Frequently asked questions
How does the Christian mission of FCA affect the way camp is run?
As a ministry of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, our camp is shaped by a Christ-centered mission in everything we do. Our staff cares for campers in a God-honoring way, modeling Christlike character on and off the field. Each day includes opportunities for campers to hear stories and teaching from the Bible, helping them grow in their understanding of faith. Our coaches also share personal testimonies about how God has worked in their lives, using their experiences to encourage and impact campers in a meaningful way. As part of the mission of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, we pursue excellence in coaching, competition, and camp operations as a way to honor God in all we do. Learn more about our mission here.
How does the Christian mission of Fellowship of Christian Athletes affect the way camp is run?
Our staff takes care of your children in a God-honoring manner. We share stories and lessons from the Bible daily. Our coaches each share their personal testimonies of how God changed their lives. We seek excellence in all that we do as a way of honoring God.
What are the typical ages/skill levels at camp?
Ages range from 5-12 and since FCA camps are open to everyone, each camp varies with regard to the level of play. FCA now offers a High School Training Program.
Rookie Camp: 5-6 / Full Day Camp: 7-12 / HS Training Program: Incoming Freshman +
How are the kids grouped? What if my child is more advanced for his/her age?
The campers are grouped by age to begin. They will remain in that group for the first day. The coaches are good at challenging kids at their own level and players at any skill level need to practice fundamentals. If the coach feels they should be in a different group for an additional challenge that can be arranged the next day.
Can my camper be placed in a group with a friend or sibling?
Campers are placed into groups based on their age. During registration, you may request that your camper be placed with a friend or sibling. If both campers are in the same age group, we will do our best to place them on the same team. Teams are formed approximately one week before the start of camp. While we make every effort to honor all teammate requests, we cannot guarantee that every request can be accommodated.
What does a typical camp day schedule look like?
Camp starts out with morning skill stations in their age groups. In these stations they focus on skill work and possibly use games to reinforce the skill instruction. The camp breaks for water periodically throughout the morning. Coach’s testimonies are presented during those times as well. Lunch and bible time are in the middle of the camp day. If they are in the full day camp, the afternoon session consists of world series games. The campers will compete on their teams throughout the week and work towards the goal of winning the World Series final game at the end of the week.
What does a typical camp day schedule look like?
Each camp day begins with skill stations organized by age group. During these stations, campers receive instruction on fundamental baseball skills and participate in fun, competitive drills that reinforce what they are learning. We use keywords to reinforce what is being taught. Throughout the morning, campers take regular water breaks and hear coach testimonies that encourage and inspire them both on and off the field. Midday includes lunch and Bible Time, where campers have the opportunity to learn about faith, character, and leadership in an age-appropriate setting. For campers enrolled in the full-day program, the afternoon is dedicated to World Series team games. Campers compete with their teams throughout the week, developing teamwork and sportsmanship while working toward the ultimate goal of earning a spot in the World Series Championship Game at the end of camp.
What is the difference between the Half-Day and Full-Day Camp?
Our Half-Day Camp is designed specifically for younger athletes ages 5–6 and provides an accelerated camp experience focused on skill development, fun, and age-appropriate instruction. Half-day campers are dismissed at noon, and lunch is not provided. Our Full-Day Camp is designed for athletes ages 7–12 and includes a full day of skill instruction, team competition, Bible Time, and World Series games. Lunch is provided each day for all full-day campers.
What happens if it’s very hot?
We know some summer days are very hot. Each team has their own shade canopy. We do our best to give the kids shade as often as possible and water breaks are constant on those hot days. We do not cancel camp for heat but we do try our best to make it as comfortable as we can. Please provide a water bottle for your child everyday and we will have plenty of water for refills.
What happens if it's very hot?
We understand that summer temperatures can get very warm. To help keep campers safe and comfortable, each team is provided with its own shade canopy, and coaches make every effort to keep campers in the shade whenever possible. We also schedule frequent water breaks throughout the day, especially during periods of extreme heat. Camp is not typically canceled due to hot weather, but our staff closely monitors conditions and takes appropriate precautions to ensure a safe environment for all campers. Please send your child with a labeled water bottle each day. We will have plenty of water available for refills throughout camp.
What is the coach-to-camper ratio?
We intentionally keep our coach-to-camper ratio low to ensure campers receive quality instruction, supervision, and encouragement throughout the week. Team rosters typically range from 10–14 campers, depending on the camp location. Each team is assigned a Lead Instructor along with Junior Coach Instructors, providing approximately a 6:1 camper-to-coach ratio. This small-group approach allows our staff to give campers more individual attention while maintaining a safe, engaging, and well-supervised environment.
Who will coach my child? What am I paying for?
Your child will be coached by a team of experienced instructors, including top-level players and coaches who are trained in sports ministry and committed to investing in both skill development and character growth. We spend 10 months recruiting out team of Shepherds who serve and love the athletes at FCA Camps! As a nonprofit missions organization, FCA Camps are designed to serve families while also supporting a broader mission. Camp tuition helps cover program costs and also supports ministry efforts locally, allowing us to continue serving athletes and communities through sports and faith-based outreach.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes! We offer an early registration discount for all players who sign up before the early registration deadline. We also provide group and sibling discounts when applicable, making it easier for families and teammates to attend camp together. In addition, scholarship opportunities are available for families in need. Please contact us for more information on eligibility and how to apply.
How do I pick up my child at the end of the day?
At the end of each camp day, campers must remain on-site until they are officially checked out by a parent or guardian with their coach. During registration on the first morning of camp, you will be asked to list the names of all individuals who are authorized to pick up your child. Only those approved contacts will be permitted to sign out a camper at the end of the day.
What do you wear to camp and what equipment do you need?
Campers should wear baseball attire each day, including a shirt, baseball pants, cleats, and a hat. Shorts are not recommended. Each camper must bring their own glove. Campers are also encouraged to bring their own bat and helmet if they have them to help enhance their experience and safety during drills and games.
What happens if I need to cancel my camp registration?
Once you are registered, your deposit is non-refundable. If you have paid in full, the remaining balance (minus the deposit) may be refunded. We also offer the option to apply your deposit as a credit toward a future camp registration.
What should I bring to camp?
Campers should bring a refillable water bottle each day to stay hydrated during breaks. Sunscreen is also highly recommended for protection during outdoor activities. Water bottles can be refilled throughout the day at our water coolers if needed.
FCA BACKGROUND CHECK PROCEDURE
There are 4 main background check procedures for FCA staff and coaches:
1. Application Form – An application form is completed for all volunteer and coaching positions. Required information include name, address, references and employers. Every potential volunteer completes the form, regardless of how long they have been associated with the FCA organization. Applications are signed and dated by each potential volunteer.
2. Information and Reference Check – References and information are reviewed to ensure the application matches information collected and references provided on the application
3. Interview – Potential volunteers and coaches are interviewed by phone or in person.
4. Criminal History Background Check Conducted – Each applicant also fills out our MLA (Ministry Leader Application) which includes a Criminal History Background Check with the following components:
Validate volunteer identity using the information collected from the application. Criminal and Sex Offender records in the U.S. are filed using name and date of birth (DOB) as identifiers. This information is gathered during the application process by requiring potential volunteers to provide their driver’s license/state issued identification and social security number.
Sex Offender Registry (SOR) search. A search is conducted from the most up-to-date and accurate data source via the U.S. Department of Justice National Sex Offender Website.
National, County and Statewide Criminal Database search is conducted utilizing information from a National Criminal Database as a supplement to the County and Statewide Criminal Courthouse search and Sex Offender Registry search.