the club, but who added that the in sport is quite different to that in most other chaplain had a genuine care for people, a willingness countries, the uniqueness of the training to the to help others, and possessed strong leadership and Australian context was quite helpful. listening skills. Another chaplain reflected on the Gospel aspect of Stakeholders in other contexts saw their chaplain’s the training: attributes as strongest in the area of listening, friendliness, approachability, availability, bringing How the Gospel fits into the role of sports people together, and being able to communicate chaplaincy was very worthwhile – it was helpful to understand that the sports chaplain’s well to a range of people. role is not about ‘saving’ people, but about presenting oneself as the Gospel in that role. As an overall general observation of the chaplains, it would be apt to describe all of them as ‘people Ongoing training persons’. All of the chaplains had a desire to be available to people, no matter who they were, or At a national level, SCA is continually developing what their problems were. its training for chaplains. Its minimum level training for chaplains is a Level 2 Certificate in Training Sports Chaplaincy, a three day course run by sports chaplains and sports industry personnel. The course Most, but not all, of the chaplains interviewed had covers the foundations and fundamentals of sports completed the SCA Certificate in Sports Chaplaincy. chaplaincy in Australia, and introduces partipants to As many of the chaplains were ordained church pastoral care skills, issues specific to sports people, leaders, most had also undertaken substantial and professional conduct. pastoral study. One chaplain, who was not ordained, had completed a Certificate IV in Pastoral Care. National conferences often provide opportunities Another chaplain had completed general chaplaincy for additional training, although, as one chaplain training as part of ministry study. mentioned, they can be hard to get to and sometimes occur at inopportune times. In NSW, One ordained male chaplain had undertaken an annual training day is held, which allows specific courses as part of ministry training, such as participants to be involved without the extra Page 8 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia expense of travelling interstate. One chaplain Other support staff suggested that regular training locally would be good. Many chaplains, particularly those involved in grass-roots level and amateur sports, become the One chaplain working in a rural setting suggested support person within the club for many of the that rural chaplains should receive extra training issues that arise. to deal with the many issues which arise in non- suburban areas. Semi-professional and elite level clubs have the capacity to employ support staff, and chaplains Issues sports chaplains address work within that structure, as “one part of the jigsaw within the club.” One chaplain said that it was the According to chaplains, the issues which arise in club’s intent to work alongside the welfare officers, their roles are quite diverse. Many chaplains assist although he was uncertain of the effectiveness of the people who are having relationship problems, arrangement. whether they be family, marriage, or work colleague related issues. Other issues which had arisen for Challenges chaplains face chaplains included grief, employment assistance, bullying, depression, support for players during According to two network coordinators, one of the injury, family abuse, self esteem, drug and alcohol big challenges faced by new chaplains is finding abuse, and racial vilification. acceptance at the beginning of a placement at a club. There is frequently little understanding of the role Two chaplains specifically mentioned that they of chaplains in the clubs. There can also be a lot of often referred people to appropriate counsellors or loneliness for chaplains. Often they may be the only professionals. As a number of the other chaplains Christian in that context. A spouse of the chaplain were trained in pastoral care or counselling, they may share that feeling of isolation also. may informally do some counselling within their role, but it was important to be able to recognise One chaplain who felt isolated said part of the issue when specialist psychological assistance was was knowing what to do and say when you don’t needed. have anyone on hand to consult with, or any guide book to follow. The same chaplain said that it is One chaplain had assisted some players who important to have boundaries, but understanding had health issues. While some of the players just the boundaries of the role can be a challenge in needed someone to talk to about their issue in itself. confidence, other issues were referred on to relevant professionals. Another chaplain suggested that society, and more specifically, the general nature of sporting clubs in A number of chaplains had dealt with death within Australia and their acceptance of spirituality, faith their clubs, either of a club member, or family and religion was a big challenge. It can be hard members of players or club officials. As some of the work building up relationships with people in that chaplains were ordained clergy they had performed context. It is also important but challenging to strike funerals. Two chaplains mentioned they had also the right balance between being just another part of conducted weddings of players from their clubs. the club and a chaplain.

At least three of the chaplains mentioned that their assistance was broader than just those within their clubs, and that they were more than happy for that to happen.

The issues varied between sports, level of sport, geographic location, and whether females or males participated. For example, an elite level chaplain had to assist players who had been subjected to public humiliation. A rural chaplain had to come up with ways of tackling social issues arising from drought. The female chaplain had to deal with lesbian relationship break- downs. A chaplain to teenage players had addressed peer group pressure issues. TAC Rangers AFL, with chaplain. Photo by SCA, used with permission. Christian Research Association Page 9

Two chaplains suggested that time is an issue A practical example of a successful initiative by when the role is unpaid, particularly when one a chaplain (and the club’s trainer) was running a juggles family and work commitments on top of breakfast club on game days. Many of the younger it. However, the female chaplain who spends up players often slept in and skipped breakfast, to an hour travelling to the club for training once which affected their on-field performance. The a week, reflected that this time commitment had chaplain saw the initiative as focusing on the whole had a positive spin to it: the club recognised her well-being of the players. The time together was dedication very early on and saw her as someone an important part of building relationships and who was serious about being there for people. establishing a rapport with the players in addition to preparing the players physically for the game ahead. Some chaplains noted that it can be hard to get The club also runs a meal mid-week to select teams to know everyone, especially when a chaplain is for the weekend games, and the chaplain sees this involved with a sport which has a number of grades, as an important opportunity for connecting with such as juniors and seniors. people.

Although seemingly rare, one chaplain recognised Another chaplain had perceived a success through (and with much forethought) that he had not gradual change in the culture of the club, and noted experienced major challenges at his club: “I how drinking at functions had decreased, and how don’t say that lightly. It is a great club and quite members were now more accepting of others. established, so my role is endorsed, which makes it easier”. The network coordinators suggested that circumstances can often dictate what success Successes and effectiveness there is in a particular context. For example, a critical incident early in an appointment may lead Many of the chaplains interviewed saw ‘success’ more quickly to building effective relationships. and ‘effectiveness’ separately. For the female Alternatively, if a chaplain commences in a context chaplain, a major success was overcoming a crisis which has a strong negative attitude towards within the club, which meant changing the culture chaplaincy, ‘successes’ will take time. from a negative one to a positive one. Through that ‘success’ the chaplain had become effective in The unique contribution of sports involvement with player issues when they occured. chaplains The initial ‘little things’ she had done had had a huge impact on the players, she said. In response to the effectiveness of sports chaplains, players and stakeholders were also asked if they Another chaplain said that, because of his thought chaplaincy made a unique contribution to involvement with young people in a number of their club. All of the responses were affirmative, and different sporting clubs, people now had a very positively so. different perspective of chaplaincy. He measured his in relationships, and noted that many of those Chaplaincy is more broadly-based – it is more relationships had continued, even as the chaplain concerned about overall well-being. had moved clubs. He said he was regularly called upon to assist with pastoral care. He suggested that A player has someone to go to who isn’t part of he is ‘doing life with people’, and because it is life, the club. The chaplain is unbiased, independent, unprejudiced. He is teaching people to be good any successes cannot really be measured for perhaps people, not just soccer players. The role is 20 years – chaplaincy is long-term. The chaplain holistic. is also striving to build a strong foundation for the future of chaplaincy in the local area. The idea of Yes it’s unique. It’s great to have. There were the acceptance of chaplaincy being measured in the lots of questions at the start because of the term long-term was confirmed by another chaplain who [“chaplain”]. Now it’s very different. suggested that the culture towards chaplains will change over time. The role understands people at a deeper level. Mainly off-field, but also on-field issues for One aspect of a chaplain’s role involves encouraging players. other Christians within the club, and this mentoring has been an important contribution, suggested one One club’s team manager suggested that the term elite-level chaplain. It also assists in dissolving views ‘chaplain’ comes with spiritual tones to it, and as of faith – often negative – within the culture of the such some may still be ignorant about the role. club. Another chaplain, whom players considered However, another stakeholder of a different club to be a strong positive role model, shared that saw the title as an attractive addition to the club’s sentiment: “I am perhaps the only Christian that a support staff. lot of [the players] know”. The general manager of an AFL regional football league was adamant that chaplaincy was different: Page 10 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia

Yes, [the club] is unique because of chaplaincy. did utilise other chaplains to provide them with They are very fortunate. He can deal with issues evaluation, or as a way of informal accountability. that no one else has had training in. I know that anything that comes up I can refer on to him Two chaplains stated that they have an evaluation confidentially. He is very handy at dealing with process within their club, usually once or twice anything. a year. One of them, a rugby chaplain, said that annually he ‘touched base’ with the Football Of the same chaplain, a club supporter suggested: Manager at the club, and that he also had “It must work – all the other clubs in the league accountability with other rugby chaplains. The other want one”. chaplain, at a rural AFL club, said he undergoes an One stakeholder suggested of the uniqueness of his evaluation with the club President and the Head club’s chaplain that in critical times “...he is like that Trainer. oxy-reviver in a surf-life-saving club: you need to The female chaplain reflected that evaluating have it, but hope that you’ll never need to use it”. chaplains could prove difficult. Where does the evaluation come from? Who does the evaluation? Support and accountability However, she saw the importance of matching chaplains to the appropriate contexts: “We need Sports chaplains are often dealing with acceptance, to make sure we have the right people in the right loneliness, critical incident, and other issues unique situation”. to their contexts, and things can get tough at times. A question was asked about where they received their support from, if they had any supervision, and if there was any accountability in their role.

A rural chaplain suggested that some supervision in the role is very important, so there is recognition that “you are not trying to do things on your own”.

All of the chaplains interviewed said their spouses were a source of immense support to them, providing encouragement, giving informal counselling, or just being a ‘sounding-board’ for ideas and issues the chaplains were facing. Many 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games. Photo by Stephen Reid. of the chaplains utilised other sports chaplains or chaplains in other areas. How local churches see sport Some of the chaplains specifically indicated that they felt incredibly supported by SCA and their Sports chaplains are well placed to reflect on real network of chaplains. Some ordained chaplains and perceived tensions between the world of sport called upon other clergy within their church or and the church or congregations. As such, in the denomination for support. interviews, they were asked directly how they thought local churches and congregations see sport. One chaplain indicated that his home church was very supportive of his role, although it took a while The female chaplain thought that people in churches for them to recognise the role within a missional see sport as a selfish thing, nothing to do with context. He suggested that churches can be religion. However, she reflected that there seems interested and supportive in the practical sense, but to be more understanding nowadays that the two interest often drops off. can and should mix. A male chaplain thought that people in the church see sports as separate from Where chaplains have access to a chaplaincy the church: “They still don’t get that you need to go coordinator, they are appreciated and utilised. to where people are. Sport is very much detached Coordinators in New South Wales have recognised from the local church”. the need for chaplains to keep in touch with each other, and have organised a regular state A long-term chaplain suggested that churches are sports chaplaincy newsletter. As well as keeping struggling with sport in terms of a mission area: chaplains informed, the newsletter serves to provide I think sport is just one of those areas of the assurance that other chaplains are ‘out there’. world that church has yet to acknowledge actually exists and might be a place of ministry. Most of the chaplains indicated that they had not Our biggest struggle in sports chaplaincy had a formal evaluation or were not accountable is convincing churches. Not convincing to anyone directly. Most chaplains stated that they sporting communities. It’s churches! One of the reasons, I think, that lies behind that is Christian Research Association Page 11

that sports chaplaincy is by its very nature Overall, chaplains did not do as much with local outside of church. It requires a fair bit of time churches as they would like to do. It was also commitment, and sometimes they’re afraid suggested that new chaplains needed to regularly of losing people from the ministry inside the visit local churches as a way of getting churches church. involved. Chaplains need to work hard to get – and keep – churches onside. Another male chaplain thought the same and suggested that people in churches see sport as a threat, something that will take people away The spiritual side of sports from Sunday services. He thought some people in chaplaincy churches see sport as an ‘idol’ for people, whereas a few see it as an opportunity. This view was Although not common, many chaplains do get partly endorsed by another chaplain who similarly questions from people around their clubs about reflected that many congregations don’t see it as a the ‘big questions’ in life. However, as one chaplain ministry – they participate, but that’s all. However, noted, people are more interested in you having he thought, some see it as a real ministry, a mission solutions to their problems – they want someone field. to not judge them. That in itself can lead to other questions about religion and spirituality. Two chaplains, in different states and in different contexts, shared similarly about the possibilities Occasionally they are asked to pray for someone which churches see in sports ministries, such as or with someone. One chaplain, who also has chaplaincy. One of the chaplains said: “...churches responsibility as a school chaplain, leads prayer, but are starting to see that church is going outside said he does not push it too much. the four walls of the building.” The other chaplain One chaplain mentioned that a few of the players expanded slightly: “Congregations are starting in the club had started going back to church after to see church is outside the four walls; church is many years away from it. Ironically for the chaplain, community in the world”. one of the players had had such a change in her A chaplain to a university sporting club challenged perspectives on life that she had stopped playing people in churches to see the positive side of sport sport to attend church. However, the chaplain saw in the community: her role not about getting people to go to church, but about being genuine and committed to the Perhaps it would be great if the culture shifted well-being of people: “I don’t have to convince them slightly as far as the education of churches to of anything. I have to show them that God is love”. see how influential and how powerful [sport] This sentiment was confirmed by another chaplain can be to impact a community. who did not see his role as ‘putting bums on seats’ for the church. For him, chaplaincy was not about Connections with local churches being religious, but “about having a religious background and understanding why we do what Most of the chaplains had connections with we do”. He said it was uncommon for people to ask churches, either through their own church or about the ‘bigger questions of life’, although, “people through visiting other local churches. Some of the can have conversations with me that they will have chaplains had received invitations to speak about with no one else”. their role at church services or other events. Another aspect of the chaplain’s role is encouraging One of the chaplains, who had responsibility for and mentoring Christians within their context. One pastoral roles in a local church, mentioned the need chaplain said he talked about ‘bigger issues’ with to balance his role in sports chaplaincy with the the Christian players. Another chaplain saw it as a pastoral responsibilities of his church and hospital blessing that there were some committed Christians chaplaincy. He did not regularly talk about his at the club, and that they can encourage each other. sports chaplaincy as there was a perception among some in his congregation that it was detracting from In a number of the interviews, chaplains indicated his duties in the church. Another chaplain said he that it was extremely important not to push the sometimes mentioned his sports chaplaincy when religious side of their chaplaincy work. One long- preaching at different churches, although he also term chaplain expressed concern for potential recognised the need to not give it too much ‘air- sports chaplains who might be interested in pushing time’ for the same reason. religion too much:

A suburban chaplain indicated that he used to have I’m concerned that some people coming into strong connections with churches in his local area, chaplaincy come in as Evangelical Christians, although the connections had slipped. However, who think they’re going to save the world, and he was about to re-engage with the church network go out there and get converts for God. And that might happen, but you don’t go out there and again. bang them about the head with the Bible! Page 12 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia

His advice for all chaplains who have such an A university chaplain, who has many people from agenda: non-Christian faiths in the club, enjoys building relationship with anyone, regardless of their faith What we have to do is present ourselves in background. He has in fact developed a good a way that people see us in a way that is relationship with a Buddhist, whom he now sees non-threatening, and that we really do care as a friend. That same chaplain is mindful that he about them as individuals, no matter what does not spend all the time with the few Christians background they come from. around the club, but sees his role as “being Jesus to This attitude was reinforced by the responses of the anyone who wants to talk”. vast majority of stakeholders and players. For one rural chaplain, whose context sees very few He leaves things open only if they are interested from non-Christian backgrounds, the role is to be – if he was too pushy they wouldn’t open up to seen as independent. The chaplain is someone who him. is neutral and available to all, regardless of faith – or no faith, he suggested. I am sure if they ask for it he would give. He certainly wouldn’t be in their face. The responses of the chaplains were confirmed by players and stakeholders in the clubs. It is about helping people in the club, not about ramming it down their throats. As one club administrator stated about their chaplain: “There is no discrimination. He’d pick up Occasionally religious and spiritual aspects are anyone”. And another in the same club: “He doesn’t picked up by people within the clubs, although it push his beliefs – he will work with anyone”. was commonly noted that much of it goes unnoticed because of the confidential way chaplains go about A player in another club, which has a multicultural their business. When asked about the religious make up within it, said of the female chaplain’s aspect of chaplaincy, one club official said: “Haven’t ability to connect with people from all faiths: “You witnessed that. Perhaps lightly. I’m not privy to don’t notice it at all. She gets along with the Sikhs other people’s conversations, so I wouldn’t know”. and Muslims in the club just the same as others”. The team manager in the same club agreed by One player said that her chaplain does use quotes saying that the chaplain was respectful of everyone. from the Bible occasionally in team meetings, “but in a very respectful way.” Another player from the Of their chaplain, one parent of a player of an AFL same club said, “She has never hidden her beliefs. grass-roots club suggested that the “people who She doesn’t publicly offer it, but helps in that area if don’t have a faith are the ones that come to him. A asked”. lot of barriers have been broken down [because of him]”. Diversity of religious backgrounds The general manager of a semi-professional rugby Although SCA chaplains are Christian chaplains, league club said the chaplain really got on well with they are in environments and have to manage everyone, observing that “he wouldn’t care who situations where there are people from other they are, he deals with the person as an individual”. religious backgrounds and from no religious background at all. None of the chaplains saw it as an The future of sports chaplaincy in issue. Australia

One chaplain takes a proactive approach to diversity Stakeholders and players were asked about of beliefs by openly, but respectfully, asking those whether they thought it important to continue of other religions about their own faith. Another with chaplaincy in the future and if they would chaplain, who frequently connects with a Muslim recommend it to others. They were also asked to and an atheist in his chaplaincy, concurs with that rate their current chaplaincy in their clubs. All of approach and suggests it is about respect for every the players and stakeholders said that they would person you meet. recommend chaplaincy to others, with at least two saying they had already done so. Another chaplain stated that it is important not to put anyone’s beliefs down, but talk about common One stakeholder suggested that such a support role ground through shared experiences. in a club is important, even if it is not a chaplain. Another stakeholder with strong connections to One chaplain, from a club where people are mainly many other clubs had made recommendations no faith, says it is about engaging with people where for chaplaincy, which had resulted in chaplaincy they are at, and says that it is important to “not try appointments in at least two other clubs. to impose my own views”. Christian Research Association Page 13

A number of the players interviewed recommended chaplains were rated highly with an average score of chaplaincy to other clubs, but mentioned the need to 8.9 out of ten. have the right person for the right club. Overall, they said, a chaplain provides another outlook on things, Many of the respondents also made additional it is someone who is independent, and someone who comments about the basis for their rating: supports everyone. If all hell broke loose it’s a damn good thing to A soccer club president highly recommended have one. In a perfect world we wouldn’t need chaplaincy, and added: “Any club that doesn’t take one, but we don’t live in a perfect world! the opportunity for a chaplain is mad”. You don’t realise until the wheels come off how valuable it is. One rugby league club has made the strongest recommendation for chaplaincy by promoting their It’s good to know that it’s there – it would be a chaplain as a ‘selling point’ for potential players. real shame to lose it.

An AFL country league president had only positive We are very happy with what he does. As a recommendations and would not hesitate to league we are very happy to have someone recommend chaplaincy: “Yes, definitely. I know like him. He is a special person suited to the what he has done and the impact he has had in community. There is a definite place for the role various incidents”. in rural communities.

Another stakeholder endorsed chaplaincy in Concluding comments sporting clubs “if done the right way, and with the right person”. He warned that the chaplain’s role The chaplaincy role has to have a holistic approach to it. To a certain extent it is hard to ascertain the full A female player of one club said, “I would effectiveness of the chaplaincy role, as many of encourage all clubs to access one [a chaplain]. the issues that chaplains address are dealt with There are so many issues she helps out with”. confidentially. However, what is more evident is the fact that all of the chaplains chosen for the case- One club committee president, who is also a school studies were widely accepted by those involved with principal, saw the potential of chaplaincy and the the clubs they ministered within. Although all eight benefits to a club and local community: of the chaplains who were interviewed were quite different in their personalities, their backgrounds, There is a real need in every club. It is very and in their experience they brought to their smart to do things through the sporting club – chaplaincy roles, all of them were well suited to their that is the community. Every club would benefit individual sporting contexts. from having someone. The chaplains in general have been well received Overall, stakeholders and players were positive by the majority in their clubs. However, most of the about continuing chaplaincy at their club. Some chaplains indicated that there was some hesitation, stakeholders suggested that the role was more than occasionally rejection, for them early in their role. just about the individual who filled the position. At It can take time for chaplains to build rapport with least two of them said that they would seek another people, particularly if there is that initial hesitation chaplain if their present chaplain finished up. from people within a club. Some chaplains indicated that they had found ways of connecting with people The head trainer of a football club recognised the more quickly. For example, one chaplain trained Christian values which were being espoused through with the players for the first few months, and felt the chaplain: that rapport was built quickly as a result. Other The basis of Christianity is a good thing – there chaplains had found acceptance quickly after critical are a lot of people [around the club] who have incidents, which thrust them into situations where those values, but who don’t have anything to they had visible opportunities to offer pastoral care. do with the church. It’s a good basis for the example of Christianity in society today. There’s For the most part, the honorary nature of sports a Christian presence throughout the club. chaplaincy in Australia is working well. Chaplains are seen to be independent from the club they Of the importance of continuing chaplaincy, one minister within, a positive of not being employed by player stated: “Definitely. It has made a very big the club. Neither are they employed by a church in difference to the club”. their chaplaincy role, nor do they wear any clothing which associates them to any particular Christian Players and stakeholders of clubs were asked, on a denomination. From this perspective, chaplains see scale of one to ten, to rate their chaplain. Overall, the volunteer nature of their position as extremely Page 14 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia important, as they are more approachable by At the same time, very few chaplains are athletes or players. Additionally, because a chaplain professionally trained as psychologists. They must is not ‘on the payroll’ their position is not exposed to recognise the limits of the counselling they offer and the ups and downs of the club’s finances. refer people on to other professionals when that is needed. On the other hand, there is a serious time commitment by chaplains to the people in the clubs they minister to. Chaplains need to balance their time appropriately, and chaplains indicated that this was not always easy to do, particularly when there were competing demands from paid employment or family commitments. This was also important for the chaplains who held full-time clergy positions. They recognised the need to balance their sporting ministry with their paid church ministry.

Overall, chaplains recognised that their role was extremely diverse and that flexibility was a key component in any ‘success’ they had. Because a chaplain’s role is not clearly defined, they are in a unique position to ‘make the role their own’. Chaplains are able to use their strengths Australian Open Tennis. Photo by Philip Hughes. in personality, experience or training to identify the best methodology for their own context. Connections with churches Many chaplains saw building relationships as the important ingredient in their role. Additionally, Many of the chaplains felt that there was a strong chaplains also facilitated the building of stronger disconnect between local churches and sports relationships amongst people within their clubs. chaplaincy, and sport in general. A number of For example, a player of one club saw her chaplain questions arose in discussion with the chaplains: as one who brought out the best in others, and that How can local churches better assist in the support rubbed off. Another person from the same club of chaplains? In what ways can sports chaplaincy spoke of the chaplain’s influence on the culture of be recognised as a ministry within the local church the club: context instead of a separate ministry outside of a church community? The way [the chaplain] has rubbed off on everyone else. So everyone else takes a little bit There is a real need for closer connections between more time to actually make sure that, even if sporting clubs through their chaplains and local someone seems really happy, that they ask how churches. There are mutual benefits for clubs things are going and seeing if they’re okay with and churches. The sporting clubs benefit through everything. increased pastoral care and practical support, and the churches benefit from the connections they Chaplains, stakeholders and players saw the make with clubs as they seek to serve in the local chaplaincy role as unique, both as a specific role community. within the club, and from the perspective of other clubs who had no such role. Some churches are already proactively reaching out to the community through sport. For example, Many of the characteristics of school chaplaincy which contributed to its effectiveness were evident • Lakeside Baptist Church, in the southern sub- in sports chaplaincy: urbs of Perth, serves the community through a recreation centre, which doubles as the area for • a proactive approach in building relationships; worship services on a Sunday. • being readily accessible through regular involve- • Just outside the Brisbane CBD, a Salvation ment with clubs; Army corps runs weekly worship services with • being unaligned with the administration and a sports theme and focus. Dubbed ‘God’s Sports not being paid by the clubs, meaning that chap- Arena’, it meets in an Anglican Church opposite lains could readily and effectively offer support Suncorp Stadium, the home of the Brisbane to individuals and contribute to building club Broncos Rugby League Club and Brisbane Roar culture. Soccer Club. Unlike others who provide counselling, chaplains • The Uniting Church of Donald and St Arnaud, provide support for individuals and for the clubs situated in rural north-west Victoria, sponsors themselves in flexible and holistic ways, sometimes the local AFL teams. The Uniting Church logo extending that support beyond the club to the can be seen on players jumpers as well as on members’ families. club and league websites. Christian Research Association Page 15

Other churches throughout Australia conduct stages of formation, through the sharing regular recreational activities which aim to connect of valuable experiences and with adequate regular attenders with people in the community. facilities. (Pontifical Council for the Laity, 2008, Many churches enter teams in local sporting pp.57-58). competitions under their name. For example, in In the Australian context, an increase in lay a local netball league in the eastern suburbs of involvement in sports chaplaincy brings with it Melbourne, six of the sixteen clubs originated out the possibility that they will be under-trained, of and retain links with local Catholic and Uniting or lack the specific pastoral training that clergy churches. undertake in the course of their ordination. As In research conducted with a sample of more more and more lay people are recruited to sports than 4,000 students in Catholic schools it was chaplaincy positions there will be a need for more found that 1,457 (35%) were involved in sporting rigorous training, and extra context or sport specific clubs associated with local churches. Of these training for chaplains working in unique settings, young people, 31 per cent never attended services such as in rural towns, with elite sports-people, of worship, and thus the sporting club was their or with disabled athletes. Previous qualifications only connection with the local church (Christian or training of potential chaplains should be Research Association, 2011). recognised, as many have life skills and experience appropriate to the setting. Training and equipping However, chaplains to sporting clubs see their of sports chaplains for the future is important to role as not about getting more people into church, accommodate the changes occurring in recruitment. although occasionally that does happen. Most chaplains felt that people in the churches need to One of those changes is the increase in the number widen their definition of church to encompass an of women becoming chaplains over the last few outward looking ‘going out’ to the people theology, years. A training course for potential sports rather than an inward looking ‘bums on seats’ chaplains held in NSW in February 2013 was theology. As one chaplain stated: “[People in the the first in which there were more female than church] still don’t get that you need to go to where male participants. According to some long-term people are”. chaplains, sports chaplaincy has long been a male- dominated field of ministry. As women in sport in Training for sports chaplaincy Australia search for better recognition and become more prominent in the elite areas, so the need for All of the chaplains who were interviewed had more female sports chaplains will become even received at least some training in chaplaincy or more apparent. pastoral care, and most had undertaken a Certificate in Sports Chaplaincy. A number of them were Structural issues in sports chaplaincy ordained clergy, so had received training in pastoral care as part of their ministry training. Previously, As changes occur other structures will also need to mostly ordained clergy were involved in sports be addressed. chaplaincy as part of their local church ministry. One such structure is its voluntary and casual Some clergy no doubt undertook the chaplaincy role nature, part of the uniqueness of sports chaplaincy. ‘on the side’, perhaps to the disappintment of the Many stakeholders and players stated that parishioners who saw sport as a distraction from their honorary status was highly respected and church on Sunday. However, the last decade has contributed to the effectiveness of sports chaplaincy. witnessed an increase in the number of lay people However, one could ask the question ‘how do you involved in sports chaplaincy in Australia. truly value a person’s role if that position requires Though Euro-centric and observed through a an extensive time commitment and yet is unpaid?’ Catholic perspective, the Pontifical Council for the Additionally, if sports chaplaincy moved from Laity document on sport highlights the importance honorary to paid, where would the funds come of recruiting and training lay women and men to an from, and who would administer them? On the ‘apostolic engagement’ with the world of sport. The other hand, would such a change mean a devaluing Council argues that, of the commitment of those who feel called to serve sport in an honorary capapcity? As one chaplain It is therefore necessary and urgent to invest in declared: “Time is an issue when the role is unpaid. the laity at all levels of the ‘sport system’ since You just can’t work for peanuts forever. That’s the the response to the pastoral challenge of the biggest problem”. world of sport is mostly up to them . . . . The pastoral ministry of sport must concern itself One might also ask whether a variety of models need with the training of the laity, above all, lay to be developed. Is it appropriate, for example, to ‘volunteers’ in order to equip, educate and assist have paid chaplains in professional sporting clubs? them with knowledge and prudence, with far- sightedness and clarity, through appropriate Page 16 The Values and Benefits of Sports Chaplaincy in Australia Another structure of sports chaplaincy has to do References with the accountability of chaplains. Very few of the chaplains who were interviewed undertook any Carey, Lindsay B. (2000) ‘Hospital Chaplaincy’, Pointers, formal evaluation from Sports Chaplaincy Australia Vol.10, no. 2. or the clubs they served within. There also appeared to be no formal structures of accountability in place Carey, Lindsay B. & Jeffrey Cohen. (2009) ‘Religion, in most situations, apart from the requirement of Spirituality and Health Care Treatment Decisions: The Role of Chaplains in the Australian Clinical Context’, having police checks for working with children. Journal of Health Care Chaplaincy, 15:1, 25-39. While chaplains receive some training in professional conduct, how are they held accountable Cheong, Geoff, “Sports Loving Australians: A Sacred for their ethical responsibilities? Are there Obsession”, in Makarand Paranjape. (2009) Sacred structures in place for complaints against chaplains, Australia: Post Secular Considerations, Melbourne: and if so, what are they? How can chaplains be Clouds of Magellan. accountable whilst remaining confidential? There need to be approporiate accountability procedures Christian Research Association. (2011) [Computer file] in place between the chaplain and the club, and Putting Life Togther Surveys, Nunawading: Christian between both parties to Sports Chaplaincy Australia. Research Association. Hughes, Philip & Margaret Sims. (2009) The In equipping sports chaplains for the future it is Effectiveness of Chaplaincy as provided by the National important that their role is fully understood from School Chaplaincy Association to Government Schools in both a theological and a pastoral perspective. Australia, Edith Cowan University. None of the chaplains interviewed saw their role as evangelists or preachers. They were there to Lipe, Roger. (2006) Transforming Lives In Sport: A be available to provide pastoral care to those who Guide for Sport Chaplains and Sport Mentors, Kearney: needed it, without any strings attached. While some Cross Training Publishing. chaplains encountered people of non-Christian faiths within their clubs, they treated them no Pontifical Council for the Laity. (2008) Sport: An differently from anyone else. However, primarily Educational and Pastoral Challenge, Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana. chaplains were ministering to people who saw themselves as having no identification with any Stewart, B. Grant. (2005) A Theological and Pastoral religion. Exploration of the Role of Sports Chaplains in Australia (unpublished Master of Ministry Thesis), Melbourne However, some of the chaplains had offered College of Divinity. ‘spiritual’ advice or guidance when asked. Some had helped to ‘bridge the gap’ between the church Stewart, B. Grant. (2012) The Role of Sports Chaplains in and ‘un-churched’ people in their clubs. Others had Australia, Zadok Paper S191, Winter 2012. been available to provide religious rituals, such as funerals or weddings, and this is also an important Tyndall, David Bruce. (2004) Evangelicalism, Sport role that chaplains undertake. and the Australian Olympics (unpublished Doctor of Philosophy Thesis), Macquarie University. This pilot research project has examined how the ecumenical nature of sports chaplaincy has had © Christian Research Association. a positive influence through providing low level pastoral care of people in sporting clubs. This project has identified that there is a need for further First printing September 2013. CRA, PO Box research in the area of chaplaincy within sport in 206, Nunawading LPO, Victoria, 3131. Australia. Further research should address key areas Website: www.cra.org.au of sports chaplaincy, such as selection, training, role evaluation, accountability, and the volunteer nature ISBN 978-1-875223-77-0 of the ministry. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication In sports chaplaincy, a real need has been identified may be produced in any form or by any means within an important aspect of Australian society. without prior permission in writing from the For many Australians the church has largely been publishers. irrelevant for them, while sport has provided meaning and community. Overall, sports chaplains, Whilst the authors take sole responsibility for as representatives of the Christian faith in Australia, the content, they wish to gratefully acknowledge are responding to that need and finding an Hazel Hughes and Bob Dixon who read versions opportunity for re-shaping Christian ministry in of this document. contemporary Australia.