There are over 40 million adults between the age of 18-25 years old in America. A staggering statistic especially when we realize that these young men and women are the leaders of tomorrow. How do we assure that these youth are on the right path and have the proper mentorship to live up to their true potential? Chris Avila believes that he can answer part of that question through sports. Spending more than twenty years as a sports chaplain for both professional and amateur sports, Chris Avila has used sports to help mold and guide today’s youth into tomorrow’s leaders.
He has been dedicated to serving others through sports since he was seventeen. Following twelve years with the Oakland Raiders as a sports chaplain, he has continued to serve professional athletes, team, and entertainers for all of his adult life. Often an underlooked part of a sports team, he has served in his role as chaplain with the same passion as a head coach or GM. A coach focuses on winning on the field, Avila focuses on off the field victories. “I want to help these guys strengthen marriages, build relationships, enjoy life, and strengthen their faith and spirituality.” He has done just that. Whether helping boxers like Robert Guerrero and Mario Barrios, mentoring NFL players, or speaking to a college team, he has helped countless players to excel on the field and in their personal lives.
To him, his book, Two Minute Warning: Time to Fight for What Matters Most, is just an extension of that ministry. “I remember seeing that stat [about 40 million adults], and being shocked. In twenty years, I had just scratched the surface of lives I could impact.” So with the help of Covid slowing his work and encouraging friends and family, he set to write his book. “I wanted the book to be practical and easy to apply.” With topics like Faith, Forgiveness and Approval, he certainly has addressed many issues that plague America today. Set to release in September 2021, he hopes that his book will speak to the 40 million young adults that may have no strong role models, lack of purpose, or simply need an encouraging word. It’s an inspirational book, but it’s also a challenge. Comparing life to the final minutes of a game, he wants to stress the importance of living with purpose and intention. “Sports are great. I’ve been in sports my whole life, but life is also so much more.”
If you or someone you know enjoys sports, fun, and an inspirational read, look to pick up your copy of Chris Avila’s new book Two Minute Warning: Time to Fight for What Matters Most on Amazon.
If you are interested in connecting with Chris Avila, follow his on Instagram @mrchrisavila or visit his website at www.officialchrisavila.com
If you are an athlete interested in getting mentored or 1-on-1 coaching: Email mrchrisavila@yahoo.com
Purchase Chris’s Book on Amazon here: Two Minute Warning: Time to Fight for What Matters Most
