The NAIA’s newly launched “The Right Way to Play” campaign is being praised by leaders within the association, particularly in the highly competitive Crossroads League, as a pivotal moment to underscore the values-driven nature of their athletic programs.

Crossroads League Commissioner Larry DeSimpelare believes the initiative will amplify the league’s long-standing commitment to holistic student- athlete development and ethical competition, directly benefiting its member institutions like Goshen College. “I love that the NAIA has adopted this slogan, and the Crossroads League has always been a beaming example of this mantra,” DeSimpelare said. “The way our student-athletes and coaches compete in such a competitive league is represented by this campaign. What the NAIA is adopting is how the Crossroads League has been doing since our inception.”

This alignment, he suggests, will further solidify the league’s reputation as a standard-bearer for integrity in collegiate athletics. A key benefit for the Crossroads League, according to DeSimpelare, will be the NAIA’s reinforced commitment to regulations and support systems that prioritize the well-being and overall experience of student-athletes.

“The NAIA has made bold stances on practice and playing alignments, number of contests, practice limitations, student- athlete experience and health and safety for all competitors,” he noted.

He emphasized that these directly support the league’s core mission, adding, “We will continue to be a beacon for the NAIA as a whole as we embody what it means when we say ‘The Right Way to Play.’”

For GC, a valued member of the Crossroads League, “The Right Way to Play” campaign offers a significant opportunity to further articulate its deeply ingrained athletic philosophy.

Interim Athletic Director Chad Coleman sees the campaign not as a mandate for change, but as an affirmation of the college’s existing values.

“This new campaign feels less like a shift and more like a validation of who we’ve always been,” Coleman explained. “Our athletic programs have long emphasized academic integrity, character development, and community involvement.”

Coleman anticipates that the campaign’s emphasis on character-driven competition and holistic development will directly benefit Goshen’s student-athletes by reinforcing the importance of their growth beyond the playing field.

He pointed to the college’s track record, stating, “We’ve had more athletes in student leadership roles on campus than ever before, and I’ve been at GC for 23 years … Teams are getting out in the community together and making a difference … We are seeing high numbers in the team GPA department, and the amount of athletes on the Dean’s list is not an anomaly, but a regular thing now.”

He believes the NAIA’s amplified message will further legitimize and support these efforts at Goshen.

Moreover, Coleman suggested the campaign provides a distinct contrast to the evolving landscape of NCAA Division I athletics, potentially attracting student- athletes who prioritize a balanced collegiate experience over purely financial incentives.

“To me, ‘The Right Way to Play’ is throwing some shade towards the NCAA … The NAIA … has now transcended to the gold standard for values- driven, student-centered athletic competition,” Coleman stated.

Looking ahead, DeSimpelare envisions the Crossroads League continuing to lead by example in embodying the principles of “The Right Way to Play” campaign.

He believes the league’s existing culture, where competitive spirit is often paired with displays of sportsmanship and faith, perfectly aligns with the NAIA’s renewed focus.

“The Crossroads League is special because of our members,” DeSimpelare said. “Our members are made up of the best leaders, coaches and athletes in the NAIA … incredibly thankful for leading the way when it comes to ‘The Right Way to Play.’”

Coleman echoed this sentiment for GC expressing his vision for the athletic program to continue serving as a model for integrating sport into a broader, purpose- driven college experience.

He believes “The Right Way to Play” message will resonate with prospective students seeking an environment where their personal growth and character development are as valued as their athletic achievements, ultimately strengthening both the athletic program and the NAIA as a whole.

“From my vantage point, in terms of recruitment, if you’re looking for a place where who you become matters as much ashow you perform, then Goshen College is the right fit for you,” Coleman said.