"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training... They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."

1 Corinthians 9:24-25

Meet the Athletics team at School Alive, where physical training is paired with spiritual growth and godly character. Our Athletic Director and coaching staff are passionate about developing student-athletes who pursue excellence on and off the field. Through teamwork, discipline, and integrity, we aim to glorify God in every practice, game, and competition. At School Alive, sports are more than just physical activity—they are a platform to ignite passion, build virtue, and run the race set before us with eternal purpose.

Mr. Brandon Terry Blankenship is a dedicated leader with a passion for athletics, student development, and faith-based mentorship. With over two decades of experience at Evonik (formerly Eli Lilly and Company), he has honed leadership and organizational skills, excelling in process management and team coordination. His expertise in establishing strong relationships and ensuring operational success translates seamlessly into managing athletic programs.

Formerly serving as Interim Athletic Director at Lafayette Christian School, Brandon oversaw scheduling, communication, and game-day operations while hiring and supporting coaches to foster a thriving sports culture. A longtime Jr./Sr. High School Track Coach, Bible study leader, and community volunteer, he has dedicated himself to mentoring young people both on and off the field. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ball State University and a background in adolescent counseling, he brings a well-rounded approach to coaching and student development.

Brandon and his wife, Heather, live in Lafayette, Indiana, with their two daughters and son. As Athletic Director at School Alive, he is committed to building an athletic program that emphasizes character, teamwork, and excellence, ensuring students grow spiritually, mentally, and physically through sports.

Mr. Brian Veach brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and discipline to School Alive as our Wrestling Coach. A former U.S. Marine Corps special forces member, Mr. Veach embodies the values of courage, perseverance, and integrity—qualities he now instills in his athletes. His time in the military sharpened not only his physical skill but also his strategic thinking and ability to lead under pressure, making him an incredible mentor for young wrestlers seeking to grow in both character and skill.

Mr. Veach has an extensive wrestling background and a remarkable coaching history, including leading the Crawfordsville High School wrestling team to an undefeated season. He continues to train and teach wrestlers at The Forge Training Center in Lafayette, where he is known for developing athletes with strong fundamentals, mental toughness, and a heart to compete with purpose. His commitment to wrestling is not just about winning—it’s about building up the whole person.

Academically, Mr. Veach is equally accomplished. He holds a Master of Arts in Theology with a focus on Biblical languages and religious studies from Indiana Wesleyan University and studied Leadership and Ministry at the College of Biblical Studies, formerly Crossroads Bible College. His pastoral heart and deep biblical grounding shine through in his coaching style, as he helps students wrestle not just physically, but spiritually—pointing them to the God who changes lives, just as He did with Jacob. School Alive is honored to have a coach who trains body, soul, and spirit for the glory of God.