At Brigham Young University, the football program is more than a team; it is a conduit for a global mission that stretches from the campus in Provo to the farthest corners of the earth. The university’s motto, “The World is our Campus,” is lived out daily as student‑athletes and coaches embrace service that transcends sport.
A Tradition of Service
This season, 64 players and five coaches have traded their helmets for missionary name tags, serving in 29 different countries and conversing in fifteen languages. Their assignments range from the bustling streets of Brazil to the quiet villages of Samoa, reflecting a commitment that blends competition with compassion.
Missionary service for these athletes is a structured, self‑funded endeavor lasting between eighteen months and two years. Days begin before sunrise with exercise and study, followed by outreach activities that can run from dawn until dusk. Training at Missionary Training Centers equips them with language basics and cultural insights before they are sent to their assigned regions.
The experience cultivates skills that extend far beyond the gridiron. Players learn to communicate across linguistic barriers, adapt to unfamiliar customs, and build resilience in unfamiliar environments. Former teammates such as Emerson Geilman, Kalani Sitake, and Aaron Roderick have spoken publicly about how these journeys have shaped their personal growth and future ambitions.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints oversees the missionary framework, directing volunteers to areas where its message is needed and providing logistical support through its global network. This partnership ensures that the football roster’s service aligns with the broader goals of the Church’s outreach efforts.
Notable alumni who have previously served missions, including Brady Christensen and Austin Collie, illustrate a long‑standing tradition within the program of integrating faith with athletics. Their stories reinforce the notion that the university’s mission extends well beyond the stadium, influencing lives on a worldwide scale.
The program’s impact is reflected in the statistics: over 60 % of BYU students speak a second language, and the university teaches 84 languages across campus. This linguistic diversity, combined with the athletes’ global service, creates a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange that defines the modern BYU experience.