Moments before game time, while other players blast heart-pounding beats to prepare, Braden Hay finds his strength in stillness. He sits alone, Bible open, listening to the gentle melodies of his favorite worship artist, Jess Ray.
It’s an unusual pre-game ritual in the world of college football, but it perfectly encapsulates just who Braden Hay is: A force on the field, a dedicated leader in his community, and a man of unwavering faith. 
The recent Houston Christian University graduate and a former linebacker for the Huskies is a shining example of why athletes should not be defined by their athletic ability but rather celebrated for their heart and commitment.
“I want my relationship with God to pour into all areas of my life… I want that to be something that drives my life,” he says.
This motto and the opportunity to play alongside his younger brother and former Husky, Nolan Hay, are what fueled his decision to come to HCU.
Long before enrolling, Nolan introduced Hay to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), a campus organization focused on uniting student-athletes to grow in their faith and live out Christian values through sports, where Hay was instantly drawn in.
“When I came here, I began going to FCA and after my first semester, they asked me to become a leader,” he reflects.
Hay went on to lead in the organization for the entirety of his time at HCU.
On the field, Hay’s presence is commanding. With 86 total tackles, 33 being solo takedowns, his 2024 stats tell the story of a defensive force. But amidst the triumphs, one game stands apart in his memory.
Family ties and football rivalry created an unforgettable moment for the Hay brothers. As the Huskies lined up against the University of Incarnate Word, Hay found himself in an unusual position, staring across the field from his younger brother Nolan, now a UIW Cardinal. The same brother who had first drawn him to HCU was now his opponent.
“I was able to play against him instead of with him, and that was really cool!” he exclaimed.
Having completed his undergraduate journey at HCU with a degree in Sports Management, Hay’s path forward reflects the three pillars that defined his college career.
His sights are set on professional football, with dreams of competing in a Houston Texans jersey, a natural fit for the Katy native who grew up cheering on his home team.
Beyond his professional aspirations, Hay envisions a future where he can impact young athletes and merge his passion for football with his dedication to ministry.
“Why not combine the two in coaching where you can use that as a ministry?” he says.
Whether at the college or high school level, Hay sees coaching as an opportunity to mentor, guide, and share the principles that have shaped his journey.
In a world that often forces people to choose between their passions, Hay has found a way to weave them together. His story isn’t just about tackles, but about the remarkable way faith, family, and football can create a legacy that extends far beyond the field.
