Teacher and Coach: BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake Shares Messages of Hope and Faith at Devotional
Brigham Young University head football coach Kalani Sitake is known for leading his team with passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to excellence. But beyond the football field, Sitake is also a mentor, teacher, and spiritual guide. At a recent devotional, he delivered an inspiring message of hope and faith, encouraging students and faculty to trust in God, embrace challenges, and lead with love.
Faith as a Foundation
Sitake began his address by emphasizing the importance of faith as a guiding principle in both sports and life. He shared personal stories of trials and triumphs, illustrating how faith has helped him navigate the pressures of coaching, competition, and leadership. “In football, we prepare for every game with strategy and discipline,” he said. “But in life, our ultimate playbook is our faith in God. When we trust Him, we find strength beyond our own abilities.”
The coach reminded students that life, like football, comes with setbacks and obstacles. However, he stressed that faith provides the resilience needed to push forward. Whether facing academic struggles, personal doubts, or unexpected hardships, Sitake encouraged his audience to rely on prayer, scripture study, and the support of their community.
Hope in the Face of Adversity
Another key theme of Sitake’s devotional was the power of hope. He acknowledged that everyone experiences difficult moments, but he urged students to remember that hope is always within reach. “Even when you feel like you’re on the losing side of life’s battles, remember that God is still coaching you from the sidelines,” he said with a smile.
Sitake shared anecdotes from his coaching career, highlighting moments when his team had to dig deep to overcome adversity. He connected these experiences to everyday life, reminding students that setbacks are not the end of the road but opportunities for growth. “Sometimes, we have to lose a game to learn how to win,” he explained. “The same is true in life. Our struggles shape us, teach us, and prepare us for greater things ahead.”
Leading with Love
A coach is not just someone who draws up plays and calls timeouts; a true leader inspires, uplifts, and brings out the best in others. Sitake spoke about the importance of leading with love, whether in sports, school, or personal relationships. “Christ’s greatest commandment was to love one another,” he said. “If we lead with love, we can make a difference in the lives of those around us.”
He encouraged students to show kindness, patience, and understanding in their daily interactions. In a world that often prioritizes competition and comparison, Sitake reminded everyone that true success comes from lifting others. “Winning is great, but the greatest victories are the ones that come from serving and supporting those in need,” he said.
A Call to Action
As he concluded his address, Sitake left his audience with a challenge: to live with greater faith, hope, and love. He encouraged students to trust in God’s plan, stay positive even in difficult times, and seek ways to bless others.
“Every one of you has a divine purpose,” he reminded them. “Embrace your journey, trust in the Lord, and never forget that you are loved.”
Sitake’s message resonated deeply with those in attendance, serving as a powerful reminder that faith is not just a belief—it’s a way of life. Whether on the field or off, his words continue to inspire others to press forward with faith and hope.
