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KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 6, 2016 /Christian Newswire/ -- Fellowship of Christian Athletes' (FCA, www.fca.org) National Board of Trustees has named Shane Williamson as the sports ministry's eighth president/CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2017.

After a far-reaching, prayerful search, the Board selected Williamson, currently the FCA Executive Director of Field Ministry who has been involved with FCA for 24 years. FCA's current president/CEO, Les Steckel, will retire at year-end after 12 years of outstanding service and whole-hearted dedication.

"FCA conducted a comprehensive, national search for our new president, and the candidates we interviewed were tremendous leaders in their fields," said Board Chairman Bruce Graham. "When it came down to it, we were thrilled to discover that the Lord led us to someone from our own FCA family—someone who understands the heart and soul of FCA. Shane will succeed Les Steckel, one of the most passionate leaders in FCA history, and Les and our entire board whole-heartedly agree that Shane will carry out FCA's strong vision to impact coaches and athletes for Christ and continue to take the ministry to new heights."

Williamson has served in his current post since 2014 and was also the Vice President of Field Ministry for the Carolinas (2011-2014), Multi-Area Director for Metro Atlanta (2005-2011) and the Area Director for Upstate South Carolina (2002-2005). Before Williamson's employment with FCA, he was involved as a sponsor while working as a teacher and coach from 1992-2002 in four South Carolina high schools.

"I am honored and excited to serve alongside such wonderfully committed teammates, coaches, athletes, supporters and volunteers in leading the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as president," said Williamson. "FCA is a ministry uniquely positioned, through the influence of coaches and athletes, to impact our world by promoting in sport the life-changing message of Christ. As a husband, father, coach and athlete, God has used FCA to grow and change my life, marriage and family in so many positive ways. I can only hope to lead in such a way that continues to give all who serve and support this ministry greater opportunities to invest in coaches, athletes and all whom they influence in the same way."

A native of Loris, S.C., Williamson graduated from Wofford College, where he played football and served as an FCA Huddle leader. He also earned a master's degree from Converse College. Williamson and his wife, Angel, have three daughters and one son.