News Releases - Athletes in Action

Xenia Sports Complex and Retreat Center Hires New GM

Veteran Division I Athletic Admin Steve Harrell Joins Athletes in Action

XENIA, Ohio, Aug. 02, 2023—Athletes in Action welcomes Steve Harrell as the new general manager for its Sports Complex and Retreat Center in Xenia, Ohio. Harrell brings with him a 20-year career in Division I athletics administration.

“Steve distinguished himself by his humility, growth mindset, marketing and development work, track record of program excellence and mission-minded focus within his areas of expertise," said Eric Nelson, VP of Catalytic Ministries for Athletes in Action.

Housed on the Athletes in Action campus, the Sports Complex and Retreat Center includes:

  • A turf sports complex, including two soccer fields, a football field, track, two softball. fields, a challenge course, a baseball field and stadium.
  • Schindler Banquet Center, with an occupancy of 875.
  • Browne Retreat Center and four dormitories that sleep 300.
  • The Sports Complex will also be home to the John Wooden Family Fieldhouse, which broke ground last year. The 65,000-square foot multi-use facility is expected to host more than 300,000 athletes annually.

As general manager, Harrell will give vision and leadership to establish the Sports Complex as a destination for premier training.

"Athletes in Action has an incredible opportunity to open doors for the gospel through the platform of sport, and we are eager to be a part of that,” said Harrell, who moved to Xenia with his family earlier this summer. Since 2019, Harrell has served as deputy director of athletics for external operations at Abilene Christian University. He also worked at Murray State University, the University of Delaware and the University of North Florida.

"Our desire was to have someone in this role who has served at a high level of sport and has demonstrated operational excellence, all the while being engaged in ministry in their job and personal life. Steve is that person,” said Mark Householder, president of Athletes in Action.

Media Note: For more information about the Athletes in Action Sports Complex and Retreat Center or to arrange an interview, contact Karen Dye at 404-538-8591.

About Athletes in Action

Athletes in Action, the global sports ministry of Cru, focuses on equipping athletes and coaches to be Christ-centered leaders and influencers on and off the field. Its ultimate goal is to see Christ-followers on every team, in every sport, in every nation. For more information, visit athletesinaction.org.

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