Lance Berkman
2026 Red McCombs Community Impact Award Winner

Throughout his storybook baseball career, Lance Berkman emphasized the importance of his faith in maintaining perspective and humility. The College Baseball Hall of Fame performer at Rice University and six-time Major League All-Star is being honored as the 2026 Red McCombs Community Impact Award winner at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Breakfast of Champions to be held at 7 a.m., February 5 at Community Bible Church. 

A hitting legend at both New Braunfels Canyon High School and Rice, Berkman was taken with the 16^th overall pick by Houston in the 1997 draft and earned five of his six career All-Star game appearances with the Astros. He was a key figure in Houston’s first World Series championship in 2005 and was the National League Comeback Player of the Year in St. Louis’ run to the 2011 World Series title. His 266 career homers are the third most by a switch hitter in major league history.

Since retiring from professional baseball in 2013, Berkman has dedicated his life to his family and influencing young players as a coach at Houston Second Baptist High School, the University of St. Thomas, Houston Christian University and now Rice. Throughout his playing and coaching careers, Berkman has been involved in various faith-based initiatives and has spoken about how his Christian values influence his approach to life and sports. 

Each year San Antonio Fellowship of Christian Athletes presents the Red McCombs Community Impact Award to recognize an individual or individuals who demonstrate unparalleled success, and the highest level of moral character and integrity. This award is given by the FCA and the McCombs family to a person who uses his or her influence to impact the community and spread the word of Jesus Christ.