FORT COLLINS, Colo. - For a week in May, SVSU women's basketball student-athlete Grace Whelan took a break from her regular workout routine and attended the Ultimate Training Camp with Athletes in Action in Fort Collins, Colorado.  These seven days put her spiritual strength to the test and in turn has created a stronger athlete in all aspects!

The Ultimate Training Camp is a high intensity sports camp for college & pro athletes, tackling the issue of how to blend faith and sport together on the field of competition.  At the Ultimate Training Camp participants receive Biblical perspective on topics like motivation, attitude, persevering through tough times, and winning & losing. The camp provides a leadership framework that will change the way athletes look at life and competition.

"I am so glad that I was able to share this opportunity with other athletes who are really striving to love and live for God.  That was very refreshing to see! I've never been able to connect with peers so quickly," said Whelan, who will be a sophomore this upcoming season for the Lady Cardinals.

Many of Whelan's friends and family donated money to help her attend this camp and she hopes to pay it forward by encouraging many others to attend the Ultimate Training Camp and by being an active leader in Athletes In Action on the campus of Saginaw Valley State University.  She said, "I cannot thank them enough for providing me the chance to attend this camp! It truly changed my life and the way I view basketball.  I hope to influence students at SVSU with what Christ has taught me.  Last year I was a little shy about starting something up on campus for athletes, but I am more motivated than ever to do it this year!"

Click here for more information on the Ultimate Training Camp