FCA camp provides renewal of fellowship, competition

In the middle of a summer full of weightlifting, workouts and running, a shift in the program can provide a fresh take to guide a football team into the home stretch of preseason preparations.

Rome High’s football team used Wednesday and Thursday to get that recharge, in both mind and spirit, as the Wolves hosted three other teams in a Fellowship of Christian Athletes football team camp. The two-day camp was a joint effort with both the Rome High FCA and the Paulding County FCA.

Rome took part for the second year in a row, getting to go up against Class 7A teams West Forsyth and North Paulding, as well as 6A Creekview.

While teams go head-to-head in 7-on-7 drills and competitions, players also take time to hear testimonials and listen to speakers while also learning about the word of Jesus Christ and how their faith can impact their lives.

“I think one of the things that make this special is the fact that the FCA is involved,” Rome head coach John Reid said. “Not only do you get some football in, but you get some fellowship and kids learn about other kids. We do a lot of breakdowns and kids get up and speak.”

Family and coming together as one were main themes during Rome’s state championship season last year, and Reid said the FCA played a role in setting up that attitude.

“The fellowship and the FCA is a big part for our kids,” he said. “We thought it was a big part of being a championship team last year. It kept bringing us together.”

Having some quality players to line up across from adds to the benefits of the camp as well.

“The other part is you get to work against some kids who are from 7A schools and schools that are bigger than you that provide some bigger competition and do some different things,” Reid said. “I think that’s special.”

The limited-contact activities give players chances to get reps in certain formations and plays. Each day, coaches awarded superlatives like most improved, best leader and simply who had the most fun.

“Summer workouts get to be grinding and grueling,” Reid said. “To do some sort of semi-padded camp where you get to play some football for a couple of days … It’s limited contact, but at least it’s better than lifting weights and running.