Through an exploration of the historical Christian understandings of the human body, human pleasure, and sport, and building on a biblical theology of creation, humanity, and pleasure, the student will develop a contemporary theology of sport for life and ministry.

An overview of the international sports industry, the various career opportunities it holds and the ways in which Christ-followers can missionaly impact it. Introduction to areas of study such as sociology of sport, sport finance, sport law, sport marketing, and facility and event management from international perspectives.

Sport for development (SD) involves using sport as a catalyst to address a range of social, economic, political and health issues. While a great deal of SD happens at a local level around specific needs or opportunities, sport has increasingly been utilized as a tool by policy-makers, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to "develop" marginalized groups in the "global South."  The goal of this course is to critically examine the intersections of sport, international development and peace. In particular, various theories, concepts and case studies are explored that contribute to understanding how international development practitioners, policy-makers, governments and donors may (or may not) be actively confronting norms and processes that make assumptions about intersections of race, colonialism, and other issues through SD programming, policy and practice.

To help equip the sport management professional we will introduce students to legal aspects of sport and recreation in various international settings. From city recreation programs at a local park to professional teams in giant stadiums, there are legal issues that management must navigate to run successful programs while limiting the organization’s liability. Since different locales have different laws, the course will endeavor to introduce the student to the legal issues from a global perspective.

Presented in this course will be an overview of fundamental marketing concepts and practices as applied to sport and recreation organizations in various international settings. Areas of focus will include public relations and communication, promotions, sponsorship, and producing a marketing plan that takes into consideration international perspectives.

The term ‘Sport as Mission’ recognizes that behind the manmade structures of sport and recreational activities are the God-given abilities and impetus for creative expression through bodily movement. Students will be taught the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of ministry in and around the sport and recreation environment across the globe.