Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Dominican Father John Baptist Hoang, the Catholic Campus Ministry chaplain at the University of Louisville, has found a unique way to connect with student-athletes through his love for sports. His ministry typically involves administering sacraments and supporting Catholic Campus Ministry, but it has expanded to include attending football games and other athletic events such as swim practices and lacrosse games.

“I’m a big sports fan, so this is a bonus,” said Father Hoang, who played table tennis at the University of Virginia and participated in tennis and swimming during high school. He expressed excitement about being assigned to the University of Louisville in 2021. Now in his third year at UofL, he is entering his second year on the football field.

His involvement on the sidelines began with an invitation from Phil Hawkins, a member of St. Louis Bertrand Church and father-in-law of Jeff Brohm, head football coach for the University of Louisville. Brohm is known for leading Trinity High School to an undefeated season and state championship in 1988.

Father Hoang has become recognizable among Cards fans due to his distinctive white habit. “I’ve received a lot of encouragement from Catholic fans,” he said, noting that they often shout to him from the stands or post pictures on social media. In one instance, a fan posted a picture with the caption “Is that the pope?” which was humorously answered with “No, he’s a Cardinal.”

He regularly attends home football games alongside Hawkins and enjoys conversing with coaches and their families about faith matters. Before each home game, he blesses the team as they kneel at the end zone.

The UofL fan base has significantly supported his ministry in athletics by fostering connections within the community. “It generates a lot of excitement,” Father Hoang said. Catholics often approach him offering introductions to others they know.

On-field, Father Hoang's presence is about supporting players' wellbeing through prayer and conversation. His ministry also reaches beyond players; security personnel, photographers, and fans have approached him during games to discuss faith-related topics.

As a representative of Catholic faith and priesthood, Father Hoang sees his role as missionary work. “I became a Dominican priest for the salvation of souls and for people to know Christ,” he stated. He emphasized that Catholic Campus Ministry is available to serve students.

Last year, through Father Hoang's influence, a Catholic football player joined university peers at SEEK—a national conference for Catholic college students hosted by FOCUS Catholic—and some players have attended Sunday Masses. Other teams like softball, rowing, track, and soccer are also represented at liturgies.