CHARLOTTE — American Ninja Warrior competitor Sean Bryan brought a message of faith, perseverance and a little friendly competition to students at St. Ann School during an Aug. 18 visit.
Before speaking with students, Bryan reflected on the role his Catholic faith has played in his journey from athletics to co-founder of the Lay Mission Institute, an apostolate devoted to inspiring lay Catholics. A former UC Berkeley gymnast, Bryan found success on NBC’s reality show where competitors tackle complex obstacle courses.
He became known as “The Papal Ninja” due to his yellow and white wardrobe emblazoned with the papal crest and his desire to use his platform to convey a deeper message. He encouraged students to recognize that their talents can serve a purpose beyond personal achievement.
“The gift of faith isn’t just about me and Jesus,” Bryan said. “It’s about walking and doing with Him, and you can’t ask for anything better than that.”
During a school-wide question-and-answer session, students eagerly quizzed Bryan about everything from how long he has been an athlete to the challenges he has faced in competition. The conversation also included lighter moments, including a student challenging Bryan to a push-up contest.
Bryan welcomed the questions and interacted with the students enthusiastically, giving them an opportunity to learn about the discipline required to become an elite athlete. He taught that success is not simply about physical strength. It also requires commitment, patience and the willingness to keep moving forward when obstacles arise, he said.
The event offered St. Ann students a glimpse into the world of American Ninja Warrior while imparting a deeper lesson about faith and using one’s gifts with purpose.
—Troy C. Hull
