Heart of an Athlete
April 2011
Q & A with Annie Lockwood
Arizona State University
Softball
“…I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
Annie Lockwood had high expectations for her athletic career when she walked on to the softball team at Arizona State University in 2009. Knowing the Sun Devils were fresh off a national championship and hoping to continue in their success, Lockwood immediately knew she wanted to be a part of it. Now three seasons later, she has realized that dream and stands amazed at what the Lord has done in her life—and how she loves to play for His glory.
STV: Being a walk-on isn’t easy. What has God taught you through your experience at ASU?
AL: I had this idea coming in that I was going to be an awesome player, but I realized pretty quickly how much harder I was going to have to work. At the time, it was all about me, and I wasn’t willing to put in much effort. But now I realize that the hard work I do is for the Lord.
STV: How has FCA been a part of your faith story?
AL: During my sophomore year I met (FCA’s) Julie Watt. I didn’t know what FCA was, and I didn’t have any desire to have a relationship with Jesus, but Julie was great. She was always there for me, teaching me from the Bible.
That summer I went to FCA Camp, and I was so amazed by the hearts of the people there. I wanted to fill my life with as much of God as possible, and I couldn’t get enough of Him. On the last night of camp, I gave my life over to the Lord. It was an experience that I can’t even put into words. Following Christ wasn’t something I planned or expected, but it has completely changed my life.
STV: How has FCA continued to minister to you and your team?
AL: I’m one of several girls on the team who regularly go to Huddle meetings because we see what it has done in our lives. FCA provides an amazing support system. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, and we are there for each other through our Huddle. The relationships we have aren’t surface-level; they’re real and deep. Through FCA, I also have the opportunity to go to high school Huddles and share what Christ has done in my life. I’m a different person now—so full of life! FCA gives me the opportunity to tell them how I met the Lord and how they can, too.
STV: You were recently moved to a new position on the field. How is the transition from infield to outfield going?
AL: The move from third base to right field was something I wasn’t prepared for. When I saw my name listed with the outfielders on our first practice schedule, I asked my coach if it was a mistake. We already have solid infielders, but the coaches liked how I was hitting, so they found a position for me in right field. They knew it would be best because of my potential as a hitter, and they were willing to take a chance on me in a different position. It worked out, and I absolutely love playing in the outfield now.
STV: Did that transition stretch your faith?
AL: Yes. For a long time I didn’t trust anybody, including my coaches. I wanted to be in control and have everything my way because I was too stubborn to put my faith and trust in anyone else. Now I know that if I trust in the Lord with all I have, He is going to make everything the way it should be.
What about you?
Do you, like Iver, want your life to bring glory to God? Do you want it to be worth more than medals and stats? Good news! The same God who lovingly guides Callista's path wants to guide yours, too. All you have to do is respond to Him. Revelation 3:20 says, “Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in…” Would you open the door of your heart to Jesus Christ today? Respond to Him in prayer and ask Him to become the Lord of your life.
If you don’t know exactly what that means or where to start, that’s OK. It’s perfectly legitimate to seek and to ask questions. Contact a trusted Christian friend or pastor and tell them about your curiosity or your decision. They will be able to advise you. If you don’t have anyone to call, go online to morethanwinning.org, or call FCA Softball at 352-516-4556.