The GACAA connects Christian leaders of the sports industry. We provide a virtual, Christ-centered program focused on discipleship, professional development, mental health awareness, and spiritual growth. The GACAA teams up with athletes, parents, coaches, schools, and organizations to strengthen society and improve the overall quality of life. Sports help athletes build excellent character traits such as confidence, grit, resilience, and self-discipline.  Unfortunately, playing sports does not make athletes immune to mental health challenges. With pressures to perform in the game, as well as the temptations they face in the world today, being an athlete can be incredibly challenging for a person’s mental health. Student-athletes have additional pressures to maintain their classwork and grades on top of practice and games. Mental health issues continue to rise in athletes worldwide. With young adults, especially college athletes, the statistics are startling: 33% of all college students experience significant symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. Among that group, 30% seek help. But only 10% of college athletes with mental health conditions seek necessary help.  Among professional athletes, data shows that up to 35% of elite athletes suffer from a mental health crisis that may manifest as stress, eating disorders, burnout, or depression and anxiety.

The GACAA is a strong supporter of Mental Health Awareness and recognizes that it takes a team effort to improve these issues athletes face in society today.  Without a strong supporting cast and a relationship with Jesus Christ, overcoming adversity in both sports and in life is extremely difficult. Whether you’re an athlete needing help, or a parent, coach, or organization wanting to help others, there is no better time to join the Gulf-Atlantic Christian Athletic Alliance.