Heart of an Athlete
Jan/Feb 2010

Maggie Krick Illinois State University Women's Basketball

Chosen Attribute: Joy

Dictionary definition: “The emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying.”

My definition: “To be genuinely content from the inside out.”

Favorite Scripture that deals with joy: Psalm 119:1 (NLT) – “Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD.”

Why I chose this verse: “I think all people have the desire to feel joy, and Psalm 119:1 clearly states where to find it. There is only one source of pure joy, and that is knowing and following Jesus. One of my favorite sayings is, ‘Joy is not in things; it is in us.’”

“There is only one source of pure joy, and that is knowing and following Jesus.”

How I encourage my team to be joyful: “As a senior and team leader, I try to bring an attitude of joy to practice every day. I encourage my teammates by letting them know that we’re blessed to have the ability to be practicing. No matter how many sprints we run or how many turnovers we make, I sincerely find joy in being part of a team and playing the game I love.

“My teammates know that I’m a Christian, and they know what I stand for, so I just let my actions do the talking. The joy I display has given me opportunities to share my faith with my teammates. God has been so faithful in opening those doors for me.”

How I stay joyful off the court: “It has certainly been a challenge to stay joyful and faithful as my time in college comes to an end. It has been easy to get scared and anxious at times, but I just need to trust God. I’ve always found such comfort and peace when I do.

“Things haven’t always been what I’ve wanted, and struggles have certainly come my way. But thankfully, I’ve always been able to keep a sense of joy knowing that God’s love is constant and that He has a plan for me.”

About the Athlete Hometown: Washington, Ill. Class: Senior Position: Guard Career Highlights: • All-Missouri Valley Conference Selection (2008 Honorable Mention, 2009 Second Team) • Two-time All-MVC Scholar-Athlete Second Team (2008, 2009) FCA Involvement: Krick came to Illinois State as a Christian athlete looking to get involved with an organization that would help her grow in her faith. She attended an FCA Huddle meeting her first week on campus and has been involved ever since. “FCA has had a tremendous impact on my life,” Krick said. “I have made some of my best friends and have had the opportunity to reach and serve others like never before.” Her involvement with the ministry has included leading Huddles, helping with camps and serving on two mission trips. Said Krick: “I have experienced so much spiritual growth and maturity throughout my college years because of FCA.” FCA Staff Quote: “Maggie has been right in the middle of our ISU Huddle for the past four years. She has shown a real heart to continue to grow in her faith, and, as a leader, she’s been a great influence on the gals around her. We’re excited to see how God will continue to use her in the future.” – Jon Berry, FCA Area Representative, Bloomington-Normal, Ill.

--For more stories about faith and sport, visit www.sharingthevictory.com, the official magazine of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. To subscribe to STV, click here.

Photos Courtesy of ISU Media Relations