Laura Wilkinson, a gold medalist in women's platform diving in 2000, is a Christian athlete who possesses determination and an enthusiastic personality. For the 2008 Summer Olympics, at age 30, Laura will be competing against much younger divers with one of the most difficult dives in the world. She is a deeply committed Christians who says her relationship with God is her highest priority.
Sport: Diving
Date of Birth: November 17, 1977
Hometown: The Woodlands, Texas
Church Affiliation: Baptist
More: Laura's Personal Website
Interview with Christian Athlete Laura Wilkinson
Briefly explain how and when you became a Christian:
I accepted Jesus as my Savior when I was 8 years old. In high school and the beginning of college I wandered away from God, but I recommitted my life to Christ in 1998 in the middle of a diving competition.
Do you attend church?
My husband and I go to Champion Forest Baptist Church. We attend every Sunday and my husband teaches a young married couples Sunday school class. We also have a small group Bible study that meets 2-3 times a month.
Do you read the Bible regularly?
I like to study the Bible and dig deep, but consistency is where I struggle the most. I often have trouble getting in my daily reading. It's great when my husband and I can read together because it keeps me accountable and we can have great discussions about God together.
Do you have a life verse from the Bible?
There are quite a few, but my favorite is Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." It's just awesome to know that when you trust God to be your strength, you can face anything the world throws at you.
How does your faith influence you as an athletic competitor?
I feel like I can face any situation. Sometimes I come out victorious, sometimes I am defeated. But I know that God has plans for my life and I trust Him. My value and his plans for me do not lie in my score at the end of the meet. He uses both wonderful and difficult moments to mold me into the person he wants me to be.
Do you ever face difficult challenges because of your stand for Christ?
I have had some interviews cut short and some insults here and there. But my husband and family are strong Christians and have a great support group.
Do you have a favorite Christian author?
I like Ted Dekker and Randy Alcorn. I love fiction and adventure stories, and they are terrific!
Do you have a favorite Christian music artist?
Jeremy Camp is one of my favorites, but my bias lies with Natalie Grant and Ayiesha Woods! I was very blessed to be a speaker on the Revolve Tour with Natalie Grant for the last 3 years and with Ayiesha this past fall. They are absolutely amazing singers, but they are more amazing friends and Christians!
Who would you name as a personal hero of the faith?
My husband. I had the honor of being present when my husband gave his life to Christ, and I have had the privilege to see his passion for God and to watch him grow quickly in his faith, and he is now teaching others.
What is the most important life-lesson you have learned?
I have learned to thank God even in the midst of difficulties. I know he will use the situation to grow me, and while I can't usually see how he'll do it in those dark moments, I trust him and I know I will see it later on.
Is there any other message you would like to say to readers?
There is nothing more important than our relationship with God. It's not about showing up to church on Sunday, it's about seeking him every day. Relationships are built by communication and over time.
