Encouraging, motivational, passionate, and shepherding—these are just a few words that describe Asif Shaikh and the heart he brings to ministry. With an evangelistic spirit and a deep desire to disciple and pastor people of all ages, Asif began his ministry journey serving with CRU and Athletes in Action for 15 years. During that time, he poured into the lives of college students at the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, and St. Petersburg College, building relationships that continue to bear fruit today.

Following this season, Asif and his wife, Leaha, answered God’s call to spend a year on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., serving as Church Planters in Residence at National Community Church under the leadership of Mark Batterson (New York Times Bestselling Author of Circle Maker, Chase the Lion, Win the Day).

Asif’s ministry has had a global impact. He has led college students and NFL players on mission trips to Jamaica, Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala. He currently serves as an Olympic chaplain, ministering to athletes on some of the world’s biggest stages. His chaplaincy work has included leading Bible studies and chapels at:

• Summer Olympics: London, Rio, Paris

• Winter Olympics: Sochi, South Korea

• Pan American Games: Mexico, Canada

• World Track & Field Championships: South Korea, Qatar, Eugene, Budapest, Tokyo

• World Indoor Track & Field Championships: Belgrade, Glasgow

• World Bobsledding Championships: Lake Placid

• World 3x3 Basketball Championships: Amsterdam

• FIFA World Cup: U.S. men’s national team, South Africa

New doors continue to open, including ministry opportunities at Kennesaw State University, Georgia Tech Track and Field, and with Team USA Soccer, whose new facility is just outside Atlanta.

In addition, God has expanded Asif’s reach into unique areas of sports ministry, including serving the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) by leading weekly chapels via Zoom. He also disciples professional athletes and chaplains across various sports on a weekly basis.

Asif and Leaha have been married for 25 years and currently live in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia. Leaha is the founder of La Profe LLC (www.laprofe.net), where she tutors both Spanish and English speakers. They have two daughters—one a recent graduate of the University of Florida, and the other currently attending Vanderbilt University.

To see what the Tampa Bay community is saying about Asif, check out the news article linked below.

https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/sports/2024/08/14/seminole-pastor-serves-team-usa-in-paris-olympics