Columbia, SC (WLTX) - One local high school team says they are inspired by how outspoken Tim Tebow is about his religious faith.
While Tim Tebow is not the first and certainly will not be the last person to express faith on the playing field, some say the popularity of religion in sports has grown to new heights thanks to the Bronco quarterback. One local high school team says they are encouraged by Tebow's outward religious faith.
"Go! Go! Go," for basketball coach Ryan Malony, on the court practice makes perfect. "Reset it! Reset it! Reset," screamed Coach Malony.
But the first year coach of Ben Lippen's varsity squad says his players also take that same belief when it comes to religion in sports.
"We don't get to pick where we glorify God. Athletics just plays a part in that," said Malony.
With the success of athletes like Tim Tebow who are vocal about their faith, Malony believes it helps to inspire his players like Fraser Hahn and Branson Despres.
"You hear it all the time about professional athletes that I'm making millions but I'm still not satisfied. Religion makes sports more satisfying because you are working for a higher purpose," said senior Fraser Hahn.
"It gives more purpose to the game. It give you something to strive for. I'm not playing to glorify myself but to glorify the Lord," said Branson Despres.
Despres says his favorite bible verse before every game, Hebrew's 13-6. It says "I will not be afraid, what can mere mortals to do me?" Coach Malony believe faith can help keep a team focused.
"You know the reason Tim Tebow has made such a big splash is because we have so many other guys leading the wrong way. So when you have a guy that comes along that's leading the right way, and is a follower of Christ and not ashamed of it, that really stands out."
While coach Malony doesn't believe religion can effect an outcome of a game, he says the players he's sees practice their religion on and off the court become great people.
"Sometimes character can come out in a sporting event unlike anywhere else and if you can show it there it can really effect people," said Malony.