Shevon Nieto
Shevon Nieto is a Jamaican track star. She joked that she was never interested in being on the bobsled team but with her impressive record, there’s no need to think about anything other than hurdles. She was a two-time Olympian in the 400m hurdles and is also a singer and writer.
Enjoy her story below of how she and her husband Jamie have stayed faithful to God through extremely difficult circumstances.
•When did you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
I grew up in a household that all went to church. I was baprtized when I was younger so I’ve always been religious. Even being baptized and being brought up in a Christian household, I’d say I officially accepted Him when I was in college. I felt like I was making my own decisions and felt that my life was in my own hands. I had a feeling in college that there was something in my heart that I needed to do. I decided to reconnect myself and I got baptized.
•What do you think should be the main goal of a Christian athlete during their pursuit of Olympic excellence?
Give all the glory to God. Use your talents the best you can to make Him happy and glorified.
•What are your spiritual daily routines and how have those changed since you were young athletes?
We read the Bible every night. We try to walk, live and talk like Christ. On a daily basis, we stay constantly in prayer.
•Shevon, you were a two-time Olympian for Jamaica. Tell us what motivated you to become one of your country’s best hurdlers.
As a high schooler, I looked at my talent and I knew I had a gift. I wanted to get to the highest level and the highest level was the Olympics. It was an honor to make that team. With everything God has given, I try to be the best at whatever He has blessed me with.
•Where did you see God impact you the most during your career?
With being an athlete it takes so much mental focus and physical strength. It calls you to go into a deep place. I get my strength from God inside. I trust in the strength that He gives me.
•You both have amazing stories and continue to keep God first both individually and collectively. Now that you’re married, where did you learn this discipline?
We first have to thank God for putting us together. We pray together, we support one another and we show each other true love. We find how God wants us to treat one another in the Bible. Everything we need to know and learn is in the Bible. It's a guideline for love. I see it in my mom and family.
•Shevon, what do you believe God was telling you during Jamie’s rehab as you stayed by his side throughout the time leading to the wedding?
I knew that he was going to be OK. I knew to be strong and encourage him. This was actually during the time I was getting ready for my third Olympic games but I decided to not go so I could be with Jamie. I was in the best shape I’ve ever been in but knowing the decision I had to make, God was telling me to stay and be there there for him. I already had everything I wanted. The feeling of being on the podium wouldn't be as good as being by
Jamie’s side.
•Your wedding day has been shared with millions. How have you seen God work through that publicity?
The attention the wedding recieved was very touching. People from all over the world supported Jamie. A lot of people thought it was impossible but to share his walk with the world to inspire the world was definitely motivational. He has the support of millions. It was great to see how many people may believe (in Christ) because of him.
•What is one piece of advice you would give to yourself as a young Christian athlete?
Do everything the best you can and God will do the rest.
•Last but not least, what does Play4Him mean to you?
Exactly what it says, always give God the glory and play for Him.
Both Shevon and Jamie have an inspiring faith. The way they have persevered through Olympic and life trials is truly inspirational. Also, Jamie is currently working on a book that is in the editing process. It should be coming out sometime in 2018. As for an update on Jamie’s recovery, he is walking on crutches and he can walk without assistance for small steps! Praise God!
If you’d like to read more about them both, visit their websites at Shevonsworld.com and jamienieto.com.
