what we do
We Coach
We come alongside sports chaplains and sports, rec and fitness leaders in local churches to provide strategic insight, focused vision, clarity of next steps and mobilization into effective action.
We Connect
We work to creatively connect Chaplains with other Chaplains and Sports, Rec and Fitness leaders in Local Churches with other like-minded leaders for mutual support, encouragement and sharing ofideas and resources.
We provide Resources
We equip Sports Chaplains and leaders in Sports, Rec and Fitness ministries with essential resources to help them serve more effectively in the local church.
who we are
CEDE SPORTS was born out of a need to mobilize churches and chaplains into sports ministry built upon relational outreach. Bob Dyar founded the ministry after recognizing a gap in both churches and chaplaincy: the lack of access to relational models of ministry that meet people where they are.
Sports open the door. To make a long-term impact, however, we must be a part of people’s lives. Our history includes a growing chaplain ministry at Joe Gibbs Racing, new staff and 30 years of growth. In those 30 years, we have worked with thousands of local churches in five continents and sports chaplains in more than 100 countries. We currently have staff and associates in North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa.
On Sept. 1, 2026, CEDE SPORTS will officially merge with Leadership International. A major step that accelerates our vision. CEDE SPORTS will become a core division of Leadership International, creating new opportunities to equip leaders and transform communities worldwide.
Along the way, our vision to mobilize churches and chaplains has remained constant. Our hope will always be to see God continue to use the universal language of sports to reach others for his glory.
A Division of Leadership International
On Sept. 1, 2026, CEDE SPORTS will officially merge with Leadership International!
This isn't just a merger—it's a major step that accelerates our vision. CEDE SPORTS will become a core division of Leadership International, creating new opportunities to equip leaders and transform communities worldwide.
What does this mean for the future of CEDE SPORTS?
A Massive Global Reach: Expanding our footprint across Africa and Asia to bring sports ministry to high-impact regions.
More Resources, Bigger Impact: Join teams to gain more content, richer tools and an expanded roster.
Stronger Foundations: Streamlined financial and operational management helps every dollar and resource go further.
This is a monumental milestone in our story, and God is opening doors far beyond what we could have imagined!
Global Impact
KEY:
Blue countries show where our staff currently minister.
Orange countries show where our staff are in the process of starting to minister.
The Sports Ministry Community App
The Sports Ministry Community app is a community compiled of sports ministers across the globe. The app bridges together two critical areas of sports ministry as sports chaplains and sport, rec and fitness leaders can network, message and collaborate with each other.
By joining the Sports Ministry Community app, you’re stepping into something bigger than a network—you’re becoming part of a movement. A movement where faith and athletics come together to impact lives, strengthen leaders and inspire the next generation.
How to download our app:
Join either one or both communities
Click the share button
Scroll down and click the add to Home Screen button
Go to the home screen on your phone and use the SMC app