Clark Hunt, the owner and CEO of the Kansas City Chiefs, gave credit to God when his team won the AFC championship on Sunday. While accepting the trophy named after his father, Hunt on national television gave recognition to his team, their fans, his late father who founded the AFL and the Chiefs, and to God.
“I’m so honored to accept this trophy on behalf of this incredible team, and the best fans in the National Football League,” he stated in post-game interviews. “The Lord has blessed our family in so many ways. Coach (Andy) Reid, what a game today. Great job today. My dad would love the grit and determination of this team.”
Hunt has been outspoken about his faith in Christ over the years.
“I want to thank the Lord for blessing us with this opportunity. The glory belongs to him,” he said after receiving the AFC trophy last year. And after winning the 2020 Super Bowl, Hunt said, “I want to thank the Lord for blessing our family with all these incredible people who have helped us bring this championship home.”
During a speech last November at a luncheon in Tyler, Texas, Hunt told the audience he makes his Christian faith a top priority for his staff. Arrowhead Stadium offers a nondenominational pregame chapel service for fans who attend the games. Chaplains also play an active part with the team.
“We want our employees to develop spiritually,” Hunt said. “In the National Football League, Christ is really glorified. My identity is my faith in Christ.”
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes and other Chiefs players have also spoken out about their faith. “My faith has always been a big part of what I do,” Mahomes said. “I’ve grown up in church and faith really helps you know why you’re playing the game, and who you’re doing it for.”
“There’s definitely a lot of Christians in the organization, and when it starts at the top, that’s pretty powerful, with the owner, and he kind of sets it from there,” offensive lineman Stefen Wisniewski said. “But there are definitely players following Jesus on the team too and it’s been fun to get to know some of those guys, and try to share with them and encourage them. At the end of the day, when the confetti’s falling, I just hope it’s Jesus that gets the glory.”
–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice