Last month, our Men's and Women's Soccer Coach Joe Lopez and his wife Danielle had the opportunity to travel to Honduras for a missions trip. The trip was primarily through a veterinarian organization but there was an opportunity for Coach Lopez to come along to reach other people in the village through soccer. 

He was able to do individual skills training sessions as well as run games for around 60 kids over the week. They played wherever they could find the space - a concrete court, in the middle of the street or in the dirt fields. They used whatever they could find laying around to make goals. Thankfully, they always had a soccer ball, as Coach Joe brought several with him along with some soccer balls that were donated to the mission.

At first, his work was strictly soccer but by the end of the first day Coach Lopez realized he was going to be doing much more! He was able to do a gospel presentation each day for the people that brought their animals to the veterinarian group as well as to those who came to participate in the soccer camp. 

"I was asked to give a presentation of the Gospel and that same day, the pastor of a local church invited us to do home visits in the villages. During these visits we would sing and I was able to give a devotional (through our awesome translators!). It was so incredible to see God begin to work in the people in the village." said Coach Lopez. 

"The best part of the trip was for my wife and I to work side by side doing the two things that we love, soccer and veterinary work, to advance the Gospel. Soccer really is the world’s game and it was such a great experience to use that as a tool to do Kingdom work in Honduras! 

What a great example of our #KingChasing mission, using sport to spread the gospel! 

The conclusion of another exhilarating soccer season brings with it a moment of reflection for the women's soccer team. After playing a grueling schedule, the team is eager to assess their performance and identify areas for improvement in the offseason. With valuable lessons learned and a great culture in place, the team is poised to set themselves up for success in the future.

Throughout the season, the women's soccer team faced numerous challenges and overcame many obstacles. Their schedule was nothing short of brutal, testing their resilience, skill, and determination. From facing formidable opponents to enduring a season with few numbers, the team was constantly pushed to their limits. Despite these challenges, the team never lost sight of their goals and fought tirelessly on the field.

One of the greatest strengths of the women's soccer team is the invaluable lessons they have learned throughout the season. Each match provided a unique opportunity for growth and development. Whether it was learning to adapt to different playing styles or adjusting tactics mid-season, the players honed their skills and knowledge with every experience. These lessons will undoubtedly serve as building blocks for future success.

Coach Joe commented, “Our women's soccer team prides itself on the fantastic culture they have cultivated within the group. From the coaching staff to the players, everyone contributes to an inclusive and supportive environment. This strong culture creates a sense of unity and fosters a team-first mindset. It also encourages trust and camaraderie, allowing the players to maximize their potential on and off the field”.

Looking forward, the offseason presents an invaluable opportunity for the women's soccer team to continue their growth and improvement. This period of rest and recuperation will allow the players to recharge both physically and mentally, preparing them for the challenges ahead. Emphasizing the importance of individual development, the team will focus on honing their skills, improving fitness levels, and analyzing game film to identify areas of improvement.

Additionally, the women's soccer team will prioritize team-building activities during the offseason. By participating in bonding exercises, workshops, and team outings, the players will further cultivate a sense of unity and camaraderie. These activities will not only strengthen their relationships but also enhance their communication and cohesion on the field.

As the offseason progresses, the women's soccer team will also engage in targeted recruitment efforts. Identifying areas of the squad that require reinforcement, the coaching staff will seek out talented young players who can contribute to the team's success. By carefully selecting individuals who align with the team's culture and possess the necessary skills, the women's soccer team aims to strengthen their roster and add depth to their squad.

In conclusion, the women's soccer team has much to celebrate and reflect upon at the end of another challenging season. Through a grueling schedule, valuable lessons were learned, and a great culture was established. The offseason presents an opportunity for the team to rest, recharge, and improve, laying the foundation for future success. With a focus on individual development, team-building, and strategic recruitment, the women's soccer team is poised to continue their upward trajectory. As they embark on their offseason journey, the team remains driven and committed to achieving their goals.