Athletes in Action Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Dave Klassen as the ministry’s new National Director. After a prayerful assessment and selection process by the Power to Change Ministries Executive Leadership Team, the decision to commission Dave to lead Athletes in Action into its 44th season of ministry was unanimous.
“Dave Klassen has a passion for the life-changing message of Jesus that is contagious,” says Rod Bergen, President of Power to Change Ministries. “I am encouraged to have such a humble, supportive and courageous leader at the helm of Athletes in Action.”
Dave has faithfully served with AIA for over 25 years and has a long history of leading Campus Ministries, directing AIA Sport Camps and more recently has held the role of Director of Pro Sports Ministry. Serving as the chaplain for the BC Lions and Vancouver Canucks, Dave is dedicated to encouraging professional athletes to passionately follow Christ, love and lead their families and use their lives to make a difference in their communities. Outside of sports ministry, Dave is an author and, along with his wife Rushia, is a public speaker with Family Life Canada.
In a world that pushes us to become bigger, faster and stronger, there is an increase in athletes, coaches, parents and fans attributing their identity, value and purpose to stats and performance. Such a quest for perfection will inevitably lead to disillusionment, isolation and emptiness. As Mohamed Ali once said, “I had it all, and it was nothing”.
“I believe sport unites people with a common language and has the power to inspire nations. We have a tremendous opportunity to engage the sport culture and provide them with hope, identity and purpose in Jesus.” – Dave Klassen
Athletes in Action wants to have a presence on fields, in gymnasiums, at university campuses and in stadiums around the world. We want to be next to athletes in the midst of their fears and frustrations. When conflict of mind, body, and soul arises, we want to point them to the One in whom their value and significance can be found.
For more information about Athletes in Action, please visit www.athletesinaction.ca.