Sports is often a unifying factor, as Pope Francis has shared. These men and women used their athletic abilities to make other people's lives better, or to share their deep faith for the world to see:
Landry Weber - leaves the football pitch to join the clergy
The football player for Kansas State took the decision to hang up his football cleats to don a cassock after his college education. It's always refreshing to see the young join religious life, but when the temptations of fame and fortune are rejected, it inspires many.
Sister Linda Sim - Taekwondo champ at 67
The petite religious leaned on her faith and her desire for peace when she was crowned a world champion in South Korea this year. The sister showed how sports and religious life can go hand-in-hand.
Kevin Knox - supporting those in faith
The young NBA player is using his fame and fortune to give back to those who helped him along the way.
Sonya Curry - choosing life!
While technically not a sports' star, the mom of NBA star Steph Curry made the brave decision to share with the world how close she came to aborting her son. Her story, and the bond she has with her son, is one that can inspire many in times of difficulty.
Hendon Hooker - gets his priorities right
The young quarterback headed straight to his mom when his side were victorious. There's something adorable and reassuring about a man who openly shares his love for his mother!
Tim Tebow - invites us to grow closer to God
The quarterback doesn't shy away from encouraging others to join him in living a life of faith. In this impassioned speech, he points out some very important points about how we can improve ourselves in the eyes of God.
Robert Lewandowski - Polish soccer captain declaring his faith
While all eyes were on the World Cup champ, Lionel Messi, this Polish player spoke profoundly about his faith.
