Meet Chris
May 20, 2026// By Sarah Hardin
From “Life is About Me” to a Life of Service
Chris Lundquist’s Story
Chris Lundquist will be the first to tell you—his faith story didn’t come in one dramatic, lightning-bolt moment. Instead, it unfolded slowly, through relationships, responsibility, and a God who never stopped pursuing him. Raised in a Christian home, Chris grew up in church, surrounded by strong influences and meaningful experiences. But like many of us, belief didn’t immediately translate into a lived-out faith. “I always believed in God,” Chris shares, “but I wasn’t living the life Jesus wanted for me.” College and early adulthood were marked by independence, partying, and a focus on self. Even after getting married, that mindset lingered. But everything began to shift with the birth of his son.
The Moment That Changed Everything
Chris doesn’t point to a single “aha” moment—but if there was one, it came when he became a father.
“What kind of dad do I want to be?”
That question changed the trajectory of his life.
Looking at the example of his own father, Chris realized he wanted to lead with presence, purpose, and faith. That desire led him and his wife to find a church—where a mentor would help shape the next chapter of his journey.
Through intentional discipleship, opportunities to serve, and a growing relationship with Christ, Chris began aligning his life with his faith.
“It was like God said, ‘You’ve made the decision to walk with me—now let’s go.’”
Coaching More Than a Sport
Chris’s passion for track and field became one of the primary ways he lived out that calling. Starting a brand-new track program at Emmanuel Christian Academy, he built more than a team—he built a culture. From a group of “misfits” in year one to conference champions by year two, the success was undeniable. But for Chris, the wins weren’t just on the scoreboard. “We run to glorify the Lord.” His athletes learn to compete with excellence while reflecting Christ in how they treat teammates, competitors, and themselves. It’s not uncommon to see his team praying with competitors from other schools before a race.
When God Says “Not That—This”
Chris felt called to grow professionally and pursued school administration, earning his master’s degree and licensure. But door after door seemed to close—especially when he tried to transition into public schools. It was frustrating. Confusing. Disappointing. Until something unexpected popped up: a job listing for Clubhouse. What followed was a rapid, unmistakable opening of doors.
“I was impatient, wanting to be somewhere else. But God kept saying no—until He took me exactly where I needed to be.”
Creating Space for the Next Generation
As Director of Clubhouse, Chris has brought his background in education to reshape the program—without losing its heart. Clubhouse remains what it has always been: a free, safe, faith-based after-school program for kids. But Chris has helped add intentional structure, mentorship, and leadership development—especially for the high school students who serve there. “This is an intro to Christ program.” Through relationships, guidance, and simple acts of care, kids are introduced to Jesus in a way that’s approachable and meaningful. And the high school mentors? They’re learning just as much as the kids they serve.
“They’re not just helping kids—they’re discovering who they are.”