Christian Heritage Academy (CHA) is proud to announce the collegiate signing of senior Joshua Shaw (Class of 2024) with Olivet Nazarene University (ONU), a respected NAIA institution in Kankakee, Illinois. Shaw will pursue a degree in Computer Engineering while contributing his talents to the ONU Men’s Basketball team within the competitive Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference.
Shaw has been a member of the Lions’ basketball program throughout both his middle and upper school years. Coach Jeff Cook, CHA Upper School Athletics Director, commended Shaw’s versatility and leadership on the court, where he excelled as both point guard and team captain. Shaw played a key role in leading the team to the school’s first Lake Shore Athletic League Championship, one of his most memorable experiences with the Lions, and a Conference record of 23-5 over the final two seasons.
“Athletics have been a great way to boost my faith,” Shaw said. “Through the ups and downs I know I’ve got to rely on God because he’s ultimately preparing me for the next step. He’s brought me to where I am and will bring me to where I am in the future so I’m thankful for that.”
One of Shaw’s greatest inspirations and role models is Chase Audige, a former Northwestern athlete who now plays in the NBA G League with the Windy City Bulls. Part of the same church family, Shaw has sought advice and expertise from Audige both in basketball and life. Shaw reports that Audige has given him many tips on how to stay focused and keep God first in everything he does.
Audige affirmed Shaw’s characteristics of being both curious and driven. “These traits will definitely serve him well in the basketball world or in life in general,” Audige said. “The people who ask questions, are hard-working and driven, have willingness to stay disciplined and be humble, and who have a strong foundation of faith and a good support system are usually the ones that make it to the highest level in any field.”
It should come as no surprise that Audige also commends Shaw for exemplifying humility and discipline, as Shaw’s most treasured Bible verse is James 4:10, Humble yourself before the Lord and He will acknowledge you. “Being around Josh and his family, I can clearly see he has an amazing foundation as a leader and as a man of faith,” Audige said.
Shaw believes his experience at CHA—which began in preschool—has been an integral part of his strong foundation. Shaw said that not only have the teachers and academic program prepared him for the next step in college, but that “the friends and the community here have really prepared me for life.”
Additionally, he credits the athletics and coaching staff who have poured into him as an athlete, student, and Christ-follower. “Here it’s one-to-one and they really build a relationship with each one of us,” Shaw said. “I’m very thankful for that.”
In addition to also playing volleyball and soccer at CHA, Shaw has been a drummer for the worship team at CHA and at his church. He looks forward to bringing his musical gifts and love for technology to ONU, as well.
Coach Cook and the CHA community congratulate Joshua and his family and extend our best wishes as he embarks on this exciting new chapter. This signing exemplifies CHA’s commitment to developing well-rounded young men and women prepared to excel at the collegiate level and beyond. We have every confidence that Joshua will thrive not only on the basketball court but also in his academic pursuits and journey with Jesus.