When Diana Roth, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) area representative for ELANCO, wanted a way to honor the students she works with at Garden Spot, Cocalico, and Lancaster Mennonite high schools and to commemorate the eight years of FCA in ELANCO, she thought about holding a family-oriented event. "It will be a celebration recognizing student-athletes and student leaders," said Roth of the first event she is calling Night of Champions.

Night of Champions will be held at Christian Fellowship Church, 758 Spruce Road, New Holland, on Thursday, March 6, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The special guest speaker for the event will be Chad Ryland, National Football League kicker for the Arizona Cardinals. There is no charge to attend, and dessert and coffee will be served.

Ryland is from Lebanon and attended Cedar Crest High School, participating in soccer and baseball. In his junior year, Ryland's father encouraged him to try out for football. Ryland not only made the team, but also excelled in the sport, being named an all-league and all-county place kicker. Ryland attended the University of Michigan and later transferred to the University of Maryland, where, Roth said, he became involved in FCA. Ryland played for the New England Patriots in 2023 and 2024 before being signed by the Cardinals. Roth first heard Ryland's story at an FCA Huddle at Cocalico High School (CHS). "I really appreciated his testimony," said Roth, who asked Ryland, who has relatives associated with CHS, if he would speak at the event. "He said, 'Absolutely,'" recalled Roth, who added that Ryland will bring an autographed football as a banquet prize and participate in a meet-and-greet. "(Ryland) is a perfect fit (for this event)," stated Roth.

Roth's goal in holding the banquet is to celebrate God's work in ELANCO by recognizing students, coaches, and volunteers with the organization. "(The plan is to honor) specific students from Garden Spot High School, CHS, and Lancaster Mennonite High School," explained Roth, who noted that FCA is a student-initiated and student-led organization. "I work with the students, equipping them with tools and resources," she said, adding that the core values of FCA are "integrity, serving, teamwork, and excellence." "I will be recognizing student leaders who exemplify those, and they will receive rewards," she said. Roth stated that she will also offer scholarships to two graduating seniors at the event.

Roth hopes to see area parents bring their children to the celebration. "I am telling families to please bring your kids, because I am recognizing and honoring (students)," she said, adding she is inviting families of students who attend the FCA Power Camp held in the area each summer. Although the event is free, those wishing to attend are asked to register by Sunday, March 2, by emailing droth@fca.org or calling 717-669-0740.