Auburn University baseball’s associate director of communications responded to the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s (FFRF) demand to cease usage of religious symbols and coach-led prayers.
The team has practice pullovers with “Jesus Won” and a cross in them. Team chaplain Mason Maners offers Bible studies and prayer.
“Auburn University is aware of the constitutional rights of all Auburn students, employees, and community members, as well as the constitutional rights of the University,” George Nunnelley stated. “Auburn will continue its demonstrated commitment to fostering an environment where all members of our community are welcome, valued, respected and engaged.”
Maners has credited God for saving his life after he broke his neck while playing football at Vestavia Hills High School. He went on to become a star baseball player at Auburn.
His story has inspired athletes beyond Auburn University.
“Mason does an unbelievable job,” sophomore pitcher Christian Chatterton said on Sports Spectrum’s “What’s Up” podcast. “It’s kind of crazy because three years ago, he was playing for Auburn, and he was also really good here. He’s done a great job. He’s somebody that we can all go to talk about faith and other stuff.
“I think this team is also special in the way that a lot of our guys on our team are just all-in for Jesus. I think a lot of that credit has to go to Mason, for sure."
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