Season of Thanksgiving: A father, a coach, and a testament of God's faithfulness
In the realm of basketball, countless stories of triumph and resilience unfold. But for Evan Belk, a former player and current head women's basketball coach at Sterling College, the most significant victory is found off the court. It's the journey of his son, Arlo, diagnosed with spina bifida before birth, that has transformed his perspective on life, faith and the power of community.
The diagnosis of spina bifida, a condition where the spine doesn't develop properly, was a shock to Belk and his wife, Dayzah Belk. However, it was also an opportunity for them to draw closer together and lean on their faith.
"Our faith was put into action and put to the test through this," he said. "We had to buckle down and allow ourselves to feel pain, but also know that God had a plan for us."
With the support of their community and the prayers of countless people, Evan and Dayzah embarked on a journey to Houston for fetal surgery, a groundbreaking procedure that would give their son a chance at a better life.
The support they received was overwhelming, with people from all walks of life coming together to offer their assistance.
"It was humbling to see not only how many people were financially willing to help us, but more importantly, just the amount of response that we got," Belk shared. "It just showcased that we have wonderful people in our lives."
The surgery was a success, and Arlo was born at 39 weeks in Kansas City. Despite the initial fears and uncertainties, Arlo's progress has been nothing short of remarkable. He has defied the odds, learning to walk with the help of a walker and eventually taking his first steps on his own. His resilience and determination have inspired everyone around him.
"Not even grass, not even a rock stops him," Belk said, describing a moment when his son navigated through rough terrain with his walker. "He's going to go where he goes. He's never cried. He's never gotten frustrated. He does what he needs to do, just head down and go to work."
This experience has changed Belk's perspective on coaching and life. He now understands the importance of sitting with his players in their struggles, supporting them and meeting them where they are.
"You can't control your narrative. You can't control what happens to you. You can control your response, who you rely on and who you lean on," Belk emphasized.
Through this journey, Belk has also learned the power of prayer and the impact it can have on one's life. He encourages others to never underestimate the power of prayer and to continue building a relationship with the Creator of the Universe.
"Don't underestimate the power of prayer. It's everything," he shared. "Talk to the Creator of the Universe and build that relationship."
For Belk, Sterling College is not just a place to coach basketball. It's a community that has embraced his family's journey and provided unwavering support. It's a place that has changed his life and continues to inspire him every day.
"Sterling College has impacted me in ways that I can't even describe," Belk said. "It's more than just basketball. It's more than just an education. It's life-changing."
As Belk continues to coach at Sterling College, he carries with him the lessons he has learned from his son's journey. He strives to make an impact on his players, just as Arlo has made an impact on him. He knows that success is not measured by wins and losses, but by the lives he touches and the relationships he builds.
In the end, Belk's story is a testament to the power of faith, community and resilience. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and a chance for a better tomorrow.
Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.
