In 2022, the then-senior University of Tennessee quarterback revealed in an interview that his pregame prayers focus on family, health, and gratitude.

A viral video on social media showed Hooker on one knee bowed in prayer moments before kickoff. A reporter asked him about the prayer. Hooker said the prayer focuses on his family’s travels and the safety of his brother, Alston, a freshman quarterback for North Carolina A&T.

Hooker said, “It’s the same prayer every time. I’m a routine type of guy. Just praying over my family, thanking God for a safe travel. I pray for my brother as he had his game. [I’m] praying for his game and their safety. Then just praying that God touches my mind, my hands, my feet, to just go out there and do what He’s blessed me to do, to put on a show.”

Hooker, a transfer from Virginia Tech who is in his second season as a Volunteer starter, has been outspoken about his Christian faith. Last year he and Alston released a book, “The ABCs of Scripture for Athletes,” that included their favorite memory verses. It was designed for children and published as a comic book.

In September, he told media members that he listens to gospel music before each game from such artists as Kiki Sheard, Kirk Franklin, and Fred Hammond. He and teammate Joe Milton, the backup quarterback, also read a devotional together.

After running through the T, Hendon Hooker (@henhook2) says a prayer. The quarterback explains what that prayer is. #Vols pic.twitter.com/QtR4lL323a

— Reece Van Haaften (@Reece_VH) October 31, 2022

“[I] just listen to my gospel playlist, meditate,” Hooker said. “Me and Joe, we have a devotional book that we read every day, so before the game, we’ll read one or two pages. That’s pretty much the pregame ritual.”

His Twitter and Instagram bios read, “Giving Him all the glory.” Earlier this year, he spoke about his faith at First Baptist Church in Morristown, Tenn. A 6-foot-4 quarterback, Hooker owns the program records for consecutive games with a touchdown pass (20) and consecutive passes without an interception (261). He has 2,338 passing yards this year with 21 touchdown passes and one interception.

In a world where people typically hide their faith, especially young people, it’s refreshing to see a young person standing in their faith and proudly worshipping God. Perhaps Hendon Hooker is so successful because he worships God in public. Whatever the reason, let’s pray that Hendon Hooker continues to be successful.