In the heart of Texas, Dallas Baptist University (DBU) is not just a small Christian college; it’s a powerhouse in college baseball. As the summer sun sets and the school year begins, Coach Dan Heefner gathers his team, a collection of young men who are not just athletes but aspiring leaders grounded in faith. With a history of success that includes 13 playoff appearances in the last 17 seasons, the DBU Patriots are on a quest for greatness, but not just on the field.
“Who are you?” Heefner asks his players, a question that goes beyond their identity as baseball players. He emphasizes the importance of understanding their true identity in Christ. “If you see yourself only as a baseball player, you’re carrying a heavy burden,” he explains. “Success in sports can be fleeting, but your identity in Christ is eternal.”
This philosophy is rooted in scripture. Heefner often quotes 1 Corinthians 15, reminding players of the resurrection and the hope it brings. He encourages them to reflect on their purpose: “What are we trying to do here? What is the most important thing?” The answers from the players—“Be present” and “Be a man built for others”—reflect the culture Heefner has cultivated, one that prioritizes humility and service.
DBU’s baseball program is a unique blend of competitive spirit and Christian values. With around 2,400 students, the university might be small, but its impact in the world of college baseball is significant. The Patriots boast a .667 winning percentage, competing with larger schools like Louisiana State University and Texas A&M, which have enrollments of over 30,000 and 60,000, respectively. This success is a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence and faith.
Heefner’s approach to coaching extends beyond just winning games; it’s about discipleship. “A big verse for us is Psalm 115:1, ‘Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name be the glory,’” he shares. This perspective shapes the team’s ethos, encouraging players to strive for greatness while remaining humble and focused on glorifying God. “We’re here to reflect His attributes,” Heefner asserts, emphasizing that excellence in sports is a way to honor God.
The camaraderie among players is palpable. Living together in townhouse dorms and participating in The Oaks, a spiritually focused group, they forge deep friendships that last beyond their college years. Senior Tom Poole, who moved from Calgary, Canada, to join the team, highlights the importance of this community. “The baseball game is cool, but being with everyone else is way cooler,” he says, underscoring the relational aspect of their experience.
Humility is a cornerstone of the program. Heefner once questioned whether humility could coexist with competitiveness in baseball. However, he realized that biblical humility is about being “others-focused.” “If we create an environment where you can reach your full potential while also being a great teammate, it’s an unbelievable place to show up to every day,” he explains.
As the college sports landscape evolves, with athletes now able to capitalize on their name, image, and likeness (NIL), DBU continues to attract top talent not just because of its baseball reputation but because of its commitment to faith and community. Heefner emphasizes that while he will help players improve their skills, he will also guide them in understanding their identity in Christ.
Former players like Matt Duce, who played at DBU from 2015 to 2018, attest to the profound impact of Heefner’s coaching philosophy. “When I got here at 18, I saw a coach that had pretty much memorized the Gospel of Matthew. It just clicked,” Duce recalls. The relationships built during their time at DBU extend into their lives beyond baseball, with Duce having eight DBU teammates as groomsmen at his wedding.
As the new season approaches, the DBU Patriots are ready to take the field, not just to compete but to embody the principles of faith, humility, and teamwork that define their program. With their first game scheduled against North Dakota State on February 14, fans can expect not only thrilling baseball but also a display of the values that make DBU a unique and inspiring place for young athletes.
In a world where success is often measured by stats and accolades, DBU stands out by prioritizing character and faith, proving that true greatness comes from serving others and glorifying God. As Coach Heefner reminds his players, “Honor, glorify, and please God, and trust Him with the results.” This message resonates not just in the dugout but throughout the lives of those who wear the Patriots uniform, making them champions in every sense of the word.