An organisation of atheists has blocked a Christian group from participating in athletic programmes in Kentucky schools, saying the act violated the U.S. Constitution by promoting religion.

The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), which advocates the separation of Church and State, sent a letter to the Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) in Louisville and accused the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) of advancing religion by sending some of its adult members to conduct religious services during athletic practices in district schools.

In some cases, it claimed, the FCA representatives assume the role of "team chaplains."

It asked Superintendent Donna Hargens to stop the activities to "ensure JCPS students' rights of conscience are protected." FFRF said student-run FCA groups should be led and initiated by students.

FFRF said complaints have reached them about FCA representatives showing up at practices at Atherton High School and asking students if they want to leave for "voluntary chapel."

Last April 26, it said, an FCA representative went to the boys' basketball practice and recruited students to volunteer for a Christian event. FCA members also preached at students during practice last May 1.

"The volunteer chaplains and their regular attendance at school-sponsored events such as practices violate federal law," according to FFRF.

The atheist group said, "It is inappropriate and unconstitutional for public schools to offer a Christian minister unique access to befriend and proselytise student athletes."

In response, Hargens told FFRF that they have instituted guidelines.

She said FCA meetings must be separate from team practices and meetings will not be conducted in lieu of any scheduled practice or meeting.

Hargens said JCPS teams do not have team chaplains and should not use such designation. FCA meetings on JCPS property must be student-led although FCA staff may be invited, she said.

"Any student common area (locker room, weight room, dugout, sideline, bench, etc.) that should be available to students shall not be used for an FCA meeting," she said.