Former Grace College men’s basketball coach Jim Kessler, far right, poses with his wife, Susanne, and former Chicago Bears linebacker Mike Singletary at the FCA Night of Hope. (Photo provided)

WINONA LAKE – Recently retired Grace men’s basketball coach Jim Kessler was honored last week with a ceremony by Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

FCA hosted its annual Night of Hope in front of several hundred people at Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne.

Kessler received the Northeast Indiana FCA’s first Coach’s Impact Award. The award is given to a coach who engages in “three-dimensional coaching” to impact the mind, body and spirit.

Also being honored at the Night of Hope was legendary NFL linebacker Mike Singletary, who was the featured speaker and followed Kessler on stage.

Kessler retired at the conclusion of the 2018-19 basketball season after 42 memorable seasons in charge of the Lancers. He ended his NAIA Hall of Fame career with 788 victories, ranking No. 28 all-time for wins among men’s collegiate basketball coaches.