FLS - Faith Life Sport

In this special Best Of episode of the FLS Podcast, we bring together three powerful conversations with athletes from different sports, all sharing their journeys of faith, perseverance, and purpose.We hear from Sunshine Coast surfer Reef Heazlewood, who has risen from riding waves as a toddler to competing on the world stage, including a win at the 2025 Taiwan Open of Surfing. Reef opens up about making his faith his own at 18 and how it shapes his life on tour — through the highs, lows, and opportunities to connect with others.Former Canberra Raiders captain Alan Tongue joins us for an honest and inspiring chat about his rugby league journey, the sacrifices it took to reach the NRL, and how his Christian faith guided him throughout his career and continues to influence his life after football.We also sit down with rising NSW cricketer Ryan Gupta, a promising young talent in the Blues Academy. Ryan shares how his love for cricket began, the moment his faith became personal during high school, and how he balances pursuing professional sport while following Jesus.Three athletes. Three unique journeys. One unifying message of faith in sport and life.Check out Reef's website and his support of the organisation International Needs -  reefmakeswaves.raiselysite.comFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

 In this special “best of” episode of the FLS Podcast, we revisit three powerful conversations from Season 4. Hear from husband-and-wife duo Manasa and Martha Mataele as they share their journey through professional rugby and rugby league, grounded in a shared Christian faith. New Zealand freeride skier Luke McConnell opens up about living out his faith on the slopes, while Matt Ellis reflects on a life shaped by cricket, ministry, and serving regional communities. Three unique stories, one common thread—faith shaping life, purpose, and sport. To follow Luke on Instagram - instagram.com/lukemcconnell.nz/?hl=enTake a listen to Matt's Cricket Podcast - The Cricket Library - shorturl.at/cuFjPAll take a look at his You Tube Channel - youtube.com/@CricketLibraryPodcastFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode of the FLS Podcast, we’re joined by Sunshine Coast surfer Reef Heazlewood, whose journey from riding waves as a toddler to competing on the WSL Challenger and Qualifying Series—including a win at the 2025 Taiwan Open of Surfing—has been driven by passion and perseverance. Reed also shares his personal faith story, how it became his own at 18, and the role it plays in navigating life on tour, from competition highs and lows to leading Bible studies and connecting with fellow surfers. Check out Reef's website and his support of the organisation International Needs -  reefmakeswaves.raiselysite.comFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

A Goulburn junior, Dayne progressed through the Wollongong ranks before making his NRL debut for the Sharks in 2007, later playing for the Storm, Panthers and Cowboys, and finishing his career in the UK. He opens up about his struggles with depression and anxiety, a challenging period in his life, and how teammate David Simmons sharing his faith with him had a significant impact and helped him find purpose. Now a firefighter, Dayne shares a powerful story of resilience and turning his life around.To listen to Dayne's podcast - open.spotify.com/show/0zCOSf47QalOlwuir5ZqmeFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Brad Thorn was one of the toughest and most respected players on the football field. He competed at the highest level in both rugby league and rugby union, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Queensland and Australia in rugby league, before switching codes to enjoy a successful rugby union career. During his time in union, Brad played for several years at the elite level and was part of the legendary New Zealand All Blacks team that won the Rugby World Cup.In this episode of FLS, Graeme sits down with Brad to reflect on his remarkable playing career, his transition into coaching, and the role faith has played throughout his life. Brad also discusses his newly released book, Champions Do Extra, which shares insights into his career, family upbringing, and personal journey of faith.From attending Sunday School while growing up in New Zealand to the development of his Christian faith—strengthened by the influence of a teammate during an overseas tour—Brad speaks openly about the experiences that have shaped both his life and leadership.To check out Brad's new book - harpercollins.com.au/9781775493044/champions-do-extra-lessons-learned-in-footy-and-life-to-build-a-winning-mindset/For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

In this episode we’re joined by former Canberra Raiders captain Alan Tongue for an honest and inspiring conversation about footy, faith and life after the game.Alan shares stories of growing up and playing rugby league in regional NSW, the journey and sacrifices it took to earn his opportunity in the NRL in the early 2000s, and wearing the Raiders jersey.We also dive into his Christian faith, how it shaped him during his playing career, and the work he’s now doing in his post-footy life.For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode of the FLS Podcast, Graeme's catching up with Matt Ellis — a passionate follower of Jesus and lifelong cricket lover whose journey has taken some unexpected turns.Matt shares how his love for cricket began at just eight years old, and how that passion has remained a constant thread throughout his life. From starting out as an insurance salesperson, to stepping into church ministry, and now living and working in Western NSW, Matt reflects on how God has guided each stage of his journey.Today, Matt is helping spread the love of cricket across regional communities while also serving with Scripture Union — combining sport with the sharing of the good news of Jesus. Through cricket camps and community engagement, he’s creating spaces where young people can grow not just in their skills on the field, but in their understanding of faith.Take a listen to Matt's Cricket Podcast - The Cricket Library - shorturl.at/cuFjPAll take a look at his You Tube Channel - youtube.com/@CricketLibraryPodcastFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

 In this episode of the FLS Podcast we chat with Luke McConnell, a freeride skier from New Zealand. Luke shares openly about his Christian faith, how it shapes his life on and off the slopes, and the unique way he’s able to witness to others by wearing a cross on his helmet – making his faith visible every time he skis. To follow Luke on Instagram - instagram.com/lukemcconnell.nz/?hl=enFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode of the FLS Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Gupta, one of New South Wales’ promising young cricketers. Ryan first fell in love with the game around the age of eight or nine, a passion that has carried him into the NSW Blues Academy as he continues to develop as an exciting player to watch.Raised in a Christian family, with his father serving as a pastor, Ryan grew up hearing the gospel from a young age. It was during high school, however, that he made his faith his own and began to take it seriously. Ryan shares about that journey, how his faith shapes his cricket, and what it looks like to follow Jesus while pursuing a career in professional sportFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode of the FLS Podcast, we sit down with our first-ever husband-and-wife guests — Manasa and Martha Mataele. Both athletes in their own right, Manasa plays professional rugby while Martha pursues her career in rugby league.They open up about their upbringings in Fiji and New Zealand, the different paths that led them into sport, and the shared faith that anchors their lives. The Mataeles talk about navigating the challenges of professional football while supporting each other as a couple, and how their Christian faith continues to guide them both on and off the fieldFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode, Graeme looks back over extra the highlights of Season 3.FLS - Past and present Christians in sport sharing about their faith, life and sport.We hear from -Jane Powell —former England cricketer, ex-national hockey coach, and now President of Yorkshire County Cricket Club—shares her remarkable journey through elite sport. She reflects on the highs and lows of coaching and leadership, and how her Christian faith has shaped every stage of her life. Jane speaks candidly about living out her faith both on and off the field.Kare Adenegan - British wheelchair athlete and Paralympian, who discovered her passion for sport after watching the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Born with cerebral palsy, Kare shares how seeing wheelchair racing for the first time opened her eyes to a new world—one that was fast, thrilling, and full of possibility. She reflects on her journey from a curious teenager to a world-class athlete, the challenges she’s overcome, and how her Christian faith continues to guide and ground her. This is a story about speed, strength, and the power of belief—on and off the track.Kare's Podcast - Sporting for His Glory - podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/sporting-for-his-glory/id1658384889Dave Morgan - Born in New Zealand and raised in Sydney, Dave’s journey has taken him from a range of jobs to studying theology at Moore College. He later served in ministry across regional New South Wales. Now back in Christchurch, he works with Athletes in Action, supporting student and pro athletes in their faith. Athlete's in Action NZ - athletesinaction.org.nzFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode, Graeme looks back over the highlights of Season 3...so far .FLS - Past and present Christians in sport sharing about their faith, life and sport.We hear from -Cam ButlerCam takes us through his journey growing up in Melbourne with a deep love for sport. He reflects on his incredible 15-year tenure as Chaplain to the Melbourne AFL side, offering a unique look into the intersection of faith and professional sport. Cam also shares his impactful work with Sports Chaplaincy Australia, helping athletes navigate the challenges of their careers. He also discusses his involvement with the Urban Revs ministry. Join us as Cam opens up about his experiences and the ways sport, faith, and service have shaped his life.urbanrevs.comEllie RattuEllie is an inspiring English netballer who made her international debut in 2022. Raised in a Christian household, Ellie’s faith became an integral part of her life as a teenager, and she’s since used her platform in sport to share her beliefs with others. She opens up about her journey, balancing the demands of professional sport with her personal faith. www.netballsl.comStephen WilsonStephen shares his journey of faith, overcoming a life-altering accident at age 12 that led to the loss of his leg. He reflects on how his Christian faith guided him and shaped his path into education. Now serving as the principal of a Christian high school in Queensland, he discusses the profound impact his faith continues to have on his leadership and daily life.For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Born in New Zealand and raised in Sydney, Dave’s journey has taken him from a range of jobs to studying theology at Moore College. He later served in ministry across regional New South Wales. Now back in Christchurch, he works with Athletes in Action, supporting student and pro athletes in their faith.To get in touch with Dave - [email protected] Athlete's in Action NZ - athletesinaction.org.nzFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode, we sit down with Kare Adenegan, British wheelchair athlete and Paralympian, who discovered her passion for sport after watching the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Born with cerebral palsy, Kare shares how seeing wheelchair racing for the first time opened her eyes to a new world—one that was fast, thrilling, and full of possibility. She reflects on her journey from a curious teenager to a world-class athlete, the challenges she’s overcome, and how her Christian faith continues to guide and ground her. This is a story about speed, strength, and the power of belief—on and off the track.Kare's Podcast - Sporting for His Glory - podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/sporting-for-his-glory/id1658384889 For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

 In this episode, Jane Powell—former England cricketer, ex-national hockey coach, and now President of Yorkshire County Cricket Club—shares her remarkable journey through elite sport. She reflects on the highs and lows of coaching and leadership, and how her Christian faith has shaped every stage of her life. Jane speaks candidly about living out her faith both on and off the field.Yorkshire County Cricket - yorkshireccc.com For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

Growing up in South Africa, but then moving to Australia with his family at a young age, Marnus Labuschagne has always loved cricket.Coming through the grades in Queensland cricket to then making his Australian debut in 2018, he has since become a mainstay in the Test side, along with playing some One Day and T20 Internationals over the past few years.Marnus in our chat shares about his upbringing, how his Mum would write bible verses on his cricket shoes, his Christian faith and how he travels the world playing cricket and having his family along by his side.For more information on Marnus  - https://www.marnus.com.au/For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or InstagramAnd you can follow Marnus on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/marnus3/

In this inspiring episode, Stephen shares his journey of faith, overcoming a life-altering accident at age 12 that led to the loss of his leg. He reflects on how his Christian faith guided him and shaped his path into education. Now serving as the principal of a Christian high school in Queensland, he discusses the profound impact his faith continues to have on his leadership and daily life.For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode, we chat with Ellie, an inspiring English netballer who made her international debut in 2022. Raised in a Christian household, Ellie’s faith became an integral part of her life as a teenager, and she’s since used her platform in sport to share her beliefs with others. She opens up about her journey, balancing the demands of professional sport with her personal faith.  www.netballsl.comFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

 In this episode, Cam takes us through his journey growing up in Melbourne with a deep love for sport. He reflects on his incredible 15-year tenure as Chaplain to the Melbourne AFL side, offering a unique look into the intersection of faith and professional sport. Cam also shares his impactful work with Sports Chaplaincy Australia, helping athletes navigate the challenges of their careers. He also discusses his involvement with the Urban Revs ministry.  Join us as Cam opens up about his experiences and the ways sport, faith, and service have shaped his life. urbanrevs.comsportschaplaincy.com.auFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.com

In this episode, Graeme looks back over the highlights of Season 2...so far .FLS - Past and present Christians in sport sharing about their faith, life and sport.We hear from - Ian Bishop - CricketIan grew up on the Caribbean island of Trinidad, starting playing cricket at a younger age. He shares in our chat about growing up with his faith, his cricketing debut for the West Indies and now as he travels the world as a cricket commentator, how he stays connected with his church back home.Debbie Bruwer (nee Flood)Debbie didn't start rowing until she was in her mid teens, but went on to represent Great Britain at 3 Olympic Games, picking up Silver at both the 2004 and 2008 games.In this episode she shares about her Christian faith, how she got into the sport, and what she's doing now through her role helping other athletes with the Christians in Sport ministry in the UK. To find out more about Debbie's work and Christians in Sport in the UK - christiansinsport.org.ukRoy Harley - Christian SurfersRoy is the International Director for Christian Surfers. In this episode he talks about his upbringing in South Africa, and how he got into surfing. Even, how he actually gave away surfing for a period of time. How his Christian faith was cemented on a mission trip in the bush - a long way from the nearest beach!And,  he also shares about the new version of the Surfers Bible which Christian Surfers has produced. For more details on Christian Surfers - christiansurfers.netTo get a copy of the Surfers Bible - thesurfersbible.comFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

In this episode, Graeme looks back over the highlights of Season 2...so far . FLS - Past and present Christians in sport sharing about their faith, life and sport.We hear from -  Dave Nilsson - BaseballDave didn't grew up a Christian, but upon moving to America to pursue his baseball career, it was seeing how his fellow team mates acted and related, that David came closer to God.  Sharing in this conversation about his career, his faith and what's next in another move back to America shortly for his family as he helps lead the next generation of athletes.Marnus Labuschange - CricketGrowing up in South Africa, but then moving to Australia with his family at a young age, Marnus Labuschagne has always loved cricket.Coming through the grades in Queensland cricket to then making his Australian debut in 2018, he has since become a mainstay in the Test side, along with playing some One Day and T20 Internationals over the past few years.Marnus in our chat shares about his upbringing, how his Mum would write bible verses on his cricket shoes, his Christian faith and how he travels the world playing cricket and having his family along by his side.For more information on Marnus  - https://www.marnus.com.au/Jason RomanoGrowing up in a family that loved sports, it’s all Jason ever wanted to be involved with.Beginning his media journey in local radio, it then lead to a 17 year career as a Producer and Manager at EPSN - the worlds biggest sports network. Since 2017, Jason has combined his Christian faith and love of sport as the Director of Media with Christian sports ministry - Sports Spectrum. In this episode, Jason shares about his career, faith and the teams he loves to support!Jason's website - www.jasonromano.comFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Debbie Bruwer (nee Flood) didn't start rowing until she was in her mid teens, but went on to represent Great Britain at 3 Olympic Games, picking up Silver at both the 2004 and 2008 games.In this episode she shares about her Christian faith, how she got into the sport, and what she's doing now through her role helping other athletes with the Christians in Sport ministry in the UK. To find out more about Debbie's work and Christians in Sport in the UK - christiansinsport.org.ukFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Roy is the International Director for Christian Surfers. In this episode he talks about his upbringing in South Africa, and how he got into surfing. Even, how he actually gave away surfing for a period of time. How his Christian faith was cemented on a mission trip in the bush - a long way from the nearest beach!And,  he also shares about the new version of the Surfers Bible which Christian Surfers has produced. For more details on Christian Surfers - christiansurfers.netTo get a copy of the Surfers Bible - thesurfersbible.comFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Growing up in a family that loved sports, it’s all Jason ever wanted to be involved with.Beginning his media journey in local radio, it then lead to a 17 year career as a Producer and Manager at EPSN - the worlds biggest sports network. Since 2017, Jason has combined his Christian faith and love of sport as the Director of Media with Christian sports ministry - Sports Spectrum. In this episode, Jason shares about his career, faith and the teams he loves to support!Jason's website - www.jasonromano.comFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Growing up in South Africa, but then moving to Australia with his family at a young age, Marnus Labuschagne has always loved cricket. Coming through the grades in Queensland cricket to then making his Australian debut in 2018, he has since become a mainstay in the Test side, along with playing some One Day and T20 Internationals over the past few years.Marnus in our chat shares about his upbringing, how his Mum would write bible verses on his cricket shoes, his Christian faith and how he travels the world playing cricket and having his family along by his side.For more information on Marnus  - https://www.marnus.com.au/For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or InstagramAnd you can follow Marnus on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/marnus3/

Growing up on the South Coast of NSW in Australia, Abigail has been competing in judo tournaments around the world and won a bonze medal at 2022 Commonwealth Games. In this episode she shares about her faith, life and travelling around the world.For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

David Nilsson didn't grew up a Christian, but upon moving to America to pursue his baseball career, it was seeing how his fellow team mates acted and related, that David came closer to God.  Sharing in this conversation about his career, his faith and what's next in another move back to America shortly for his family as he helps lead the next generation of athletes. To find out more about Baseball in Australia -  baseball.com.auFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Ian Bishop growing up on the Caribbean island of Trinidad, starting playing cricket at a younger age. He shares in our chat about growing up with his faith, his cricketing debut for the West Indies and now as he travels the world as a cricket commentator, how he stays connected with his church back home.Follow Ian on Instagram - instagram.com/irbishi/ For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

In this episode of the FLS podcast, Russ Harmon shares about his time as a pastor on the Gold Coast, to now helping to place Chaplains in Surf Clubs across AustraliaLife Saving Chaplaincy - lifesavingchaplaincy.com.auSports Chaplaincy Australia - sportschaplaincy.com.auFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

In this episode of the FLS podcast, we hear from former South African international Shaun Pollock. He shares about his cricketing career, his Christian faith, how he's now enjoying his time in the tv commentary box and what the future of cricket might look like. For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

In this episode, Graeme looks back over the highlights of 2023. Past and present Christians in sport sharing about their faith, life and sport.This episode with a cricketing theme, hearing from Simon Flinders - Cricket NSW Chaplain, Johan Botha - former South African cricketer and Chandika Hathurusingha - former Sri Lankan cricketer, now coach of Bangladesh For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

In this episode, Graeme looks back over the highlights of 2023. Past and present Christians in sport sharing about their faith, life and sport.We hear from Jemimah Rodrigues - Cricket, Dan Smith - former Olympic swimmer, Brett Davis - Christian Surfers, Brad Thorn - dual international - rugby league and rugby union and Kayla McKenna - soccerFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Jazmin grew up playing soccer with her brother and her Dad as the coach. She's travelled the world with soccer and now calls Australia home playing with the Central Coast Mariners Women's side.In this episode she shares about her faith, mission work and how along with her husband, they're enjoying their time in Australia.For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Simon Flinders with a background of a Sydney Anglican Minister, with his love of cricket, took up the role as Sports Chaplain with the New South Wales Cricket Team in 2004.In this episode Simon shares with us about the role and what it involves, the wider role of a Sport Chaplain and we talk a bit of cricket too!Details and information on Sports Chaplaincy Australia - sportschaplaincy.com.au For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Growing up on the South Coast of NSW in Australia, Abigail has been competing in judo tournaments around the world and last year won a bonze medal at 2022 Commonwealth Games. In this episode she shares about her faith, life and travelling around the world.For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Hear about Johan's journey growing up in South African, having his bowling action questioned, captaining his country. He also shares about his faith and what he's doing in cricket these days.FLS - conversations with past and present Christians in sportFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

In this episode, Kayla shares about her overseas soccer journey from the USA to Scotland and now to playing in Spain. Hear about her time at the recent Women’s World Cup in Australia and her Christian faith.FLS - conversations with past and present Christians in sportFor more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Brad Thorn was one of the toughest players on the footy field. Playing at the highest level in both rugby league for the Brisbane Broncos, Queensland and Australia, and also in rugby union where played for several years and won a World Cup with the legendary New Zealand All Blacks.Graeme catches up with Brad in this episode of FLS as he shares about his days playing, then becoming a coach and about his faith. From attending sunday school growing up in New Zealand, to his Christian walk which was helped along by a fellow footy team mate on an overseas tour.For more interviews just like this, go to  - faithlifesport.comSend the FLS team a message via Facebook or Instagram

Chandika Hathurusingha shares in this episode of the FLS podcast about his upbringing in Sri Lanka. How he first heard about Christianity through a cricketing team mate, to now his days of coaching the Bangladesh national team. For more details on the FLS podcast, head to faithlifesport.com  

In this episode of FLS, Graeme catches up with Christian Surfers founder Brett Davis. We hear how from started the ministry in his mothers lounge room at their southern Sydney home, it has now grown in to having missions in many countries around the world. For more details on the FLS podcast, head to https://faithlifesport.com/ And to find out more about Christian Surfers -  www.christiansurfers.org.auwww.christiansurfers.net

In this first episode of the FLS podcast, Graeme catches up with Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues. Hearing how growing up playing gully cricket as a youngster to at 17 playing her first international match for India.Jemimah shares about her Christian faith and now is playing cricket in various tournaments around the world!For more details on the FLS podcast, head to faithlifesport.com  

In each episode of FLS, Graeme Burrill goes into extra time as he catches up with past and present Christians in Sport from around the world to hear about their faith, life and sport.  Sharing openly about their faith, life both on and off the field and their sport For more details head to  - faithlifesport.com  

In each episode of FLS, Graeme Burrill goes into extra time as he catches up with past and present Christians in Sport from around the world to hear about their faith, life and sport.  Sharing openly about their faith, life both on and off the field and their sport For more details head to  - faithlifesport.com