Leading With Purpose: A Christ-Centered Vision For FC Athletics
Interview With Athletic Director Stan Baston
August 21, 2025 | 3-4 min read
How do you plan to make biblical principles a part of the team culture?
Our goal in athletics will be to train the whole person. We plan to weave in His truth while in class, practice, strength and conditioning, and games as we maintain a laser focus on the mental, physical, and spiritual health of our student athletes. Our coaches and staff will mentor our programs using biblical principles like hard work, servant leadership, humility, and courage to shape everything we do.
What are some of your main goals for the athletic department at Florida College?
I have so many. Working closely with Dr. Weaver and believing in his vision and the Board’s vision about this amazing college fuels my excitement daily. Now is the time to start growing our programs, enhancing our facilities, strengthening our coaching staff, and continuing to shift our athletic culture to a Christ-centered approach for recruiting and mentorship. These opportunities take time, but the desire to achieve, experience, and fulfill the vision is here and we are ready to begin the work. What an exciting time to be a Falcon!
With your leadership experience, what areas will you focus on to help grow the athletic programs and make sure they stay competitive while staying true to the college’s values?
Prioritizing the total well-being of athletes— mentally, physically, and spiritually—will enhance competitiveness while aligning with the college’s values.
As a former player, I performed at my best when my physical, mental, and spiritual health were all functioning at a high level. I was able to manage success with humility and failure with courage. I was able to communicate effectively to other players and coaches. I was better equipped to handle the physical and mental stress of the competition.
Having our coaches recruit athletes who embody these qualities will be essential. Consistently reinforcing them every day will ensure long-term success and harmony with the college’s values. This will define our culture moving forward, and as a natural outcome, we will also develop a winning tradition.
How do you plan to strengthen the connection between the athletic department, students, alumni, and the community?
This is one of my top priorities. Uniting our students with the student-athletes is key to building the culture and energy around our programs. By embracing the values and integrating faith into everything we do in athletics, we will extend a bridge that connects the entire student body, alumni, and community.
We will expect our student-athletes to be present and excited about chapel, Sowers club, SBGA events, intramural events, charity functions, and interacting with alumni at events. When we recognize the value and importance of the student experience and serving others, our student-athletes will reflect that same respect and appreciation in our programs. The kindness shown to each other on campus and at events will continue to join us together and increase the excitement around game days and game attendance.
How will you build a strong Christ-centered leadership culture among the coaching staff?
A sound athletic program must start with strong, Christ-centered leadership. As coaches and mentors, we will take time on a consistent basis to shape and mold each other in Christ. We will embrace the principle of “iron sharpens iron” in how we uplift each other and hold ourselves to the highest standards as leaders in the
athletic department.
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