ABSTRACT
This essay examines ‘athletic identity’ from a Christian theological and psychological standpoint. In discussing the concept of identity within the sports world, I address a range of related issues, such as idolatry, sin and states of heart such as pride and humility. According to Phil Night, founder and chairperson of Nike, sports ‘define the culture of the world’ and thus an examination of the cultural context in which identity is formed is also presented. Issues surrounding welfare and consultancy method are also woven in to the narrative of this chapter, given that these dimensions are central to effective practice, care and ethics of working with athletes for the sport psychologist.
