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When it comes to world-class athletes, few people realize just how many champions, superstars, and influencers in the sports world are also members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. From NFL legends and Olympic medalists to boundary-pushing coaches and rising young stars, Latter-day Saints have left their mark at every level. Here are forty remarkable figures, ranked from lesser-known heroes to global icons, all united by their faith and athletic achievements.
40. Blair Buswell – Sports Sculptor, Former BYU Football Player
A fixture in the world of sports art, Blair Buswell has crafted the bronze likenesses of NFL greats for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and created statues honoring legends from multiple sports. A former BYU running back, Buswell’s studio in Utah has welcomed everyone from John Madden to Mickey Mantle. His impact is immortalized in stadiums and museums, even if his name is less familiar to fans.
byu.edu
39. Jennifer Rockwood – BYU Women’s Soccer Coach
Jennifer Rockwood has been the face of BYU women’s soccer for more than three decades. She’s the only head coach in the program’s history and led her squad to an NCAA finals appearance in 2021. The BYU Creamery even honored her with a special ice cream flavor, a testament to her legacy in Provo.
byucougars.com
38. Greg Wrubell – BYU Sports Broadcaster
Greg Wrubell, known as the “Voice of the Cougars,” has spent his career calling games for BYU football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. His encyclopedic knowledge of team history and unmatched preparation have made him a beloved figure among Latter-day Saint sports fans.
37. Liz Darger – BYU Athletic Department Leader
A trailblazer in collegiate athletics, Liz Darger serves as BYU’s Senior Associate Athletic Director and has been instrumental in BYU’s move to the Big 12. Her influence extends into church service, including leadership roles in the Young Women’s General Board.
36. President C. Shane Reese – BYU President and Sports Advocate
As president of BYU, C. Shane Reese champions both academic and athletic excellence. He’s also served as a sports analytics consultant for professional teams, bringing statistical expertise and school spirit to every game.
35. Taylor Randall – University of Utah President
President Taylor Randall is a passionate supporter of Utah athletics. His efforts have helped the Utes transition from the PAC-12 to the Big 12, and he continues to celebrate the school’s Latter-day Saint heritage in everything he does.
utah.edu
34. Sam Merrill – NBA Player
A missionary in Nicaragua before he hit the hardwood, Sam Merrill led Utah State to a conference championship and earned Mountain West Player of the Year. Now in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he is known for his clutch three-point shooting.
Credit: NBAE via Getty Images
Copyright: 2023 NBAE
33. Bronco Mendenhall – College Football Coach
Bronco Mendenhall’s coaching career includes successful stints at BYU, Virginia, New Mexico, and Utah State. His teams are known for discipline and improvement, and his leadership continues to shape college football programs across the country.
32. U.S. Rep. Burgess Owens – Former NFL Safety and Congressman
Burgess Owens brings championship experience from his days with the Super Bowl-winning Oakland Raiders to the halls of Congress, where he represents Utah’s 4th District. His life story highlights a journey of faith, resilience, and achievement.
31. Kellen Moore – NFL Coach and Super Bowl Winner
Once a standout at Boise State, Kellen Moore is now among the youngest head coaches in the NFL. He recently won a Super Bowl as offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles before taking over the New Orleans Saints.
30. Olivia Moultrie – Professional Soccer Star
Olivia Moultrie broke onto the professional soccer scene as a teenager with the Portland Thorns, making history as the youngest player in the NWSL. Her talent and influence only continue to grow.
29. MyKayla Skinner – Olympic Gymnastics Medalist
After winning an Olympic silver medal in vault at the Tokyo Games, MyKayla Skinner became a role model for perseverance and grace under pressure. Her journey from NCAA champion to international podium is inspirational.
Copyright: Copyright (c) 2021
28. Fraser Bullock – Olympic Games Organizer
A leader behind the scenes, Fraser Bullock played a key role in the success of the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics and the bid for future Games. He has also served in church leadership as an Area Seventy.
27. Dame Valerie Adams – Four-Time Olympic Medalist, Shot Put
One of the greatest shot putters in history, Dame Valerie Adams from New Zealand collected two golds, a silver, and a bronze over her career, dominating on the world stage for nearly two decades.
26. Anson Dorrance – Legendary Soccer Coach
With 21 NCAA championships, Anson Dorrance is a giant in collegiate soccer. He developed some of the sport’s greatest players and left a permanent mark on the game.
25. Ashley Hatch – National Soccer Star
Ashley Hatch’s scoring prowess made her a standout at BYU and a star in the National Women’s Soccer League, where she’s claimed both Rookie of the Year and Golden Boot honors.
Credit: Ray Acevedo-USA TODAY Sports
Copyright: Ray Acevedo
24. Garett Bolles – NFL Offensive Lineman
From a challenging youth to NFL stardom, Garett Bolles is a model of redemption and determination. Now an anchor for the Denver Broncos, he’s a mentor and leader both on and off the field.
nfl.com
23. Kenneth Rooks – Olympic Steeplechase Medalist
Kenneth Rooks shocked the track world with a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. As a returned missionary, his humility and work ethic inspire a new generation of runners.
22. Ed Eyestone – Olympian and Renowned Coach
A two-time Olympic distance runner and legendary coach at BYU, Ed Eyestone has mentored dozens of All-Americans and national champions. His leadership has shaped BYU’s cross country and track teams for decades.
21. Ryan Smith – Sports Team Owner
Ryan Smith turned Qualtrics into a tech giant before buying the Utah Jazz and other major sports franchises. His vision and enthusiasm have brought a new era to Utah’s professional sports scene.
utahjazz.com
| Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY
20. Gail Miller – Sports Executive and Philanthropist
Gail Miller, matriarch of the Larry H. Miller Company, played a leading role in bringing pro sports to Utah. After selling the Jazz, she continues to influence baseball, soccer, and the business of sports in the region.
19. Taysom Hill – NFL “Swiss Army Knife”
Taysom Hill’s versatility has made him a folk hero in New Orleans. Whether throwing touchdowns, catching passes, or running through defenders, his relentless effort and faith are always on display.
18. Penei Sewell – All-Pro NFL Lineman
Penei Sewell of the Detroit Lions is redefining what it means to be an offensive lineman. Already considered among the best in the league at just 24, his career is only just beginning.
17. Jimmer Fredette – Global Basketball Phenomenon
Jimmer Fredette became a household name during his college years at BYU and has since played basketball professionally across three continents. His name has become synonymous with explosive scoring.
16. Tom Holmoe – BYU Athletic Director, Former NFL Player
Tom Holmoe led BYU’s athletic program through major conference shifts and has three Super Bowl rings from his playing days with the San Francisco 49ers. His vision and faith have shaped countless careers.
15. Kalani Sitake – Head Football Coach, BYU
Kalani Sitake’s journey from BYU linebacker to head football coach is a story of heart and leadership. He has guided the Cougars through transitions and led them to high-profile bowl victories.
14. Danny Ainge – NBA Executive, Former Player
Danny Ainge’s career reads like a sports highlight reel. He was a multi-sport college star, NBA champion, baseball infielder, and is now the CEO of Basketball Operations for the Utah Jazz.
13. Cael Sanderson – Olympic Gold Medalist and Wrestling Coach
Cael Sanderson went undefeated in college wrestling, won Olympic gold, and has led Penn State to eleven NCAA titles as coach. He is considered one of the greatest wrestlers and coaches in history.
Copyright: ©2015 Mark Selders/Penn State Athletic Communications
12. Mark Pope – Kentucky Men’s Basketball Coach
A former NCAA champion and NBA player, Mark Pope now leads Kentucky basketball, one of the most storied programs in the sport. His coaching journey began at BYU and Utah Valley.
11. Kevin Young – BYU Men’s Basketball Coach
Kevin Young arrived at BYU with NBA coaching experience and quickly made waves with top recruits. He’s now guiding the Cougars in the fiercely competitive Big 12.
10. Bryce Harper – Major League Baseball MVP
Bryce Harper was once dubbed baseball’s LeBron James, and he has lived up to the hype with two MVP awards and multiple All-Star selections. His faith is central to his life and career.
mlb.com
9. Kyle Whittingham – Utah Utes Head Football Coach
Kyle Whittingham has built the University of Utah football program into a national contender, with conference championships and major bowl appearances, earning the respect of peers and fans alike.
8. Fred Warner – NFL All-Pro Linebacker
Fred Warner is one of the NFL’s elite defenders, earning multiple All-Pro honors with the San Francisco 49ers. His leadership and humility stand out in the fast-paced world of pro football.
7. Eric Weddle – Retired NFL Star, Super Bowl Champion
Eric Weddle’s NFL journey took him from lightly recruited high school player to Pro Bowl safety and Super Bowl champion. His work ethic and intelligence defined his career.
6. Puka Nacua – Rising NFL Star
Puka Nacua burst onto the scene with the Los Angeles Rams, setting rookie records and earning All-Pro honors. His unique style and energy have made him a fan favorite in record time.
5. Tony Finau – PGA Tour Winner
Tony Finau’s journey from modest beginnings to PGA Tour victories is nothing short of inspirational. He has represented the United States in the Ryder Cup and has earned a loyal following through talent and humility.
4. Andy Reid – Legendary NFL Coach
Andy Reid is among the most successful coaches in NFL history, with multiple Super Bowl wins and a reputation for mentoring future stars. He’s as famous for his playbook as he is for his humor off the field.
3. Dale Murphy – Baseball Icon
Dale Murphy’s two National League MVP awards and almost four hundred home runs make him one of baseball’s all-time greats. After his playing career, he served as a mission president and continues to advocate for the sport.
2. Bryce Harper – Major League Baseball Superstar
Bryce Harper makes a second appearance on this list, this time in recognition of his outsized impact on baseball and popular culture. His talent, intensity, and faith have helped shape the game for a new generation.
1. Steve Young – Hall of Fame Quarterback
Topping our list is Steve Young, whose path from BYU to NFL stardom is the stuff of legend. A two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl MVP, and member of both the College and Pro Football Hall of Fame, Young’s legacy extends far beyond the field. He’s a successful author, broadcaster, and philanthropist, and remains an outspoken voice for his faith and alma mater.
espn.com | churchofjesuschrist.org
Who Did We Miss?
With so many outstanding Latter-day Saint athletes making waves around the globe, it’s impossible to capture them all in one list. Other notable names include distance runners Courtney Wayment and Conner Mantz, NFL standouts Kyle Van Noy and Britain Covey, and world champion Jeremy Guthrie. Each has a story worth celebrating.
Let the conversation continue—who would you add to the list?
Want to learn more about these athletes and the values that drive them? Visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or follow the latest in sports at ESPN and MLB.
Share your favorites or join the discussion below.
