How SportsLife is Transforming the CrossFit® Community
In its first outreach event of 2026, SportsLife’s ministry to the CrossFit® community, Faith RXD, maintained a daily presence at Gymreapers Wodapalooza from March 12 to 15. This annual festival and competition, now in its 14th year, took place on Miami Beach and attracted over 40,000 attendees, including more than 2,000 athletes competing in 55 divisions.
Mike McDonald, Executive Director of Faith RXD, and Carl Perry, Chief Sport Officer for SportsLife Leadership, spent their time connecting with attendees at their vendor booth.
“It was great to reconnect with people involved with Faith RXD and introduce ourselves to those who didn’t know we existed,” McDonald said.
“We had numerous inquiries about starting a chapter, which was exciting. There was genuine interest in what we’re doing.” – Mike McDonald
For McDonald, this was a first as the Executive Director, but he’s no stranger to Wodapalooza. He previously attended to support friends and competed in 2020. His familiarity with the event facilitated deeper connections.
“This event is special to me,” he shared. “It’s about the power of presence and reconnecting with people. I heard stories of how Faith RXD helped individuals through tough times, like a man whose wife passed away and found solace through our chapter. Experiences like these are what make this organization impactful.”
Throughout the event, Faith RXD collaborated with Vessel Training Company, a Christian-owned apparel group, and Mayhem Faith, another CrossFit® ministry, to host morning coffee and fellowship gatherings featuring devotionals and prayer.
“Rather than competing, we thought it effective to unify and minister to the CrossFit® community through these devotionals,” McDonald said.
“It’s not about our individual organizations; it’s about God.”
– Mike McDonald
McDonald and Perry spent their days on the beach meeting people, hearing their stories, and praying for them at the booth. They distributed hundreds of “Faith Workout of the Day” devotional books, wristbands, and event-specific t-shirts.
“The beauty of CrossFit® is that we don’t have to chase people,” Perry explained. “We show up at events like Wodapalooza, and sports leaders come to us. It’s powerful. Our goal isn’t just to expand; we want to deepen our impact within the CrossFit™ community. At these events, we can spiritually uplift attendees simply by being present.”
As SportsLife looks ahead, its focus on staff development and certifying SportsLife Leaders will be key in reaching the CrossFit® community. By equipping individuals with tools and training, SportsLife aims to cultivate a network of passionate leaders to support athletes in their walk with Christ. This approach strengthens existing connections and lays the groundwork for new chapters.
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