"REC"REATN

Murals Speak

2012-02-15T11:34:00.004-05:00

Over the last two months, local artist Becky Ward-Morgan has been painting a mural for the Rec Center that will be on display in the game room area. What's great about this mural is that it reflects and tells the story of Cool Spring Recreation. From children's sports leagues, track, outdoors, special needs, and game room activities; the mural is designed to allow your eyes to flow in a circular motion as you observe the obvious to the less obvious.

As the mural was being designed and use of the circular motion concept was introduced, it reminded me of the circular motion involved in using sports and rec as a means to connect with people and people to Christ. The bigger picture of what we do involves people entering sports / rec opportunities (leagues, crafts, outdoors, exercise classes, etc) for a specific purpose and the need to belong to a group. People will then flow in a circular motion (like a pinwheel) and experience various groups and leagues while encountering relationships with others who genuinely invest in them over a period of time. As they do, the movement allows them to discover faith stories of others and even discover for themselves real faith. It's then they link to a worship experience or a bible study for further growth.

As you come by and view the mural (we have a few adjustments left in the process) take your time to follow the motion and discover all the artistic elements involved. And as you do, be reminded of the process and time investment involved when relating with people in the recreation ministry. It's a process that begins with experiencing others within a movement and walking alongside of them by the means of leisure and faith.

Thanks to Becky, and her assistant Caroline Egan (one of our students at CS) for their artistic gifts and work on the mural. It's all about sharing a story. Feel free to drop by and view the mural located in the Rec Center game room.

Round Table Thoughts

2012-02-08T12:31:00.004-05:00

This past weekend we had the opportunity to discuss Faith, Sports, and Real Life as part of the pre- superbowl experience with Cool Spring Church. While we a have a variety of ministries through Cool Spring, recreation is one of them in which the community connects with. And through that connection (leagues, fitness, facilities) it is our desire that people experience worship through their recreational activities.

Frank Rocco, head coach at Liberty Christian Academy (86-6 record) and his son, Michael Rocco, quarterback for UVA, were part of our discussions. Hosting a round table discussion with Michael was a great way to present a relaxed environment and dialogue about some details of life that each of us face. As I asked questions regarding faith, sports, and real life and listened to Michael's responses, I came away with several thoughts:

Influencing others is impacting - Parents play a key role in establishing foundations for children while friends can challenge and encourage us to become the person God has created us to be
Competition is good - God has created us to work with excellence - 1 Cor 10:31
Success is measured in improvements - moving from one point to the next
Self Identity has to be established from God's perspective - people will praise you and criticize you, choosing to put both aside and focusing on God's view of you creates a healthy self identity

Following the discussion, Frank shared about living in the passion of who God created us to be. We have been given talents - those gifts to us from God that in turn we use to bless others for His purpose - and when we live on those we can become contagious for greater purposes than ourselves.

What an impact weekend of worship and recreation. We have many opportunities to share faith, sports, and real life with those around us!

Local Artwork

2012-01-26T14:21:00.004-05:00

Periodically I will arrive to my office to find local artwork from kids who have been using the Rec Center. Normally it's a nice stack of cards made out of construction paper with a variety of hand drawn work and phrases to match. From smiley faces to stick figures and sports themes, these cards are really an expression of their appreciation for the time they are provided to play in the gym area. While most children don't realize that securing them a time slot is a simple process, it's a good feeling to be appreciated none the less. So enjoy one of the many pieces of artwork I received this past week.

Faith, Sports, and Real Life

2012-01-23T11:27:00.006-05:00

The teams are set and the commercials await! It's time for the Super Bowl! Over the next two weeks there will be media frenzy and special stories spotlighting athletes, teams, and coaches. Fans will be overloaded with sports talk shows breaking down the science of the game and match ups to be assumed. Each person will have their opinion as if they were coaching either the Giants or the Patriots. And some will even be walking around with Brady or Manning jerseys as if they were actually them hoping someone would call out their name or ask for an autograph. It's kind of crazy how our culture embraces the passion of a football game and the hours we spend analyzing both the game and the people involved.

On February 5th, Cool Spring will kick its Super Bowl Frenzy off with special guests Michael Rocco, quarterback of The University of Virginia, and his dad Frank Rocco, head football coach of Liberty Christian Academy. Together, both will be sharing in the discussion of how faith, sports, and real life intersect. With all the hype athletes get and the demands placed on them, from elementary school expectations to the professional level, athletes and their families are faced with daily decisions. And how they respond amongst the expectations is often how they are defined or judged. So, how do we live our faith in the passions of a sports culture and real life.

Join us Sunday, February 5th at 8:30, 10, or 11:15 as we kick off the Super Bowl and move to a better understanding of intersecting faith, sports, and real life.

New Year Outlook

2011-12-28T11:45:00.002-05:00

Following a Recreation Conference last year, I have been receiving some weekly emails from Don Nova. Don is fitness instructor in LA who has done some work with a friend of mine at his church in Indianapolis. While I am not a big fan of receiving a bunch of email plans, etc. I have enjoyed the simplicity of Don's weekly encouragement from a fitness and spiritual view. So, as you start the 2012, here's his thought starting email for the week.


	2012 Goal and Task Sheet * What two goals in each of the following areas do you want to accomplish in 2012? * Identify what tasks you need to do to achieve these goals. * Write these tasks into your weekly calendar and then just follow the calendar. * Formula for accomplishing goals: Goal > Task > Calendar = VICTORY Spiritual Goals: example: develop intimacy with Jesus. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Spiritual Task: example: daily devotions at 6:00am for 45 minutes. Marriage Goals: example: improve relationship with spouse. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Marriage Task: example: weekly date night. Family Goals: example: better communication with children. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Family Task: example: set a bi-monthly date with each child, to do what they want to do. Physical Goals: example: lose 2 pant/dress sizes. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Physical Task: example: power for 40 minutes everyday at 7:00am. Ministry Goals: example: volunteer to help at church. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Ministry Task example: work as an usher twice a month. Professional Goals: example: build a stronger relationship with co-workers. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Professional Task: example: take a co-worker to lunch once a week. Nutritional Goals: example: drink only water. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Nutritional Task: Example: drink 2 liters of water a day. Emotional Goals: example: eliminate past hurts. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Emotional Task: example: forgive someone that has wounded you in the past. Financial Goals: example: get out of debt. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Financial Task: example: create a budget and stick to it. Mental Goals: example: think healthy thoughts. 1) ________________ 2) ________________ Mental Task: example: replace every negative thought with a bible verse.
Habakkuk 2:2 Write the vision and make it plain on tablets. You Are A Champion Coach Don Nava You can follow me on Twitter: @CoachNava

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Transformational Coaching

2011-12-15T16:00:00.003-05:00

This post is longer than normal, but since I have been building this in my mind and missing a few weeks, I hope you will read the post below and meditate on some thoughts.

Another sport season is upon on us...basketball. And that means more opportunities for kids to participate in sport and learn Christ like values. It also means we need a network of coaches to invest in their lives.

Over the last few months we have seen the word "coach" described in unfavorable ways. From the pressures of money and obtaining high profile athletes to the darker issues of abuse. No matter what the issue is, I think it's true to say we need coaches, people who are investors, that understand their role and the trust placed upon them.

This message is not new. In fact, if you have been around our recreation ministry, you know Rolando Lamb has been involved with our basketball development with the purpose of teaching character and character coaches. And recently I have been reading Joe Ehrmann's book regarding "inside out coaching." Both of these men are calling for men and women, boys and girls, to participate with the intentions of doing so from a transformed way of life. Which leads me to this thought; we have been called by God for a greater purpose.

The sad stories we continue to be exposed to regarding coaches is not new. It 's been around since the fall of man in the garden. It's the struggle of letting go of self and trusting God for our direction and life's purpose. Much like parenting, I have learned that in order to be a good coach, I have to be willing to address the issues / sin struggles in my own life in order to invest in others. And this is not always easy.

We, Cool Spring recreation, have been looking at the concept of Character / Transformational Coaching in comparison to Transactional Coaching. Defined by Erhmann, transactional coaches are those who seek self first (winning, records, contracts), team second, and player third. A transformational coach always seeks the player's interest first, team second, and then his own identity last.

Sports is in need of redemption and sports can provide redemption in peoples lives. The answer begins with each of us recognizing our selfish nature and dying to it. We do that by accepting God's gift of salvation through Jesus Christ (John 3:16). We then begin to live from God's perspective and purpose for our own lives. The Bible says we are new creations, the old has gone and new has come to us. Therefore, we are able to void the selfish ambitions and live to serve others and Christ. It really is reflective of the Christmas story! (I bet some of you never thought about sports and Christmas and the impact this season can have on our sports culture).

In a culture that serves sports as much as it does a local church, look for ways in your life to be transformational. Invest not for your benefit, but for the benefit of others and the growth of men and women to understand their true character that can be found in and through the love of Christ.

In Between Two Boys

2011-11-03T20:31:00.002-04:00

This week was rather funny for me. As many of you know, I have a son (Tyler) who is a second year student at George Mason University and a son (Brendan) who is a student at Oak Knoll Middle School.

Tyler was home last weekend for a visit and was preparing to go back to school for a week that involved teaching observations in the local schools of Fairfax. As he was packing, he was also hitting my closet for dress shirts and pants. He has a few inches (OK, more than a few) on me in height, but the shoulders and neck size hold about the same. By the time he left, three of my shirts were gone and were ready for him to wear the next two weeks.

On the other side of the coin is Brendan's shoes (a 12 year kid who wears a 9.5). As I headed to the office and was planning to exercise, I realized that I forgot my shoes. However, Brendan had me bring his to the gym so he could play basketball after school. Just as Tyler used my shirts, I found myself slipping on Brendan's shoes to do my exercises (Of course, he would have died if he saw me in them).

All this to say that it's a strange, but thankful, feeling to be in the middle of both my boys.

Best thoughts happen........where?

2011-10-24T14:47:00.003-04:00

.............in the locker room / restroom of the recreation center! Go ahead and admit it, you know you do your best thinking in the shower etc. Well, the same was true this morning at the Rec Center.

This morning I was talking with one of our consistent guests of the Rec Center. We passed by one another in the locker room area and greeted each other. My friend had been out for the past month and was now back working out. After little talk, he asked me a question....."What is the meaning and significance of baptism?" (how ironic that we were only a few feet away from the showers if a quick dunking was needed). But back to the conversation. In an effort for him to help guide one of his friends, he was wanting to understand baptism and it's meaning. So, for the next twenty minutes we engaged in a great discussion of the picture that baptism represents for the follower of Christ in obedience to symbolize the believer's faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior, the believer's death to sin, the burial of the old life, and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus. It's a testimony to our faith.

The other side of this story is that Monday is my day to refresh after a week and weekend of recreation sports leagues and ministry. With the fall and winter leagues on us, I decided a day in the office was in order for this Monday....and that's where and when it happened. Just like the scriptures show us, interruptions or times where our expectations are low, prove valuable for sharing and investing in others.

Who would have thought a routine trip to the locker room would have provided so much reflection and investment.

A Trip with Ministry Reminders

2011-10-11T22:05:00.003-04:00

Today was a great day of travel. Kelly and I left the Richmond area by car and headed to Canton Ohio for a meeting with other members involved with Church Sports and Recreation Ministers Association. It was an eight hour drive that provided great views and insights. While we could have taken a plane (and it still would have been eight hours), we chose the car ride together. Here are a few positives of the trip that you could not get from the air:

* Fall Foliage everywhere and in every state we went through (VA, MD, WV, PA, and Ohio). It was great to put on my thinking music (Bach style) and weave in and out of the mountains with the bright colors all around. It was a time of silent reflection and detailed conversation.

* The opportunity to see the heart of our country - the small mountain towns, large family farms being worked by fathers and sons, iron built cities, and working rivers. It's amazing to see the creativity of God and how a variety of different people living in one nation use it (or abuse it).

* Tim Horton's !! - great coffee and a variety of donuts and "timbits."

* Seeing the Pro Football Hall Of Fame and the stadium in which the Hall of Fame Game is played in.

We arrived at our final destination tonight on the grounds of a 1923 Ohio classic golf course (Brookside) for dinner and the kick off of our meetings over the next few days. As we gathered around, through conversations and stories being told, I was reminded of these truths about ministry (particularly my life in sports and recreation ministry):

1. We are called to ministry. At one point in my life, I sensed God calling me for a specific purpose and we need not forget that moment in our spiritual timeline.

2. We are challenged in ministry. Yes, serving Christ and others will always provided challenging circumstances and people. But it's those times that we can look back on and see growth.

3. We have been and will be influenced by others in ministry. There are several people in my life that have left lasting impressions throughout various stages. Allowing people to invest in you will stay with you for a lifetime.

4. We need to be encouragers in ministry. Be someone who desires to offer others with the opportunities you have been provided. It's part of discipling and equipping others for the work of the ministry.

What a trip! And I am thankful for the eyes (physically and spiritually) to have seen it.

Agent of Change

2011-10-06T12:44:00.002-04:00

Recently Sports Illustrated had an article by Alexander Wolff entitled, Sports Saves The World. This was a year long study of his travels through various countries who are suffering from HIV epidemics, gun/gang wars, and societal/governmental issues. His findings revealed the obvious to me: when you provide a specific program that introduces life principles and accountability, you then see change. Sports is a tool that can be used as a change agent across the globe and I applaud those within the article who are using soccer, basketball, and rugby to foster healthy lifestyles and alternatives to the hard ships and temptations they face each day.

One of the reasons I applaud this effort is that I believe in this investment. I had the opportunity to use sports as a tool for change in a third world country for several years. While I spent time teaching and developing the game of basketball for boys and girls, table tennis for females suppressed by government, and athletic administration for local schools, I saw the hunger they had for an outside activity that allowed for with-drawls from their daily struggles. Through these recreation activities we were able to not only teach sport, but to teach sport from a biblical world view. From sportsmanship to character, from selfish gain to teamwork. Yes it is essential that we play the games being offered and provide release from circumstantial issues, but we also have to provide the greater element of change - the life changing message of Jesus Christ.

Sports is a "tool" that has been given to us to use for a greater purpose. It is through sports that we can teach the virtues of Christ and attributes of His love that will enable a life change. Physical needs and circumstances will always allow for spiritual needs to be discovered and approached. That's the heart of recreational and sports ministry. It allows involvement in a global challenge while offering God's provision from a global perspective.

Be a part of change. Find ways that you can interact through your passions (let me know if it's recreation and sports) and assist in the development of physical needs while showing the love Christ when faced with spiritual needs.

Now Playing.....Fall Soccer

2011-09-27T16:10:00.004-04:00

I am excited about the events of this past weekend - Upward Fall Soccer started in Hanover. This fall season we will be hosting soccer at Broadus Memorial Church off Pole Green Road. With any new opportunity, you never know what it will be like. But this Saturday, it was awesome. Eighty three players participated, new families have joined the league, new fields have been set, and the soccer was fun to watch.

As our Upward Sports ministry continues to grow and develop, it's in our long term plans to give away that which God has provided for us. Over the past ten years we have had the opportunity to see basketball, flag football, soccer, cheer-leading, and challenger basketball develop and work among local church partners for space, volunteers, and building relationships with the people of Hanover County. And this fall is no exception. Broadus has a great team of volunteers who are committed to see recreation, soccer, be used as a resource for investing in the lives of people in our community. As you head out on Pole Green Road towards Rte 360, stop by and see what "new and exciting things" God is doing through recreation.

Coaching with the Intent to Develop Character

2011-09-21T15:09:00.003-04:00

Had the opportunity to host a conference call yesterday with CSRM (Church Sports and Recreation Ministers Association, www.csrm.org). Part of our desire as an organization is to connect with others, both nationally and internationally, who are using sports as an avenue for sharing Christ's love with others. This year we are focusing on providing connecting moments through monthly meetings in area locations, to phone / web conferencing, and summits.

The topic for yesterday was Coaching with the Intent of Developing Character. Lately, I have felt overwhelmed with the negative press regarding universities, coaches, and players decisions and character issues. While issues are at the top level, be aware that on the local level they are happening as well. The "professional experience" is now making its way into our middle schools and recreation leagues. From contacts with college coaches to sneaker and uniform endorsements; are students are being hit with making character decisions everyday. The question we have to ask ourselves is this: What are we doing to help develop Godly Character?

Rolando Lamb, America's Character Coach, joined us on the conference and shared with us some insights regarding character. Romans 5:3 is a great passage of scripture that references the building of character and we also see a great example in 1 Kings 15:5 with reference to David doing right in the Lord's eyes. Character comes down to the choices you make and the actions you take. Character is values in action.

While working with recreation leagues and families who participate with you, here are some points to consider :

Be above reproach / Be an example -Coaches, next to parents, have the opportunity to have the greatest impact on the young people they are working with. Model for them character that counts.
Be intentional about developing character - You have to have a plan in place. Know what your end goal is and stay focused. You will need to provide a combination of explanation, demonstration, motivation, application, and repetition as you seek to teach character.
Believe and invest in the kids you are working with - Kids have to much potential for us to let them fail in society. Get across to them that you genuinely care.
Group players together with others on the team to help challenge them and create an atmosphere that draws the best out of them. Proverbs 20:5 makes reference to drawing out the potential of people.

As you work with your leagues, train coaches, and invest in local recreation programs; be intentional about providing Godly instruction and character.

Sunday Best

2011-09-16T16:31:00.003-04:00

I love the potential influence I have with the kids participating in our sports leagues. There are a lot of great kids just waiting for the outside influence on their lives and I try to impart just a few of my passions on them. So, here's my last piece of influence....

The photo you see is a picture of me and the Hoppe (HOP-E) boys this past Sunday morning prior to worship. Each one was wearing their new 2011-12 NFL favorite team jersey. Gotta love it! Obviously they are passionate about their teams (they had the jersey on) and passionate about being at Cool Spring (they showed up for church).

While there is, has always been, and will continue to be a debate of "proper attire" to church on Sundays, I couldn't help but smile when they walked in. For I had seen the wrestle of a parent who loved the jerseys and loved the passions of their kids to wear them to church; but also had a heart of being respectful for others around them during worship. And I understand both aspects. However, as a Rec Minister (the guy on staff who plays everyday) I gently spoke with the voice of freedom regarding the celebration of church and the first day of the NFL season. Well, I guess it rubbed off. The boys beamed with smiles from their experience in Sunday School that morning and the freedom to express their excitement for the family's afternoon activity (in reality, the percentage was pretty high that day of adults who wish they could wear the same outfits).

While I really have no scripture to tag to this story and make it spiritual, I can sit back and see that and exciting day of worship at church combined with the passion of recreation activity brings out the kid in all of us. So go ahead, put your throw backs on from days past and join us at Cool Spring Church while we look forward to an exciting life with Christ together.

Darkness Was Upon Us

2011-08-31T20:28:00.004-04:00

Ok, so I think I have about exhausted the weather sayings and this one will conclude them. But I needed to mention something about the darkness that we have experienced.

Many of us, and still others, are experiencing darkness without power due to Hurricane Irene. The kind of darkness that you cannot see your hand in front of your face. Without the local neighborhood lights, the sky glitters with all the stars and it's just dark in some places of Hanover county. Same is true for darkness that occurs in the South Pole for several months of the year. While it's ok early on, it then gets discouraging and depressing for those living in it daily. Darkness can bring about disorientation and isolation.

Recently I have been going through the book of Mark with the assistance of Timothy Keller's book King's Cross. Mark gives us a picture of darkness that occurs at the point of Christ's death (Mark 15:33-34). The Bible speaks volumes about light and darkness (Isaiah 13, Amos 8). Often darkness will occur in our lives when we place our trust and dependency on ourselves and the world around us. When we begin to orbit around everything else - career, relationships, family, money - as the source of our hope, the result will be spiritual darkness. In the Bible we see the picture of the sun as compared to God. The sun is the source of visual truth because we see by it and it is also our source of biological life because without it nothing could live. God is the source of all truth and life.

As you seek direction and guidance in this world, orbit your life around the love that Christ has for you. Avoid the traps of disorientation and isolationism. The darkness of our lives was dealt with on the cross and the curtain was torn. It was a profound event in the history of our world. So profound that the Roman Centurion was the first to recognize and publicly proclaim that this "man" was the Messiah and the divine one. May we come to trust and proclaim the same.

And the Wind Blew....

2011-08-30T21:04:00.002-04:00

This has been an interesting week for those of us on the east coast and particularly in the Richmond, VA area. We have had an earthquake and now Irene, the hurricane that knocked out power for 2 million people in Va.

Having grown up near the beach, I can remember several hurricanes that rolled into the coast and we would ride them out proudly. No way was my father leaving his domain and therefore the rest of us were staying put also. And that mentality has been instilled in me. But this week I learned something: either I am getting older and realizing the potential disaster I never saw my dad worry about or Irene was more than we could handle. I think it's a combination of both.

Through it all this week, I am thankful for:

safety and protection
power being back on, but also thankful for power being off and putting away the "electronic-al" burdens of our culture.
the beautiful weather that follows the storm (same for us in our spiritual lives)

This week was a reminder of God's mighty power and creation that no man can control. And even in the midst of the storms and quakes, He loves us deeply and has a plan for each of us. Check out Romans 8:35-39 and reflect on that truth. Brad Hoffmann, our new Pastor at Cool Spring did a great job expounding on this Sunday as we gathered with no electricity.

The Ground Shook

2011-08-23T15:47:00.003-04:00

Just experienced my first earthquake - 5.8 on the scale right here in central Virginia. It was an awkward forty seconds of concern. Growing up on the coast I was used to hurricanes and decisions that come with them. Being trained in emergency preparedness, I think I am ready for a tornado. But an earthquake...really?

The Rec Center held its ground and all using the facility remained safe!

The only thing that I didn't hear during this event were the trumpets blowing..............

Excited

2011-08-22T11:41:00.003-04:00

Back from a week that was half "stay-cation" and half "va-cation." But none the less, it was time where I didn't have to make daily decisions, process leagues, and oversee facility issues. There were times within the week that I did day-dream about what potential opportunities are ahead for us at Cool Spring, particularly through recreation, and the arrival of Brad Hoffman as my new partner in ministry and Pastor of Cool Spring Church.

I am excited to be part of a team. The great thing about sports is there is always a new beginning for each season. And I am excited about the new season of Cool Spring. I am excited about the passions that my colleagues have for learning and moving forward with ministry dreams. I am excited about the families who are attending and becoming part of our Cool Spring family. I am excited about the leadership skills and passion for people that Brad Hoffman brings to Cool Spring. I am excited about developing a new missions partner for recreation and expanding our sports leagues to other areas. I am excited about the recreation team meeting to seek God's vision and working that out together over the next six to eight months. I am excited about the new classes through Jazzercise for senior adults. I am excited about the new fall Upward Soccer league with the purpose of targeting a new community with another church. I am excited.

Like any start of the season; players, coaches, and fans typically are excited about the potential. And while I have named just a few things I am excited about in recreation and Cool Spring, I have no idea how all will turn out. But I do know this, God has a direction and heart for his people. He often brings about possibilities for us that we can either sit on or give it a go. As a follower of Christ, I have decided to give it a go. Go out there and test the waters of the new exciting possibilities. Asking God to show me where and how He is working so that we can continue to be a part of something exciting - following Him and being a part of His working in our community and world.

The unknown can be exciting from God's perspective. What are you excited about?

4 Pillars of Accomplishment

2011-08-02T15:15:00.003-04:00

Both Spiritual Fitness and Lifestyle Fitness take discipline. Getting off the couch, taking walks, lifting weights, spending time in prayer, and exercising our spiritual minds by reading the scriptures just doesn't happen. We have to put theme into practice in order to see growth.

Don Nova, Spiritual Fitness Coach and Instructor, has trained many athletes and high level fitness guru's. Not only does he spend time with them to develop their bodies for competition, but he also spends time with them to develop their minds for spiritual battles. He list these four pillars to accomplishments:

Desire - there's a burning passion
Information - understanding proper instruction and teaching
Repetition - consistency creates habit and produces results
Accountability - support

Jesus knew the importance of each of these pillars. Prior to any ministry to others, he cared for himself in all areas. He had a desire to please the Father, he understood his purpose and communicated his message, he got up early daily, and followed the will of the Father.

Mark 1:35 Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, Jesus went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.

Typically the way in which we start our day, is the way in which we end it. Adjusting our priorities and charting the course for the day early will determine some of the decisions we make throughout the day. For example; when I make a good decision for a healthy breakfast, I am more likely to make a good decision for the next meal. When I spend time praying or reading, I am more likely to be reminded of the passages throughout the day and be more sensitive to God's leading in my life.

As you reflect on your spiritual fitness and your lifestyle fitness, start with God's desire and ask Him to create in your life desire, information, repetition, and accountability.

Essence of Coaching

2011-07-25T14:01:00.004-04:00

Recently I spoke with our Flag Football and Cheer coaches about this year's theme of valuing relationships. Below is an outline of our conversations and points I shared and reviewed using the tool Think Orange (whatis orange.org)

This season we want to challenge you and encourage you to Value Relationships:

League Directors
Other Coaches / Ref’s
Assistant Coaches
Players
Players Family

Valuing Relationships in a biblical model we find in the life of Christ.

Scripture says, “Love the Lord your God………,”

Love your neighbor as yourself

“Loving People Trumps Everything” - Caz McCaslin, 2011, founder of Upward Sports

As you Value these relationships, and particularly your players, I want to put out some keys:

1. Imagine the End

Love the Lord our God, the Lord is One.

Moses establishes a framework for everything in this statement - GOD

It is it the centrality of Israel’s faith as a nation

As you coach, do it from the perspective that everything is connected to God.

it’s a core piece of Upward Sports
from the way you speak to the kids, greet the families, interact with others on the field, teach life virtues, teach football skills and football disciplines…It’s All About God -
Moses draws this point out to us after using this passage over and over….Moses is saying, “it really doesn’t matter what our kids know if they really don’t know what really matters.” You can make them the best athlete or team on the field this season, but if we fail short to teach them the “connectivity of God” and how He has created them, then we have failed to teach them what really matters.
As a coach, remind yourself frequently that God is God, it doesn’t cause you stress more (over kids tempers, playing abilities, etc) ; it cause you to trust more (trust that God has given you the opportunity to invest and value relationships)
Ask yourself this question - if you can imagine the end, then “Who do I really Want them to Become.”

2. Fight for the Heart

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength

Moses is fighting for something that is more important than lifestyle, life practices, (athletic gains). He is fighting for the heart.

Caz MaCaslin, founder of Upward Sports, has said it this way, “we are competing for souls of every child.” There are l lot of other leagues in our community, but one of the ways we are unique is a desire to see changed lives through recreation.

As a coach, and as a parent, one of the most powerful things you can do is to learn to communicate in a style that values relationships!

It’s not about a set of rules for your team. It’s about knowing each team member and understanding the best way to communicate your reasons for why it is you’re asking them to grow in his or her faith and his or her skill that you have demonstrated.

Coaching is not creating robots for response. Yes, I wish all my players just did as I told. But, it doesn’t work that way. Coaching is about you learning how to communicate effectively to get the best response out of each player.

You fight for the heart of your player best when you are building a relationship that is trustworthy!

God will always fight for the hearts of people He loves. That’s why Moses says give him your heart and soul, because you can trust Him forever.

3. Make it Personal

These commandments that I give to you today are to be upon your hearts

Love is connected to the principle of legacy.

Think back to the coach you most remember….Why? (did he/she express love, care, etc) That coach has a legacy.

As a coach - Moses is saying to the Israelites, before you can ask “who my children are becoming, I have to examine who am I becoming?”

Problem we face sometimes as coaches and parents is that we don’t know exactly what it is we want our kids to “catch.”

Think to yourself now, what is it that you want to transfer to your team from a spiritual perspective?

Often it’s vague - we know it has to do with the Bible and God, but beyond that it gets fuzzy

Coaches have influence on the players and the families they are working with. You will either have negative or positive influence.

What you do will impact the people you are investing in:

How you pursue God in your own life
How you love
How you treat players, other coaches, ref’s, parents
How you respond to authority and guidelines
How you communicate values and perspectives of life

4. Create a Rhythm

Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates

You may be thinking that Moses was a great coach - because this is what you want your kids to do with your big fat playbooks I’m sure…..

You hear it all the time, particularly in basketball or pitching in baseball, “we got to get in the rhythm.”

We can be distracted from a lot of things in our lives - (Parable of the Sower talks about the thorns and rough grounds)

Media, materials, hyper kids, nagging parents, etc

Rhythm requires 2 components - intentionality and constancy

The time you will be spending with your team and families needs to be intentional and constant.

Make an effort to make an impression or communicate what is core and important. Second, this effort needs to happen repeatedly and establish a pattern of communication with them. (greet them, ask questions of interest, emails each week, etc.

5. Widen the Circle

Hear O Israel…..

Moses is going back to remind us that he was speaking to all of Israel.

Yes, it’s written for guidelines to parents, but it for all the family.

Think this way when you arrive each night for practice and game-day -

Some form of a family unit is present

80% of families in the US are struggling with being single parents, not interested in God, and need an influential man or women in the life of their child. The family unit is not as neatly defined as we sometimes think.

The culture that you will encounter this season will not only be parents listening, but it will be “crowds of relatives” - siblings, cousins, grandparents, etc.

You, the coach, are a LEADER - recognize the importance of supporting the family.

Coaches need to be intentional about being spiritual leaders and mentors of those playing on their teams.

Country Style Donuts

2011-07-23T14:43:00.004-04:00

Today Kelly and I found one of Richmond's establishments near the airport. After being here for three years, we traveled over to Williamsburg Road to check out Country Style Donuts. It was a blast from our childhood with the old baby blue swivel counter chairs and the fragrance of warm fresh donuts (38 varieties). Simple descriptions labeled each donut shelf and thick porcelain coffee mugs laid across the counter. As if the morning donut is not good enough, they are open twenty- four hours. Finally, after all the local stories, I too have a story to share about Country Style Donuts. Check them out for yourself.

Character Camp

2011-07-21T18:19:00.004-04:00

This past week we welcomed 70 campers back to Rolando Lamb's Character Camp. This camp focuses on the A Game - Attitude, Academics, and Athletics. Coach Lamb uses his basketball skills and passion for God to instill in every child the heart of a champion. Each day Coach Lamb teaches character through specific scriptures as reflected through the life of Christ and players are required to learn passages of their choice each day.Throughout the week campers are reminded, "While there is much talent in the world of sport and talent can get you to the top, it's character that keeps you there." Campers also spend the four days doing conditioning drills and basketball skill drills.

"A Game" Daily Disciplines provided for each player are:
* I will read my Bible everyday
* I will have a positive attitude
* I will obey my parents
* I will make good grades
* I will practice to be the best

"Champions do daily, what losers do occasionally"

Reflections of Investment

2011-07-13T21:29:00.003-04:00

Tonight I had the privilege of heading downtown to Ben Wallace's Gym for the Richmond Pro Am league to watch some basketball. From local college players to NBA players. Good basketball and a lot of fun.

What was best about the night was the number of people that we (Steve Rowe, Alvin Allen, Brendan English) knew from using the Cool Spring Rec Center. From relationships with those in our adult basketball leagues, people who play during open gym hours, and players who we partner with for personal training time. My intentions were to go and enjoy watching some local talent of one or two players we knew. But what we saw was a reflection of individuals that the openness of the Rec Center has invested in. We saw the people who come to play basketball and who have gained our trust and allowed us to invest in them spiritually and physically. Tonight was a time in which we met them in their neighborhood and comfort zone.

Investing in people goes both ways. It's not just serving folks in your comfort zone or personal space. It involves going to the places where they hang out, attend events, and meet their friends.

I am thankful for the work of the Rec Ministry and open basketball for the community. And I am thankful for the smiles on the faces of those who are glad to see us in their communities and gatherings.

Portion Distortion

2011-07-12T16:08:00.004-04:00

Summer time food is great! Pole Green Market is a local Hanover market located minutes from my house and I love to go there and see the colors of the food, smell the summer fruits, and enjoy the fact that the produce and food is grown locally.

Food is an essential part of our daily lives. It provides nurishment , energy, and even prevents and fights off disease. But the amount of food we have become accustomed to is creating high stats of obesity nationwide. Sizing of plates, expectations of "amount" per cost, and the quick and easy food process is hindering us from being the healthy people God created us to be.

Marty Rowe of Body Mechanix and member of Cool Spring recently spoke about food portion and nutrition on local TV WTVR. Check out her interview at:

http://www.wtvr.com/videobeta/f83217ad-95eb-4ab9-873d-bf33e7c400a3/Community/Losing-Weight

Rest

2011-06-01T16:30:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day weekend was great for me. I had Saturday off from any games / leagues and was able to enjoy the company of my wife and family for Brendan's 12th birthday. Sunday was spent at Nationals Park with some great Rec Volunteers. Monday was more time with Kelly, home projects, and Orioles baseball. And finally, Tuesday was date time with Kelly during lunch at the water park at Kings Dominion. It ended up being a four day weekend for me that allowed for rest and recovery.

Recently Kelly and I have been reading Tim Keller's book Kings Cross. It is a great compliment to studying the book Mark. Keller does a great job of picking out certain passages and providing scriptural insight that leads to deeper meditation and contemplation throughout the day. The most recent chapter was reference to Mark 2: 23-28. Keller speaks on the topic of rest and the Sabbath. Jesus uses the term "I AM" throughout the scripture and demonstrates that it is through him that we truly find rest. Jesus gives us two thoughts:

1. Jesus calls for me and you to take time off - physical and mental time away - on a regular basis. Stepping out and away from daily activity will provide for fun and vitality in your life.

2. Rest is also a time that you and I can be satisfied with our work, so satisfied, that we can leave it alone. Looking back at Genesis and the creation story we see this example lived out. It was after He created that He stepped away and was satisfied. Unfortunately with the technology world, we seem to always be connected mentally to our work through email, phones, twitter etc.

Learning the discipline of rest and the use of the Sabbath - restoring the diminished, replenishing the drained, and repairing the broken- is something we all need to learn to enjoy. And underlying both of these points is the fact that it "is" Jesus who provides the rest for our bodies and mind, as well as the satisfaction of our work. Through Him, we no longer need to look toward the work of self-justification. The cross is the point at which true rest and satisfaction can begin in our lives.

Interns....they're back !

2011-05-20T15:38:00.004-04:00

You know summer is here when the camp schedules get full and your interns arrive! This summer we welcome to the Rec Center Logan Spiers (Liberty University) and Luke Raikes (Old Dominion University). Please be sure to welcome them as you see them in the Rec Center and out on the fields.

Summer interns are key. Gone are the days that interns just do the dirty work that others don't want to do (OK, they will do some of that). But today's intern is looking for validity and someone to help them explore their gifts and skills over a short period of time. They are looking for the opportunity to be trusted, the opportunity to be creative, and the opportunity to learn through both failure and success.

I guess with that in mind, aren't we all interns? We are people living on this earth for a short period of time searching for opportunities to explore our gifts and talents with someone who we can trust and feel comfortable with whether we fail or succeed. Back in the day we referred to interns as disciples. They were people like you and me studying under the feet of a Savior and learning how to share the good news which He delivered in word and deed.

As an intern myself at one time, I remember the excitement of an opportunity. And I also remember the freedom of knowing I wasn't in it for long. I would suggest today that we live in that same mindset. The mindset that we are going to live in excitement of sharing the good news of the Christ life (in word and deed) knowing that we only have a short period in which to serve.

Nothing like a good Quote

2011-05-17T08:06:00.002-04:00

There is nothing a quick one or two line quote that throws your mind into deep meditation and realization of the deep struggles you face in your daily life. Here is one that I recently came across:

"The one secret of life and development, is not to devise a plan...but to do every moment's duty aright...and let come - not what will, for there is no such thing - but what the eternal Thought wills for each of us, has intended in each of us from the first"

George MacDonald, author

The Princess and the Goblin

Relish the Game

2011-05-05T14:54:00.005-04:00

Today we officially kicked off PICKLEBALL in the Rec Center and we "relish" the game!

Pickleball is sweeping the nation. Just check out http://usapa.org and see how explosive this game is. Pickleball is a simple game played using paddles, a special perforated, slow-moving ball over a tennis-type net on a badmitton-sized court. The ball is put into play and the volley game begins.

Pickleball is offered on Monday nights from 6-9 PM and Thursday mornings from 9-noon for those fifty and over. The game offers great fellowship and exercise movements. Come join us and bring a friend.

Group Time

2011-04-29T12:37:00.003-04:00

This morning I had the opportunity to meet with student-athletes involved in the local Fellowship of Christian Athletes. It was a great encouragement to see this group gather on a Friday morning thirty minutes before school in order to fellowship, pray, set times for ministry to other students, and read the scriptures for encouragement and growth.

It's obvious we all need connection, encouragement, and truth in our lives.

For more on Fellowship of Christian Athletes visit www.fca.org.

Lessons From Joe Girardi

2011-04-25T16:54:00.006-04:00

This past weekend, Kelly, Brendan, and myself traveled to Baltimore for a weekend of sports. It included a ballpark tour of Camden Yards, autographs with Adam Jones, watching the Capitals on Pratt Street, dinner at Sabatino's in Little Italy, and seeing the Orioles and Yankees (this night it was more of the Yankees).

While going through the ball park tour we saw Coach Joe Girardi hitting and throwing with his son. The tour itself took 1.5 hours and Coach Joe was out there the entire time frame. But one thing really stood out to me as we finished the tour in the bullpens. Joe and his son, Dante, were in the bullpen and one of the Yankees fans quickly asked Joe for his autograph (nothing unusual I am sure for a Yankee fan). And to my surprise Joe said, "Sorry I can't, I am playing catch with my son right now." Wow. What a statement a father just made to his son. With all the pressures and expectations of coaching the story franchise, Joe Girardi just spoke volumes of setting boundaries between his family and his job. During this 2 hour period Joe was focused on Dante and nothing was going to interrupt that time together. The other side of this picture that jumped out to me was that Dante allowed the instruction of his father. It wasn't just Joe pouring into his son, but it was his son giving back to him. It was a picture of a cultivated relationship that was making each other better - Joe a better father and Dante a better baseball player (he has a sweet batting stance).

As dads and people who have the opportunity to invest in the lives of young people, let us learn from the lesson observed: people matter, relationships are cultivated, and time is important.

Dear God, please allow us to develop the discipline of time with people who matter and whom you have entrusted us with.

Finding Friends

2010-11-19T16:29:00.003-05:00

Tony Morgan's article entitled, Is the Church Responsible to Find People Friends?, brought out some great insights and thoughts about the church and the use of recreation.

Think about your relationships; how did you find them? Did you seek them out as a child? Did you step out to be involved in an interest group? Or, did someone decide for you the group that would best fit you? Throughout the article, Morgan continues to ask a provoking question: What would happen if we put less attention on organizing relationships and more attention on something people will organize around? Bingo! Great thought. It is true that we set up our people (those who follow Christ and those we pray will follow Christ) to be part of specific groups. There are men's groups, women's groups, age groups, etc. Both Morgan and myself recognize the influence and positives that come from these groups, but what if we allowed people to make relationship decisions on "serving" opportunities? This would allow for people to be a part of community with affinity and passion while still engaging in the Great Commission and discipleship.

That's why I appreciate and see recreation ministry as a community of people who gather with specific interests and passions that allows for natural relationships and life changing conversations. Through sports and recreation, those who follow Christ and those who have yet to make that decision, connect with common purposes. As they gather to coach, play games, referee, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors, community is formed and daily life can be shared naturally.

Look around at where you are. Do you participate in sports and recreation, spend time at coffee shops, belong to book clubs, serve on community boards, etc? Take time with those natural relationships to share Christ and enjoy community. You've been wired that way!

Freedom to wear "I Voted" Sticker

2010-11-02T18:17:00.003-04:00

My two favorite things about election day are:

The Freedom to Vote in every election (having lived in a country for several years where people did not vote, I have a great appreciation of fulfilling my duty as a citizen of the USA to vote!)
The "I Voted" Sticker that you receive once you turn the ballot in. There's something American about wearing that little sticker all day long!

Community Time

2010-11-01T13:43:00.003-04:00

Community time was great this week. Kelly and I had the joy of being with several different people in a variety of settings. No matter the people or the setting, the atmosphere of community was great.

We were able to experience a great meal with three other couples of all different ages. Yes the food was good, but the time we spent together learning about each other without a rush was enriching to the soul. We shared stories of our hobbies, families, and struggles. Later in the week we met with two other couples and experienced great food and a walk through the Fan District of Richmond. The time spent at the table and walking the streets, allowed us to share hopes, dreams, and desires. We learned more about each others walk with Christ and our world around us. And last night, we met in the neighborhood court to check out all the costumes and candy grabbers. This group of community consisted of people with diverse religious views, people who actually are at church more than me, and people who were simply passing by.

Inside of us all, we desire community - a place where we connect with others, share ideas, and live life. It's what the early church was all about. And it's what we as followers of Christ should be about. Being a part of a community(ies) allows us to love others right where they are. Some of the community time we will have will be easy. This is the time spent with those we agree with or see eye to eye on certain topics. But some of our time will be spent with those in our community who don't think like us or always act like us. It's this community time that will be difficult for us. Either way, Jesus has called us to have the same love for both community groups when he said, "love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul, and love your neighbor as yourself. "

Community is all around us. And inside of community is the opportunity to share the love of Christ with others.

Let the BOWLing Begin

2010-10-29T13:06:00.002-04:00

Saturday at the Upward Flag Football fields we will be hosting thirteen bowl games. The kids are pumped, the coaches are syked, and the sponsors are here!! The days activities will be filled with sponsorships from community businesses, cheerleaders throwing out footballs, three national anthems being sung, introduction of players, and bouncables for all!

I would like to thank our sponsors:

Advance Lawn Care
beagoodsteward.com
Dorns
Entrust Federal Credit Union
Grand Graphics
Ironworks
KSKA
Moores Electric
NetBank Audit
Performance Physical Therapy
Trendline Capital
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Upward Sports

Thanks for all the players, parents, coaches, and volunteers for another great season of Upward Flag Football!

FYI - Upward Basketball evaluations start tomorrow as well - Cool Spring Rec Center 8-noon.

Calling Out

2010-10-26T19:55:00.002-04:00

Over the last year it has been great to see God working in the lives of those participating in our Outdoor Ministry. Whether it was been through hunts, fishing trips, sportsman's expo, or bible studies. All of the above have allowed for spiritual growth and relationships to develop.

Recently I had the privilege to talk with fellow outdoorsmen Greg Edmonds. In our conversation he shared with me how God has moved in his life. From just being an outdoorsmen to using his gifts and passions for serving in ministry through the outdoors. Greg is following God's call on his life and is responding in obedience to seeking God's direction for Outdoor Ministry. For the next several months and steps in his journey, I am excited to have him on our staff to walk alongside of him in discovering ministry. To hear more from Greg Edmonds, visit his blog http://trophytalk.blogspot.com/.

What this reminded me of was that God is still calling. Calling people to himself for salvation and grace, as well as calling his people to service for the greater purpose of introducing others to a life change through Christ. In each of these areas, we have two options: to answer or not to answer. Typically the process for us will be to not answer. And that decision will ultimately lead to frustration. But when we answer, we are freed and renewed in Christ. We come alive as we accept forgiveness and live in our passions and callings.

God may be calling you. Calling you to love your neighbor, give to those in need, accept his gift of forgiveness, or serve through a specific ministry. Whatever it is, respond. That's always the next step in our spiritual journey.

Thanks

2010-10-22T09:46:00.002-04:00

Philippians 1:3-5 “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

Giving thanks is part of our lives. For many it is given before meals each day, written in expressions of cards, shown through acts of kindness and gifts, and said to many when simply cared for or helped in time of need. Being thankful is an act of spiritual worship. Saying “thanks” recognizes and yields to God’s blessings on our lives for daily breathe, salvation through Christ alone, health, wisdom, and provisions are just a few expressions.

Today, I would like to say “Thanks.!” Thanks to God for providing a group of children and families to walk alongside of during this football/cheer season. God has provided new relationships through football / cheerleading experiences for many. Thanks to the many coaches and volunteers who gave a minimum of two days a week to invest in children and teach sport and God’s plan for their lives. Thanks for the parents who committed their time each week as part of investing in their kids.

One special thanks I give today is to Ernie Leistner, Upward Football Director for the past six seasons. Ernie will complete his time of service next weekend and I invite you to celebrate his service to Upward Sports. Ernie’s service is in response to his life being impacted through Upward Sports and changed because of Christ. As you see Ernie at the directors table, walking the fields, out at practice next week, and cheering on the bowl games next weekend, offer him a word of thanks.

Thanks is a powerful word. It’s the greatest expression to acknowledge God’s goodness towards us and the gifts of others.

Family Weekend

2010-10-15T13:56:00.002-04:00

Headed up to George Mason University for Family Weekend. Kicking it off with a large gathering of families and food and heading to Mason Madness to watch the official first practice of the Men's and Women's basketball teams. Doc Nix will be rockin' it with one of the top voted pep bands in the country according to ESPN. The weekend continues with other events on campus, dinner in DC, and purchasing more than we need from the bookstore!

This will be a good trip to spend with Tyler. He will have time with his grandparents, brother, parents, and his significant other - Rachel. While away, I'm looking forward to new sites, sounds, and worshipping in Tyler's choice of church.

Let the weekend start.............................NOW!

Think....

2010-10-08T15:44:00.002-04:00

On Tuesday and Wednesday nights, through our Outdoor Ministry we have been offering the class entitled, "The ME I Want to Be." This is a book series by John Ortberg (see July blog for notes I posted). This past week we were focusing on Renewing the Mind.

As I was reading through the material and thinking, Matthew 22:37 came to my mind, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind..." I couldn't help but wrestle through this passage. For the most part, we do a good job of understanding the heart issue and the soul issue. But the mind? The word "all" speaks of us fully engaging all three. We are to be fully engaged with the heart, soul, and mind. The heart represents the volitional and emotional side of our faith experience and the soul represents our human life as a whole. The mind is our thinking capacity. It's the place we wrestle, question, ponder, explore, and stretch as we seek to follow the life of Christ.

In his recent book, Think, John Piper says, "Loving God with all our mind means wholly engaging our thinking to do all it can to awaken and express the heartfelt fullness of treasuring God above all things." This is a great expression of thinking. While we enjoy hearing and reading the words of people we agree with, we have to learn to read and hear the thoughts of others so that we can discern and understand what the will of God is. It's the thoughts of scripture and others that challenge us and allows us to fully engage in a process that awakens our thoughts. Thinking also allows us to remain connected to God and have a greater love for God. In order for us to love God, we have to know God. Therefore, thinking and loving are a connected spiritual practices.

God has given us the mind to think. And he ask us to fully engage the mind through thinking. By thinking, we can "know the truth and beauty and worth of God through Jesus and treasure him above all things and spend our lives expressing this in as many ways as our minds can pursue." Engage the mind God has given you. Stretch your thought process through the scriptures, writings of others, and learn to love Him fully.

Pondering the WOW

2010-10-01T16:31:00.002-04:00

Recently I have been reading the book of Acts found in the New Testament. It has been a refreshing reminder of living in the WOW.

As I have been reading, it has reminded me that we do not have to live in the mundane activities of our daily tasks. In fact, we are invited to live in the exciting life that God has planned for us. And in that life, we are treated with WOW moments....especially when we are looking for them.

Early in Acts people were wowed and amazed. The "wowness" of these people created a desire to wow others (share their wow stories of repentance and love). They were wowed by a life changing experience found in Christ Jesus and they were wowed by the miracles that were performed before them that reflected the love and gracious of Jesus. The "wowness" they were experiencing also created a desire for believers of Jesus to unite in all things - food, fellowship, worship, and Christian action that again would reflect Christ love and graciousness.

It's an awesome thing to be wowed. Think about it. Reflect back to a time when your spouse, a loved one, or friend wowed you. The butterfly stomach of excitement probably set in for a moment, you expressed a great sense of appreciation, and you couldn't keep it a secret. You were overwhelmed with being wowed!

If you are a follower of Christ, remember when you met him or experienced him for the first time? Wow. Or remember yesterday when he provided for you? Wow. How about the time His Spirit lifted you? Wow. The day he met you in the midst of difficulty? Wow. Your worship with Him today? Wow. You see, in all things, God is there and is wowing us.

As a Christ follower, go and WOW someone today with your story of you have been wowed by a loving God who has your life close to His.

PSE

2010-09-24T13:48:00.003-04:00

This winter sports season we are introducing a PSE - Progressive Sports Experience through our Upward Sports Basketball League. And this year we are also celebrating ten years of Upward Basketball in Hanover.

I am excited to introduce you to a progressive sports experience that is based on the development of a child's motor skills through sports. The focus of our progressive sports experience is built on age appropriate development for children starting in kindergarten and continuing through the eighth grade. While we will still be committed to ensuring every child has equal playing time and receive biblical instruction for life through relationships with coaches and team huddles, you will see a difference in our approach to coaching and games.

The PSE will provide four levels of growth beginning with kindergarten and first grade. KNowing that these children are single minded focus, coaches will narrow their teaching to dribbling, bounce passes, and understanding what offense and defense really does. Each team will play four players rather than five to create spacing and encourage team play. At the second and third grade level, you will continue to see cross court basketball, with man to man defense and offensive skills being taught. The fourth and fifth grade level will move to a full court game that will introduce zone defense and man to man press during certain time frames of the game. Children will be challenged to run the court, pass, set up offensive plays and defensive strategies. And the final level will be the sixth through eight grade. This level will allow man to man, zone defense, fast breaks, and involve an end of the season tournament.

As we have studied and Upward is introducing, we believe this will enable us to continue to instruct and nurture the children and families in the ways of God and accomplish teaching proper basketball fundamentals and development. Both will prepare children for further sport opportunity and Christ centered decision making.

Sign up now for our PSE ! Register at www.upwardhanover.org. This year we celebrate 10 years of Upward Basketball in Hanover!

A Life for the Gospel

2010-09-21T21:34:00.004-04:00

Over the years, my family and I have had the opportunity to serve through sports throughout the world. And in each of the places we have lived or partnered in specific projects, we have found special individuals that have challenged our faith and lives.

Several years ago we traveled to China for the Olympic project. During this two year partnership, we were able to travel to the home and church location of Lottie Moon who served in China during the 1900's. While visiting this site we met Pastor Qin Jia Ye. Even though the political and religious culture of China was difficult, Pastor Qin Jia Ye remained steadfast in his love for God, love for his fellow man, and commitment to share the message of Jesus Christ; even in the face of persecution and government control. His spirit was always welcoming and his smile was a reflection of a life that was filled with love and joy.

On August 31, Pastor Qin Jia Ye and his wife, both in their eighties, were killed in the church by a suspected former "member" of the church. The news was a complete shock to the community, the country, the United States, and myself. While I have met some awesome radical people serving throughout the world, I never really thought that I would read of a friends martyrdom. His work will always be remembered for re-establishing the church after being closed for forty-nine years and several hundred baptisms each year throughout his ministry. He will be remembered, at least by me, to be a man who so loved His Savior that the sacrificial life was worth the cost. For today, he is rejoicing in heaven with his bride and all the saints who have gone before him.

While we as followers of Christ seek to be on mission, why is it that we sit in our comfortable buildings, we live without fear, and we quarrel among ourselves? Dear God, please give us a heart for people who are lost and hurting. Create in us a desire to be part of the impossible and face persecution with confidence from you. Amen!

Run with Horses

2010-09-10T10:56:00.002-04:00

Though I am not very knowledgeable about horses, I do love to watch them run. They run with power and they run with stride. The muscle tone that can be observed down the back stretch of the Preakness or the Derby is a beautiful sight. And it can likely be considered the most powerful force of endurance within a 2 minute period.

Jeremiah 12 has something to say to us as well about the power of running horses: Jeremiah 12:5 says "If you have run with the footmen, and they have wearied you, then how can you contend with the horses?" Wow, what a statement. You see, Jeremiah was in a battle that involved fierce competition. His competitors were with idolaters and wicked priests. Jeremiah was continuing to respond to his call from the Lord to condemn Judah and predict her downfall. And it was during this period where he felt discouragement (12:1). Then God spoke to him saying; the competition has just begun, you have been dealing with minor issues (footmen). How will you handle things when it really gets hard (running with horses)?

None of us likes harsh competition or circumstances. It goes against our fleshly desires to work them out and work through them. But perhaps, like me, you are facing some difficult times or issues. During these times we must hold to the promises of God, in the midst of our pleading for relief, that He will grant us the ability to run with the horses. That He will equip us, strengthen us, and sustain us through these days. Throughout the whole counsel of God's written word we find Him being faithful to carrying people through their circumstances and processes. The book of James is such an encouragement for the believer as we "endure hardship."

Ask God to give you the grace when burdens grow great. Ask God to send strength when the labor increases. Ask God to add mercy and peace in the face trials....And watch patiently for Him to work!

Partnering for a Purpose

2010-09-09T08:55:00.006-04:00

This Saturday we host our first Flag Football games of the 2010 Upward Season. And we are looking forward to a season that provides great relationships with players, coaches, and families; as well as great sport development for those playing.

Each year it is great to see how God continues to use people who have stayed committed over the years and how God draws new people to get involved. From League Directors, Coach Commissioners, Coaches, Concession Workers, Field Volunteers, Ref's, and many others who make this season possible.

It's about Partnership - Partnering for a Purpose. People living out their faith together through sports for the purpose of investing in others and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ in word and deed (James 1:22).

Kick off each week is at 9 AM located at the fields of New Hanover Church off Rte 301. Games continue through Noon. Come out and see how God has equipped His people to partner together through Flag Football. You will also see some great football being played!

Get on the Trolley

2010-09-07T17:53:00.005-04:00

The picture featured is Ollie's Trolley in Washington DC. Just two blocks from the White House and south of Metro Center, it is a great place to go for a juicy double cheeseburger and / or a Philly Cheese Steak all the way. It has local character and charm. This has been location to dinners before Washington Wizards games and most recently was our lunch stop while visiting Tyler at George Mason.

I guess you would say this was our last stop before the summer came to a close. We hit DC on Labor Day to visit Tyler and to pick up our new Mac Book Pro. Brendan was able to pal around with Tyler before starting 5th grade today and Rachel Goins took in all the sites of DC, including Tyler (ha ha).

So, I guess after four camps, graduation, college, summer baseball, and family vacation, it's back to the grind of school for another 179 days. And, it's time to get back to the blog.

Response

2010-08-20T17:12:00.005-04:00

It has been said that, " it's not how we act, but rather how we react." So true.

Throughout the New Testament and the writings that reflect the life of Christ, we can see that the idea of response was critical to his representation of his father's will and purpose. His response to those who accused him verbally, his response to those who beat him physically, his response to those who laughed or mocked him, and his response to those who even followed him. Whether he was responding to the accusers or teaching his followers, each of these situations required a spirit filled response. A type of response that calls for obedience to yield to the glorification of God, in all circumstances.

Responses are inevitable and impactful. In our lives we will be faced with great times and our responses will be generous and overflowing with ease. But we will also face times when our responses will take more yielding and reflection. In our sports leagues we teach our players and coaches how to respond to the calls that go in their favor and how to respond to the calls they do not go in their favor. Depending on the call and the response, it can and will dictate the response of the others in the playing area for the better or the worse. The same is true in our lives and particularly those who are following and trusting Christ.

Our responses are the lamp stands for which others will see or not see Christ's spirit dwelling and living in us. When faced with difficult times, we need to allow our response emotion to yield to the Holy Spirit. It doesn't mean that we will not have emotions that may create anger, worry, or hurt, nor does it mean we lay down softly or do not hold others or ourselves accountable for actions. However, it does mean that as followers of Christ, in the depths of our soul and no matter the situation, we desire to live out 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Whether I eat or drink, I do all for the glory of God."

In our responses we must reflect on the life of Christ. Reflect on the teachings he gave others when facing specific actions and reactions. Remember, our purpose, like that of Christ's, is to glorify the Father in heaven and provide a lamp stand for others to see. Don't let our emotions control our response. Let's allow our responses to be controlled by Christ so that others may see the difference within us. Remember, we are considered, according to the scripture, peculiar people.

Sportsmanship Interview

2010-08-06T15:07:00.001-04:00

Check out www.sport.org (sports spectrum radio website) for an interview I did on Sportsmanship. The show consists of a variety of topics with other guests. The interview will air on Saturday August 7th nationwide and is located on the website as well.

Hitt'n the Road

2010-08-06T09:30:00.004-04:00

Vaaa--k--see---oon - this is the french phonetic for VACATION! And that's where I am headed. After a great summer of four sports camps, VBS, and the addition of TRIBL3 Games / Girls basketball league / Sports Training Series, it's off for some fun with the family!

We are headed out and headed south for one final family vaa--k--see--oon (Go ahead say it with laughter and enthusiasm). Yep, this may be the changing of the guards in terms of family vaa-k--see--oons. When we come back Tyler heads to George Mason and well...although he will want to come home for the first few weeks or months, I know by the end of the year he will have gained some independence and momma will begging him to come home (me too because I have some house work for him). This will be a good time for us to enjoy each other and for Brendan to enjoy his big brother for one last party!

Thanks to everyone who worked so hard and participated to make this recreation summer one of impact.

I may blog while I am gone, not sure how the mood will be. If not, I will be back in the office after next week and ready for some insights and growth as we kick off the fall season of recreation and sports in the Cool Spring Rec Ministry.

Things Every Kid Needs

2010-08-04T10:54:00.002-04:00

About 40% of our recreation ministry involves working with kids; from our Upward Sports leagues to sport camps and after school activities. In working with kids we not only have to be knowledgeable about the sport or recreation skill we are teaching, but also the nature and spiritual needs that are present.

In Reggie Joiner's book, Think Orange, he gives five things every kid needs:

A REALLY BIG GOD they can trust no matter what. Kids should grow up knowing that God is big enough to handle whatever they may face.
SOMEONE ELSE who believes what they believe. Kids need friends who will encourage them to grow in their faith.
ANOTHER VOICE saying the same things parents say. As children grow older it becomes more important to have other adults in their lives as spiritual mentors and leaders.
UNCOMMON SENSE to help them make wise decisions. God's point of view and His truth should become the filter for how kids view life and make decisions.
NOSY PARENTS who know where their kids are spiritually. Kids need parents who will be intentional about spending time together as a family and staying actively involved in their children's spiritual life.

Whether we are coaching a team, hosting a day camp, or working one on one with a kid, we (our recreation and Upward ministries), want to be mindful of these areas. Knowing that these needs are critical in the development of a child's faith and life, it is our goal to have an intentional process for addressing each of them.

Still Camping... Multi-Sports Week

2010-08-03T12:08:00.004-04:00

Another week of sports camp has started! This week we are partnering with Overtime Athletics and hosting a Multi-Sports camp for grades 1-5. Campers this week are learning Lacrosse, Floor Hockey, Ultimate Frisbee, Physical Fitness, Volleyball, and field day events / water games.

Throughout the day campers are focused on learning new skills of the game, rules of the games, nutrition for healthy bodies, and character. Each day has a new concept that is taught by our staff as well as a biblical truth. Campers are learning about teamwork, sportsmanship, respect, and accomplishment.

This is a great camp to help introduce children to a variety of sports. It gives kids and parents the opportunity to explore together different and new interests. Often we have our own agendas for what our kids should participate in and we do not allow for them to explore and develop for themselves. As summer comes to a close and you review all your activities / camps / travel leagues, talk about them with your kid(s). Learn to help them explore, they may like it or they may not like it, and discover who they are as well as the areas God has gifted them.

Oh by the way, as a parent of two very different children seven years apart, this is something I have to remind myself everyday!

22 years ago...

2010-08-01T07:11:00.005-04:00

This morning marks the 22 year celebration of being cancer free. It was August 1, 1988 that I found myself diagnosed with a rare cancer (4th in the world) and headed into surgery at the Medical College of Va. That day comes with many memories and emotions:

Uncertain as to why me
President of the orthopedic cancer society was my surgeon, Dr. Walter Lawrence
Family and others support
A lot of sick people around me
My Dad and I laughing as they wheeled me into operating room
Peace of God present during the early prep for surgery
And many others ....

And with each of these, came God's plan for my life. Though I was uncertain, God was sure (Jeremiah 29:11). God had provided the best surgeon for the task and many family and friends were supportive through the process. Yes, I was surrounded by many other children who too were fighting, and God taught me that there are always others with needs. The presence of my father was that of laughter and jokes in the midst of a crisis, it was a true picture of who God is in our lives - a loving and caring father who provides peace in the midst of a storm. And as I grow older each year, I recognize more the blessing that God has given me - life.

The celebration of today will not necessarily be that of a party or big announcement, but simply a presence and awareness of thanking God for his blessings over the past 22 years.

Quotes about Me (and You) Part 2

2010-07-30T09:15:00.003-04:00

I am continuing a series called "Quotes about Me" this week. This little series is taken from John Ortberg's The Me I Want to Be.

If I want my mind to be full of life; I will have to pay attention to what it is focused on.
It starts with a vision of being loved by God.
You have a great freedom - whatever - to allow the Spirit to rewire your mind.
While reading scripture, use your imagination to recreate the details of peoples expressions, smells, and sounds. It's alive!
Peace doesn't come from finding a lake with no storm, it comes from having Jesus in the boat.
The Holy Spirit is a non-anxious presence in our lives.
The goal of prayer is to live all my life and speak all of my words in the joyful awareness of the presence of God.
Temptation is painful to us because when we give in, it doesn't hurt us from the outside; it hurts from the inside.
Real freedom is not external freedom to gratify every appetite; it is the internal freedom not to be enslaved by our appetites.
Sin is the deadliest force, it takes us out of the flow of the Holy Spirit.
You are your own nemesis, your own biggest problem, because there is a relationship between the best version of you and the worst version of you.
There is a ME I cannot see.
Apart from the flow of the Holy Spirit, we can't see our sin.
Repenting is God's gift to us. It does not increase God's desire to be with us. It increases our capacity to be with him.
Being alone with God, I can fully be myself.
Prayer, more than any other activity, is what places us in the flow of the Spirit.

Botswana and the Diamond

2010-07-27T20:37:00.002-04:00

This week my son Tyler and ten others are traveling in Botswana working with several local churches. They will be involved in engaging local people, encouraging national and American Christians, and learning more about themselves as individuals. Over the years, Tyler has been blessed with many overseas opportunities to experience God's love and God's people. Check out the team blog at www.trib3missions.wordpress.com.

With Tyler gone, Brendan and I are going to the Diamond each day for the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball camp. Several players each day are conducting five stations over a three hour period to work with local players in the community to develop their skills in baseball. As a person who hosts and runs camps, I was most impressed at how the players fully engaged the kids and worked with them. It created a great first day impression. Besides a free t-shirt, the Squirrels are providing free tickets each night of this weeks home stand. Have Fun, Go Nuts!

Grace Area

2010-07-26T17:44:00.003-04:00

In follow up to what I have been reading, Rolando Lamb gave a great message Sunday on living in your "grace area." Using the scriptures from 1 Corinthians 15:10, 1 Timothy 4:14, and 1 John 5:5, he brought out three truths for us as followers of Christ to be mindful of :

Recognize the Grace of God - Do you have a sense of the call of God on your life? What is it that God has gifted you with -"grace area" - and are you living in it? When we recognize God's grace in our lives, it will always move us closer to Him.
Work the Grace of God - What people group are you called to minister and befriend? Who is it that is being blessed as a result your grace area? Are you using your grace area to maximize God's glory?
Be Grateful for the Grace of God - Be thankful each day. The Bible says that we are in the will of God when we give Him praise for who He is and what He has done...in all things.

Camping On

2010-07-24T11:09:00.003-04:00

Rolando Lamb, VCU Hall of Fame basketball player and now America's Character Coach, has been in town working with us for our summer basketball camps. This past week we finished our boys camp with 59 participants. This years boys camp also welcomed Ronnie Lamb and several players from New Kent. It was really great to see how these players worked with the boys in basketball skills and also shared their life stories. It only takes a few moments or days to make an impact!

Next week we have 27 girls coming in for another week of camp.

Rolando will also be sharing on Sunday in all three worship services.

Quotes about Me (and you)

2010-07-22T11:22:00.002-04:00

Recently I have been reading through John Ortberg's book The Me I Want to Be. It's a great book that teaches us that "life is not about any particular achievement or experience. The most important task of your life is not what you do, but who you become." It's a process of discovering who we really are and how to live a life of vitality through Christ.

Here are some highlighted marks in my book:

Your spiritual life is not limited to certain devotional activities. It is receiving power from the Spirit of God to become the person God had in mind when He created you - His handiwork
God desires our lives to flourish - to receive life from outside yourself, creating vitality within yourself and producing blessing beyond yourself
Comparison kills spiritual growth
The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. There is an enormous difference between following rules and following Jesus, because I can follow rules without cultivating the right heart
There are always next steps in our lives
When my primary focus is being present with God, everything else has a way of falling in place
Self-improvement is no more God's plan than self-salvation
The only way to become the person God made you to be is to live with the Spirit of God flowing through you like a river of living water (Genesis 2:10)
Sign of flowing is a sense of God-given vitality and joyful aliveness overflowing in you
A generic plan for spiritual growth will frustrate you
Spiritual growth is hand-crafted, not mass produced
Where the Spirit is, there is freedom
Every moment is a chance to live in the flow of the Spirit

Think on these things...

A New Title

2010-07-20T11:54:00.003-04:00

The world is full of titles. And they keep changing. We have gone from Secretary to Administrative Assistant, Pastor to Executive Minister, Counselor to Life Coach / Wellness Coach, and the lists and changes go on.

Recently I was introduced to a new title. And my thoughts of this title were, " everyone can have this title." The title I am talking about is a National Opinion Leader! Wow, there it is. A distinction that most people can add to their introductions. While being introduced to a well versed educated and respected leader in the field of Liberal Arts Education, who currently serves as a Provost, the moderator included in his list of titles / degrees that he was a National Opinion Leader. My perception at that moment was some what of shock that we can consider ourselves leaders in our opinions.

While doing a little more research on being a National Opinion Leader, I learned that National Opinion Leaders are focused on shaping business and industries, influencing study and debate, spreading ideas and expanding the conversation, and influencing and setting policy. There are over 10,000 people a month visiting the washingtonpost.com website to be filters of ideas through theirs and others opinions. With these focus areas in place, I thought about and pondered how Jesus was such a leader Himself (I beleive He is truth, therefore for me to use the term opinion would be incorrect). Jesus placed himself in places to be an influencer. In fact, those places consisted of the temples, homes of sinners, among tax collectors, the sick and needy, and with people who were not like Him. It was in these groups that He shared His message of love and expounded on the teachings of life that affects all of us; finances, debates, policies /rules/law, and others. Jesus had much to say and demonstrate to us how to be filled with God's love and live our lives in such a way that we can be influencers in our commuities.

Give it a try yourself this week and see what happens. Introduce yourself to someone and include you are a National Opinion Leader. Notice their response, give them your "opinion."(And I use the termn opinion loosley). As you do, it's my prayer that you (and me) will solidify are introductions and opinions with the truth of who we are as a follower of Jesus and what He has done for us as people. While we continue to seek and share opinions, remember the scripture is clear that you shall know the Truth and the Truth shall set you free.

Words of Paw-Paw

2010-07-18T12:35:00.003-04:00

Great two days on the campus of George Mason. Tyler is registered for his fall classes, we learned the Mason fight song in preparation for the 2010-2011 athletic seasons, headed into DC for dinner at Bistro Du Coin (great French food), and bid farewell by way of the bookstore and 3.5 hours of traffic back to Richmond.

On the last day of our visit while sitting in one of the twenty-eight places to eat on campus, the words of my father-n-law came screaming out of my mouth in utter shock....."We didn't have this when I was in school." Yep, I said it. This is the phrase he often uses to share stories about the college he and I attended, only years a part. And while he often mentions the benefits to my eduction, I can totally understand the difference now. The opportunities that Tyler has waiting for him at George Mason makes my college experience dinosaur like. And I can only imagine what it will be for my father-n-law on his visit to the campus.

So, here are a few things I'm jealous about, or should I said "We didn't have...."

Cafeteria is no longer a word used with twenty-eight other dinning options
The window to eat 7 Am - 7 PM has now changed to 6 AM - 4 AM (next morning)
Digital textbooks
Three full size recreation facilities for students (where's the old gym?)
From no Internet / email to facebook and a wireless campus
No long lines for registration. It's all done on your computer now
Living learning communities
Free Laundry services that inform you online when your clothes are finished

I guess once again, another part of my life where I am growing up.

College 101

2010-07-14T17:35:00.002-04:00

Headed up to George Mason University for a two day orientation program with Tyler. This will be a great time for him to experience some insight into college life, as well as sign up for some classes this fall.

All of this stuff brings back loads of memories and emotions preparing for college. From deciding class courses, to dorm furniture, and learning a whole new community. The next two days should prove interesting and probably prove how out of touch I am with the up coming generation.

I am excited for Tyler and excited about being on campus. I just hope they don't have me digging in my pockets after each presentation $$$.

Where's the Team?

2010-07-12T12:06:00.004-04:00

Beginning last Thursday night and extending into the weekend, we were introduced to another step of self promotion and exaltation. While we all want to be applauded and hear our name praised, I think we have hit an all time new level. And I am talking about the LeBron James Tour that started several weeks back with NBA teams "courting" him all the way to his grand announcement on ESPN and ending with a party in South Beach Miami, aided by the announcements of Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh.

While I fully comprehend their athletic talents and abilities as basketball players, it just disgusts me to see a new realm of self promotion. At what point did LeBron really believe he was that special that an hour of ESPN TV was worth his announcement of leaving one city for another? And why was it when all three players were introduced in Miami, they were introduced twice as "this is your Miami Heat?" Hello..unless we have changed the rules, basketball still carries five players on the court at a time. They were also awarded three, yes three different keys to the city (one to the beach, one to the city, and one to the county...really?). During the introductions the TV analyst for the Miami Heat continuously referred to them as "The Three Kings." I mean come on..you have just declared them The Team, they can get anywhere they want with all the keys offered them, and now they can run a dictatorship with the tag line Three Kings.

I guess my thought through this process was the concept of TEAM that many coaches teach and stress. Where has it gone? Sure, I know Miami is still putting together other deals to create the best team possible, but the appearance of this is still present - They are the Team. A simple definition I teach and remember about TEAM is : Together Everyone Achieves More.

In hearing all the hype and changing the channels, I reflected back on our own ministry through Sports and Recreation, as well as our church. There is no question leadership is vital on teams, and each of these players will bring some leadership, but without the work of others it will be difficult to win over a long period of time. A team takes a variety of people with a variety of gifts that ultimately make others on the team better. The scripture (1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12:6) speaks about the spiritual gifts given to the believer to do the work of ministry. We are also instructed in working as one body (1 Corinthians 12:12) although there are many parts. In order for any team, ministry, or church to move forward with positive results; it's take each part or person participating.

With the gifts (spiritual and physical) given to you, how are you doing on a / the team? Do you see yourself as a leader, server, or giver? Or do you see yourself simply as the team?

Beef Jerky Time

2010-07-09T17:18:00.011-04:00

While traveling to South Carolina, my son and I wanted to stop off in Concord, NC to visit a few destinations. This area is known for its variety of shopping. From the Bass Pro (which I think the RVA store is nicer), Harley Davidson, Sticky Fingers BBQ, and a whole lot more; we ventured into the Beef Jerky Outlet (www.dojerky.com).

That's right, the Beef Jerky Outlet. Where samples are free before you buy your choice of jerky. We were greeted by the store general manager Zach. He was enthusiastic about the hundreds of jerky available and made sure we knew how the store was laid out and where to start with our buffet of free samples. We had smokey mountain jerky, turkey jerky, hunter sausages, and a mix of others with BBQ sauce, salsa, seasonings, and mustard's. Over 200 varieties of hot sauces were available! The store also offers varieties of jerky like Alligator, Kangaroo, Ostrich, Wild Boar, Duck, Pheasant, and much more.

It was a 20 minute period of male bonding and a lot of jerky tasting. It's amazing how exciting an outlet can be when you find that one store that provides a product no other does.

If your headed through I 85 and Concord, NC ( near Charlotte Motor Speedway), stop off at the Beef Jerky Outlet. Take exit 49 at Speedway Blvd. Ask for Zach and head for the barrels of jerky. You can even hit the website for orders, gift baskets, and gift certificates.

Who knows, we may even have a jerky eating contest at the next Outdoor Ministry event!

Upward Sports Packaging Overseas

2010-07-05T19:18:00.004-04:00

During this week I will be working with my friend Myrna Gregory from Upward Sports. Myrna coordinates many of the overseas Upward Sports experiences and does a great job. I have always known enthusiasm to be contagious and Myrna has that attribute. We will also be joined by two others at the Upward Sports office in Spartanburg, S.C. who have worked with Myrna and have international sports experience.

Together we have received a copy of the Upward Sports Missions Case. This case is designed and used to help those in an overseas market prepare, plan, and host an Upward Sports League or Camp. Throughout the week, we will be reviewing the material and studying it from an overseas perspective; from the language used and the content provided. Through this project, it is our goal to be able to provide as many overseas church leaders or ministry personnel with a sports experience that can be established and duplicated throughout their specific region and culture.

I love this kind of stuff. The excitement of taking a sports ministry tool and working with those from others nations to provide a quality sports experience that will lead to the message of Christ and the establishment of a church. I will say on a personal level, I am more an oral communicator. So, the time I have spent reading over the manual and looking at all its parts this week has been and is somewhat of a new challenge to me. But, I am excited about my time at Upward Sports and the opportunity given to me to be part of this team.

It is also nice to have my wife Kelly and youngest son Brendan traveling with me. Brendan is excited about his purchase of the South Carolina Gamecocks Baseball hat (they just won the college World Series) and Kelly is hitting the peach orchards. We are also having some time to spend with our friends Danny and Merriem Franks (author of Connective Tissue blog) and Kelly's brother Jamie and his wife Kristen in Fort Mill, SC.

Sports Performance Series

2010-07-02T11:12:00.003-04:00

Cool Spring Recreation and Performance Physical Therapy and Sports Training will be partnering to provide interested athletes age ten and older the opportunity to "Develop the Champion Within."

Coached by 1996 U.S. Olympian Brian Hyde, Performance Physical Therapy Staff Trainer Jamie Hammer, and myself; the series will be each Wednesday at the Cool Spring Rec Center from 3:30 - 5:00 PM. Each child will receive instruction on speed and agility, setting goals, nutrition, sport specific workouts, and daily team huddles on developing a winning mindset. This will be a great opportunity for those looking to improve off season skills, learn how to properly train for sporting activities, and grow in their character development.

If you have yet to sign up, visit our website www.coolspring.org for details. First Training starts Wednesday July7 and will finish Wednesday August 18. We will build a makeup day in the schedule for those who miss a week.

Water Day

2010-07-01T12:03:00.003-04:00

Today was water day at Cool Spring VBS. Each year the Hanover Fire Dept. brings in big trucks and hoses and sets up our very own water park for a day. The kids love it, recreation workers live for it, and teachers.....well...let's just leave it at that!

This year's theme was a jungle adventure theme. The kids have also enjoyed hula-hoop quicksand, full costume safari trainer relay, and elephant dung toss.

What would VBS be without recreation!

Sport Specialization Syndrome

2010-06-30T15:06:00.004-04:00

Summer camps are a great way for children to explore a variety of interests and sports. Just this past week, we had several kids participate in our football camp as a trial period for their interest. I commend their parents for using the camp system to test the waters of interest. Too often today, we (those in recreation and sports) are seeing the massive push for kids to be the best at a particular sport at an earlier age. Therefore, they are not experiencing or developing their bodies and minds for other sport/recreation disciplines. As I have been observing this trend over the last several years, I really believe its a microcosm of our culture as a whole - you have to be bigger and better at all costs.

Recently I was pleased to see in the Sports Illustrated magazine on June 7, an article pertaining to the topic mentioned above. Dr. James Andrews, leading orthopedic surgeon and director of the American Sports Medicine Institute, says that "we are seeing kids hurt before they even have a chance to become athletes." Andrews' sports medicine clinics are filling up with kids who are playing one sport year round in order to get the exposure and skill needed to make the junior varsity or local travel baseball team. A whopping 60% of the athletes that Andrews sees are now high school players or younger! Dr. Andrews says, "I don't think epidemic is too strong a word." Today it is common to see stress fractures in cross country runners, frayed ligaments in soccer players, and strained elbows and shoulders in baseball and tennis players. And the reason for the large number of injuries - sports specialization. Parents today must pay attention to the amount of activity their athletes participate in and ensure they are doing enough different activities that create proper muscle development as well as emotional development. The physical and emotional stress placed on our kids is in return giving us discouraging numbers in both health and participation in sports.

Here are a couple of recommendations to think about: It is recommended that kids "cross-train" in order to develop their bodies properly. Make a choice to encourage your child to play a variety of sports at an early age. Choosing one sport year round will create burnout for your child by age thirteen. Support your child one sport at a time. Don't sign your child up for two or more sports within the same season. Make sure your child is also playing a variety of positions throughout the season. Eliminate the same mechanical motions day after day. Teach the game from different perspectives.

While every parent of a child playing sports wants them to excel and make it to the college ranks or as a professional athlete, you have to ensure first that they are having fun and you are providing a positive experience for them. Besides, most professional athletes didn't decide their professional sport until college. Encourage your kid to try a variety of sports and activities. Give them time to develop, and don't chase the trends of our culture. Let them be kids and enjoy the game!

For more information on safety tips for sports, visit www.stopsportsinjuries.org.

Rec Interns

2010-06-29T20:32:00.003-04:00

Awe..... the freshness of having Recreation Interns this summer!

Each summer the recreation ministry is provided the means to hire summer interns. And I love it. For several reasons: they are enthusiastic and breathe life into our ministry, they fill the gaps needed while volunteers are on vacation, and they are given the opportunity to lead and develop ministry skills.

This summer we welcome back Hunter Goins and Will Hausenfluck. And we welcome to our team Logan Spiers. Throughout the summer season they will stimulate interesting conversations among our staff as they are at different levels of college and areas of interest. I never thought I would be old enough to say this, but they are keeping our staff young! They will be, and currently are, responsible for planing and leading Vacation Bible School recreation, organizing a Monday night student recreation league, working the rec center desk, organizing equipment, and touching up the facilities. An intern will basically do it all! That's why I /we love them.

Investing in others and providing the opportunity for people to explore ministry and lead is one of my passions. It's going to be a great summer!

Camping out on Psalm 139

2010-06-24T09:47:00.004-04:00

Football camp is underway this week with forty campers and 12 coaches. The lines have been painted, the field prepared, end zones set, and temperatures over 100 degrees! Oh yeah, are you ready for some football?

Throughout the camp our staff works hard to teach the game of football. From drills and skills that teach speed / agility, catching and receiving, passing, and defense. Each station is equipped with coaches ready to help each player develop into the best football player they can become. And each coach is prepared to help each player recognize the person God created them to be.

The camp verse for the week is Psalm 139:14 - "I praise you because you made me in an amazing and wonderful way. What you have done is wonderful. I know this very well." As we gather for our Game Plan Speaker time, this verse is taught and applied to specific sport attributes. There are several truths we want our campers to take home both athletically and spiritually. First, we teach on the concept of success. I love John Wooden's definition of success, "Knowing you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming." Because of God's great creation of us as people and individuals, we can focus on becoming the best we are capable of rather than focusing on others and comparing ourselves to their abilities, lifestyles, and personalities. In order for us to see the potential inside of us and becoming the best we can, we must first see that we are God's creation and He has done an amazing work. With that perspective, we can then understand that our success is defined and built in/through our Creator.

We then build on this lesson with the concept of poise. Poise is often thought of as being calm or self assured. But poise can be defined simply by "just being yourself." Remember, God created you in an amazing and wonderful way. Learning to live in daily belief of who God has created you to be, will always lead to living in a spirit of calmness, becoming the best you can be, and facing difficult or anxious moments with self control.

The last part of our camp verse for the week leads us to the final concept of living in confidence. Unfortunately our world celebrates arrogance and self confidence. In many arenas, people are promoting themselves every chance they get. But when we look at the last part of the passage above, it says, "I know this very well." Knowing is not just head knowledge or a hopeful thought. It is a daily surrender to believe that you are amazing because of the image in which you have been created -God's. While our athletes are preparing themselves for on field success through drills and skills this week, we also want them to know that it is God who has equipped them for life and Godliness. Because of His plan for each our lives we are able to live in confidence each day.

When we live in God's perspective and understanding of who we are and the potential that is within each of us, we then can become the person or athlete we want to be. Remember, it's confidence in God and His work in us, rather than ourselves.

Making Time for Conversation

2010-06-21T17:52:00.005-04:00

Recently I was reading ESPN the Magazine. In each issue they have a professional athlete that writes particular stories about life in the professional sports world. This past article was about the on field conversations that take place throughout a baseball game.

For most of us, we see and hear the umpires, the crack of the bats, the sound of vendors barking sales, gloves popping, and reactions from both players and fans. It's part of the thrill of the game. But for major league players, there is another element taking place: the on field conversation. While these players know each other, they rarely have time to spend with each other. So, while playing against one another, it's catch up time. The conversations that happen on the field and in between innings consist of wishing each other luck in the next series, critiquing the pitchers, how funny someone looks in a uniform or acting in a commercial. One player wished the base runner good luck just prior to yelling out, "Running" before the steal. And of course, there are the third party conversations between player, bat boy, and fan that even take place. Who would have thought that while the average fan is locked into the atmosphere of the game, it's the players time to communicate with each other.

So, who are we talking to and what about? Everyday we cross paths with people we work with, people we do not know, and people who our in our lives at the start and conclusion of each day (family). And it seems we have gotten so busy with our schedules that our conversations have slowed down. Creating opportunities for conversation has become more of an art form than a past time at the local market or dinner table.

Having and developing relationships is important. Christ lived His life conversing with others about their lives and His. He found ways to engage them and talk about everyday experiences while communicating His love with them. As you go about your day, look for ways to communicate with people. It's not always going to be the long conversations, but rather the one minute impacting ones. The scripture speaks about the person who speaks a word of encouragement, speaks truth in love, and whose words add salt to the conversation. Be a person of communication. Listen to those talking, engage others around you, and share a word of encouragement through Christ's love.

Graduation # 1

2010-06-17T08:36:00.002-04:00

This weekend I will be celebrating the first high school graduation of our family. My son Tyler has completed (I hope no last minute surprises) his 12 years of education. Several interesting facts about his 12 years are that he has lived in two different countries (spoke English, Arabic, French), two different states, seven different school systems and eleven different homes.

In watching him prepare for graduation, I found myself reflecting back to my high school graduation. As the years have passed I can not really remember the feelings or emotions I had on that last week of school or graduation night. So I decided to look back at both our achievements and compare. What I found was this:

Things in common between us:

A High School Diploma
Accepted in to college (Chowan College for me and George Mason Univ. for Tyler)

Things not in common between us: (Tyler's awards that I did not receive)

Hanover Scholar
4.1 Grade Point Average
Principles Service Award
National Honor Society
BETA
Weighted Internship TV 99

Well done son. You have pressed on toward the goal despite many relocation's and making of new friends at each place. You stayed focused on your task ahead and trusted Christ's direction for your life.

Although our achievements may be somewhat different, I am still two more degrees up on you!
(In time I am sure you will pass this as well)

Have Fun Go Nuts

2010-06-16T12:46:00.004-04:00

The buzz phrase at The Diamond is: Have Fun Go Nuts! The Richmond Flying Squirrels continue to promote themselves in a positive manner and reinforce family and baseball as a winning combination.

Last night I had the opportunity to head to the Diamond to see the Squirrels play the Double A Mets. Myself and youngest son Brendan were invited to join Renton Arkesteyn and his son Caleb. Caleb and Brendan are the same age and will be playing fall ball together in September.

The night started out with a free Inaugural Baseball and an invitation for Brendan and Caleb to play a middle inning game on the field. We then headed to the picnic area for a full buffet of hot dogs/burgers/ribs/drinks/and salad.

At the fifth inning, the kids headed down to the field to get ready for their game. Caleb on the first base line and Brendan on the third. With the fans cheering, they raced back and forth building a pizza. From putting out the crust, to laying on the cheese and pepperoni. In great stride they finished strong and each given a Ledo pizza to enjoy. We then headed back to our seats next to the Mets bullpen and they worked tirelessly in gaining the attention of future Major League players. By the end of the night, they both received a legit Eastern league baseball that was used on the field of play.

What a night for us fathers at the ball park. To watch out kids dream about playing baseball, to seeing them on the field playing in the half inning game, to receiving a baseball from the players. It's what a night at the park should be. It was a night that allowed for Renton and I to have memories with our kids. And it was a night that the boys could Have Fun and Go Nuts!

New Age Joshua's

2010-06-15T15:50:00.004-04:00

The World cup is under way. Soccer games, I mean football games, are being played each day in South Africa with great anticipation. And while I know our attention is supposed to be drawn to the actual matches being played, it appears that the players and teams have been robbed by the sound of buzzing bees....The Vuvuzelas. Vuvuzelas are South African horns being played throughout each match. While you can not see them through the TV screen, you certainly can hear the awful buzzing noise over the commentators. They have become a popular expression of soccer that is rocking the World Cup.

While thinking about or trying to comprehend the concept of the Vuvuzelas, I couldn't help but think back and wonder what the people thought about Joshua and the horns of his people (Joshua 6:1 - 20). If the people of the world are irritated by cheering fans blowing horns, what was the level of irritation when Joshua's peeps started to blow their trumpets for a victory at Jericho? Even I asked the question during the USA / England match, "what's up with these buzzing horns in the background? They are going to do what?" Certainly that was the same thought people had when Joshua gave instruction for the them to shout and sound the trumpets. The result was a wall falling down for a victory. God was glorified.

While I am not sure the Vuvuzelas will guarantee a victory for any team, it is safe to say they have grabbed our attention. Whether you like them or not, they have created a buuzzzzzzzz.

Pilates and Ellipticals Grow

2010-06-10T12:15:00.003-04:00

In a recent Club Industry report (research through Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association), continued growth in the area of use for Pilates and Ellipticals topped the scale. While many other fitness areas have grown over the last ten years, none more than these two.

Pilates offers people a great group fitness experience and allows you to work and develop at your own pace. The Elliptical is another example of how training through appropriate technology can bring many people into an active lifestyle.

On the list of other fitness areas in highest to lowest ranking were:

walking for fitness
bowling for fitness
treadmill for fitness
free weights for fitness
running/jogging for fitness
weight resistance / stretching

If you are looking for a place to experience Pilates or use the Ellipticals, come by the Rec Center. We have both and offer a personal training option as well. Remember, our goal is to help you be both spiritually and physically fit for the life God has in store for you.

Well Done, Coach

2010-06-08T13:45:00.003-04:00

Well Done, Coach
Taken from FCA daily devotion

““For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.” ”
--Psalm 84:10

While talking with his son, John Wooden told him that he needed to shave because he was going to see his bride very soon. The basketball coaching legend knew his final breath was coming, and he wanted to be ready to meet his Maker and his wife. Going home to glory at the age of 99, Wooden left an example for all coaches, no matter what the sport, to follow. NBA great Jerry West said, “He did not have two sets of rules for his players…they all played under the same rules.” Wooden was true to his faith in Christ, true to his family, and true to his fundamentals of life, which had been taught to him by his parents back in Indiana so many years ago.

As great a coach as Wooden was on this earth, and as many titles and trophies he won, I have no doubt that he would have traded them for a single day in the presence of the Lord. I’m sure that even the greatest feeling of a national title was nothing compared to the moment when Wooden met Christ face-to-face. Coach knew that Heaven, not Westwood, was not his true home. He lived a simple life and passed it on to many. He held seven personal “keys to life,” and followed them closely. They included…

Be true to yourself.

Help others.

Make each day your masterpiece.

Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.

Make friendship a fine art.

Build a shelter against a rainy day.

Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.

Coach Wooden is now in a better Hall of Fame—one with streets of gold. There, his championships mean nothing and he can sit with his bride and share the joy of Heaven with the saints of old. I thank the Lord for this man’s impact, influence and Christ-like example. I am sure he was greeted with the line we all want to hear when our time comes: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Coach Wooden, thank you for being a blessing to countless coaches, athletes and fans around the world.

Sports Spectrum Radio

2010-06-08T09:38:00.002-04:00

Just had a great opportunity for a radio interview with Bill Houston. Bill hosts the national radio program for Sports Spectrum Radio out of Grand Rapids Michigan. Sports Spectrum Radio has been impacting our culture for over 20 years and airs over 200 stations. They are in partnership with RBC Ministries and produce devotionals such as Our Daily Bread.

The topic of discussion for this particular interview was sportsmanship. While sportsmanship is an ongoing teaching process for all people (kids to adults), it is part of the discipleship process we use in our Recreation Ministry. In the interview we discussed the role of a coach in teaching sportsmanship and the responsibility we have as a league to instill those principles. A key biblical verse we teach our participants is 1 Corinthians 10:31, "Whether you eat or drink, do all for the glory of God." In all our actions, our practices/games, in how we play (by the rules or cheat), we need to do so from God's perspective and His glory to others. Sportsmanship covers a variety of circumstances that occur naturally or by freak of circumstance. In either instance, our response needs to be consistent. See blog entitled Perfect Sportsmanship a few days back.

The interview will air on August 7th online at www.sport.org and also in various Virginia cities (Ashland and Chesapeake are included). Check out www.sport.org for a specific FM or AM station in your area to hear the interview.

Also, bookmark www.sport.org and www.sportsspectrum.com as a favorite sport website. They have great articles and interviews with local, collegiate, and professional athletes.

The Second Act

2010-06-04T16:58:00.002-04:00

Starting this Sunday, my wife Kelly and I will be teaching with Scott/Karla Allen, Andy/Anji Lacatell, and Steve/Emily Jones in a new community called The Second Act.

This group will consist of those fresh out of High School, currently in college, young adults, and newly married couples. We are looking forward to connecting with them as they enter in or are currently in the second phase of their lives. Through lessons we have learned, it is our desire to walk with them and facilitate/create an environment that fosters community and spiritual growth.

We will look first at Acts 2 for what real community consists of and then proceed through the book of Galatians for an in depth study of Grace.

National Donut Day

2010-06-04T16:52:00.003-04:00

It's National Donut Day! That's right, go to any Dunkin Donuts or Krispy Kreme and receive your free donut. As some of you may be learning, I love coffee and donuts! Go ahead....get a free donut!

Perfect Sportsmanship

2010-06-03T08:40:00.002-04:00

The baseball nation was poised to witness history last night with the potential "perfect game" in sight for Detroit Tigers pitcher Armanda Gallaraga. After retiring 26 consecutive outs, the potential final out of the game was ruled safe at first by umpire Jim Joyce. What was clearly a missed called, and admitted missed after the game by Joyce, halted Gallarage from being the 21st pitcher in baseball history to record a perfect game. Though the Detroit Tigers would defeat the Cincinnati Reds 3-0, the spirit of loosing the perfect game was another blow to a struggling town.

In the midst of great disappointment for baseball fans (as well as Jim Joyce), one thing stood out to me as I watched the event unfold. From the one who should have been bothered the most, the pitcher, the nation witnessed sportsmanship at its best. Gallaraga, though I am sure disappointed, responded with respect for authority on the call that was made and refused to make any comment on the umpire in after game interviews. Sure, he could have rightfully blamed Jim Joyce for blowing history (as most of us did in the moment), but he made a choice to celebrate the great performance he had and accept the way in which the game was played.

Sportsmanship is and should be the standard by which we participate in any recreational or professional sporting event. Sportsmanship involves the following:

respecting the game - rules, coaches, umpires, fans, and others participating
playing by the rules - removing any cheating or shortcuts
playing your best - do the best you can despite what occurs during the contest, it's not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game
being proactive and not reactive - doing your part to represent sportsmanship in light of circumstantial issues within a contest
demonstrating a healthy competitive spirit with self restraint - play hard with self control, refusing silly fouls, penalties, and self promotion

While we were all anxiously cheering for the perfect game, what we witnessed was perfect sportsmanship. Gallaraga applied each of these points in the moment of controversy and pressed on to complete the game with a one hitter in 9 complete innings. Which is still a great performance.

Take Your Best Shot

2010-06-02T12:18:00.002-04:00

I just finished the book entitled Take Your Best Shot by Austin Gutwen. In 2004 Austin was nine years old and set out on a journey that would touch the lives of children throughout the world. His passionate desire to raise funds for AIDS victims living in Africa was achieved through 2,057 free throw shots on a local basketball court. Austin took one simple video, a round ball, and turned it into what is now known as "Hoops of Hope" with events held in over seventeen countries and over one million dollars raised to impact kids through basketball each year on World AIDS Awareness Day.

Austin's message to the reader: "God wants to use you."

Throughout each chapter, Austin lays out some great truths of God and God's desire to use each person for His kingdom while on earth. This book is not only applicable to the teenager who may be struggling with a purpose and passion, but it is a great reminder to adults that God desires us to be challenged and stretched in our Christian work.

A couple of key points I picked up:
* A passion for someone always begins with a broken heart. It was a broken heart and a sacrificed son that provided us salvation through Christ. It was a broken heart for kids living in Africa with AIDS that led to the dream and vision of "Hoops of Hope."
* Maggie Moments are critical. For Austin, Maggie was the first person introduced to him that created a moment of concern and passion. Can we see a face in need? Are we experiencing Maggie Moments in our lives for people or places in desperation?
*Everybody lives for something and dies someday. What are we living for? What if we would give to others as much as we give to ourselves.
*It's all a matter of focus. If we focus on what we do, it becomes all about us. If we focus on who we are, then it suddenly becomes about God.
*It depends how available we are if we make a difference or not. Choosing to be available will allow for God to work through you in greater ways.
*Key to Life: Loving God, ourselves, and others will open the door to life as God intends (Matthew 22:37-38).
*Discover your passion and live in it.
*Making a difference in contagious.

Check out www.hoopsofhope.org for more info.

Thanks to a good friend and fellow laborer in recreation ministry Ed Berenson for giving me this book to read and explore. Ed lives in passion for making a difference. If you don't know him..watch out..his contagious.

Extraodinary with the Ordinary

2010-06-01T16:59:00.004-04:00

Just returned from our basketball trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia. And I am simply amazed.

Once again God was faithful in our travels, our camp work, and to Himself. After arriving safely in Halifax and getting settled with a fresh lobster meal ($5 a pound!), we started off with some praise and worship for the week. Then it was preparation time Monday morning for what would be ahead of us in terms of opportunity and basketball camp details.

Our desire throughout the week was to be able to connect with the local community while we were out and about (mainly at Tim Horton's coffee shop - it's where all the locals go. And no I am not addicted, just committed) and to provide a basketball camp atmosphere that fostered fundamentals, positive reinforcement, and spiritual truth through team huddles and building blocks of character as represented in the scriptures. We also hosted a class for parents discussing the culture of sports and their child's involvement in it.

I must admit the response we received from the camp was somewhat shocking. Last year after the camp we received some negative feedback in terms of sharing the gospel. This year we found more parents and children receptive to the love reflected through our coaches and the verbal witness of Christ. I believe this change occurred over the past year due to the effort in which Living Hope Community put forth in hosting a winter basketball league and building relationships. The people of Halifax have now seen and heard the message of Christ. And because of that love they have opened up to a new trust level that allowed for us to return and go deeper with a different response. The reminder of this in terms of a missions perspective is that it's about relationships! It's about partnering and working together with a commitment to a community for more than one "trip."

Another moment of shock for me was that despite the fact that Living Hope only has 40 active members, they actually pulled off hosting and developing a league that was affective for their community. Within this group of folks there is not athletic directors, former college or high school basketball players, and even recreation ministers. They are just different people from different backgrounds with a desire to be different in their community. From a biblical view, they are ordinary people doing extraordinary things because they yielded themselves to a God sized challenge. All I could do was sit back and chuckle at how God works.

As I return and reflect on this trip and how it has impacted my life, there are two key points:

Make and continue to build relationships. Have a genuine interest in people and what makes their world go round.
God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes.

M.A.W.L.

2010-05-21T10:55:00.003-04:00

This weekend I will be traveling with six others to Halifax, Nova Scotia to assist Living Hope Community Church in a basketball camp.

One year ago we established this partnership with Living Hope. And from the beginning we set out to MAWL. No, we will not mawl them in a physical way, but rather in a spiritual way as they seek to use recreation to impact their community. The word MAWL stands for Model, Assist, Watch, and Leave. We have led a camp in their community, taught coaches training, and had their pastor visit our site during our season. Now we are moving into the assisting process. This week our team will be assisting local coaches from their church in hosting an instructional basketball camp. We will also be teaching seminars for parents on the topic "Parent Survival in the World of Sports." The assisting process is good because it is the giving over or giving away that which God has provided. It is the time in which Living Hope takes ownership and development for the future of their recreation ministry using basketball. Though it's sports, it's a New Testament church planting process.

I look forward to sharing with you about trip on our return the first week in June. If I get the chance and get to a computer, I will put a few thoughts down regarding our week.

All for One

2010-05-20T17:56:00.002-04:00

There's nothing like a good compliment from your surrounding community. Last week an article entitled All for One: Cool Spring Baptist Offers Recreation for One Dollar was published in the Atlee High School newspaper.

Prior to the article being published, I received a phone call regarding doing a story for the school newspaper. While I thought that would be a great way for community awareness, I had to ask, why? The student reporter then explained to me that "many students loved coming to the Rec Center after school (I know they come) and everyone talks about the Rec Center, so, we decided we better write about it." What a compliment! And more importantly, what an opportunity! This article teaches several points. First, when you offer good impressions and quality experiences, people will respond to them. I love the fact that the students in our community are talking about us! Secondly, it's these impressions that always opens the door for spiritual investment. Many times our Rec Staff and Volunteers have the opportunity to talk with them about life issues and choices that are impacting them. This is scene throughout he scriptures. Jesus himself would deal with the physical issues that would lead to spiritual issues.

One of the ways in which we are looking at impact is through student recreation. While the Rec Center offers open gym hours and weight room / game room options, we are moving more in the direction of focused recreation for the purpose of connection - connection with others and connection with Christ. This summer on Mondays we will be offering Trib3L (pronounced tribal - it's a student thing) Games in cooperation with our TRIB3 Student Ministry. Games will include a variety of fun and challenging non-traditional sports. The rec league will begin in July. Make your plans to GO TRIB3L!

God Working Depsite Being Behind

2010-05-19T19:37:00.004-04:00

Well.........I'm behind (obviously as I have not posted in a few days). Getting behind seems to be the thing to do in our culture. It makes us sound busy, and for a lot of us we are, and it makes us feel important. It's as though when we are not behind, we are not being productive.

However, getting behind is a killer on us as individuals, parents, spouses, and even friends. I am not one who likes to be behind or piled high in projects. But often times I find myself in this position - behind in preparations or piled high beneath sports and rec administration and ministry opportunities.

In the midst of being behind though, God has been putting new opportunities before me in terms of maximizing our facility for new impactful sports ministries. I have been meeting with people for further development of our fitness / cardio area, starting a Sports Performance Training Ministry for ages 10 and up, and working with another local church in expanding our Upward ministry in Hanover County. As I continue to see and shape the future for recreation ministry, I often wrestle through these new phases. But, I love it when God brings people into my life that are passionate and gifted in working in these areas. Praise God for using people as a vessel for establishing His Kingdom on earth.

Stay connected to the Recreation Ministry of Cool Spring and look for details of these opportunities to come.

Now Serving...

2010-05-12T12:05:00.002-04:00

We are now brewing fresh Dunkin' Donuts Coffee in the Rec Center in the morning from 5:30 AM - 11 AM. So, if working out or exercising isn't your thing, then come drink from our newest fountain of freshly brewed coffee. If coffee ain't your thing either, well.......bless your heart.

Summer Camps - Sign Up Now

2010-05-11T09:29:00.006-04:00

It's time to sign up for Summer Camps through the Cool Spring Rec Center. We have several camps this summer you will want to be a part of.

Flag Football Camp - June 22 - 24
Rising 1 st graders - 5th grade
Located at the fields of New Hanover Presb.
Cost is $40 NOW
6:15 PM - 8:15 PM
Camp Shirt included with specialized instruction and scrimmages
Sign up online through www.coolspring.org/csbcreccenter/default.asp

Boys Basketball Camp - July 19-22
Ages 7 - 15
Located at the Cool Spring Rec Center
Cost is $100 / after June 30 $125
8 AM - 3 PM
Camp will include conditioning exercises and basketball skill development
Camp shirt included with specialized instruction
Sign up online through www.coolspring.org/csbcreccenter/default.asp

Girls Basketball Camp - July 26-29
Ages 7 - 15
Located at the Cool Spring Rec Center
Cost is $100 / after June 30 $125
8 AM - 3 PM
Camp shirt included with specialized instruction
Camp will include conditioning exercises and basketball skill development
Sign up online through www.coolspring.org/csbcreccenter/default.asp

Boys & Girls Summer Ultra - Sports Camp - August 2-5
Rising 1st - 5th grade
Located at the Cool Spring Rec Center
Cost is $140
8:30 AM - 3 PM
Camp shirt included
Camp will introduce kids to a variety of sports
Sign up online through www.coolspring.org/csbcreccenter/default.asp

Picture on the Course

2010-05-10T12:36:00.006-04:00

I had the opportunity to play golf on Friday with some of our new Upward Sports Ministry leaders. It was a great day for golf in terms of weather and I didn't strike the ball to bad.

These outings are always great. It provides an atmosphere of fun and self-competition as well allows us focused time to talk about what is ahead for our Upward Sports seasons. During this round, we talked about Flag Football and Challenger Basketball. I love to hear new ideas and watch them develop over time. You can't beat enthusiastic volunteers (although sometimes you have to contain them).

Golf provides a lot of great lessons. From integrity, character, and honesty. But on this day, the greatest lesson was reminded to me on the number 9 green as I was putting for par. Lining up my putt required me to look ahead of the hole in order to read the green. Just as I did, a picture became words. Behind the green there was Ivy growing on a telephone pole in the form of Christ on the cross with a backdrop of a white house with one painted red door. As I continued to look at this backdrop the thoughts of Christ hanging on the cross for me came to my mind. Also, the red painted door represented his blood stain for me and the white house created the image of purity. What a picture and image.

I have included the photo for your viewing and reflection. It always amazes me to be reminded of Christ love throughout the day in a variety of ways. This reminder occurred to me on the 9 th hole. Who says God isn't about golf!

A Day at the Fields

2010-05-06T20:21:00.002-04:00

Today was a baseball kind of day! The weather was perfect and the time spent with friends, co workers, and family was great.

Started this morning out at The Diamond to participate in Education Day. First pitch was thrown at 10:35 AM. What a way to start your day. I had the opportunity to go see the Richmond Flying Squirrels play the Altoona Curve with my associate Steve Rowe and Rec Desk Volunteer Bob Roza. The seats were great and oh what a game. I really enjoy watching baseball. In fact, I even keep my own scorecard while watching the games. Any 9 inning baseball game is good, but what's even better is FREE BASEBALL. By "free baseball" I mean extra innings. Today we went 11 innings and defeated the Altoona Curve 2-1 in the bottom of the 11th. Squirrels are having a great season and an awesome record at home. If you haven't been down to the stadium, check out the Squirrels. It's family fun and good baseball - www.squirrelsbaseball.com.

Tonight I headed out to Mechanicsville Little League to see my youngest play. He had opportunities to play center field, short-stop, and third base. He had a great night at the plate going 2 for 2 with a home run to right and double up the middle (Dad was proud). The coach gave him a nice surprise to be the closing pitcher and he struck out the last batter for a 9-6 win against an undefeated team. Another great game played by all the MLL Blue Jays.

Aaah...a day spent in America's Past-time. I guess I will have to come back to reality of everyday life tonight as I prepare for my round of golf in the morning with some Upward Volunteers. Remember, it's all about relationships and Playing 4 Him.

Step Out There

2010-05-03T10:07:00.002-04:00

Every season I receive some great stories through our Upward Sports Leagues, and I receive some not so great stories. But this past week was a success!

We have now been playing soccer for over 4 weeks. Practices are going good, games are developing nicely, and the skill development is becoming more noticeable each week. I have been in tune to one particular player throughout the season. She is a four year old girl who is playing organized sports for the first time. When a four year old signs up, you have to understand that some may be enthusiastic about playing and others maybe a enthusiastic, but bashful. She falls on the enthusiastic but bashfull side. Every week she comes to practice and cheers her team on while practicing with her parent on the sideline. Though she is not fully engaged on the playing field, she is still doing drills on the side having fun. The same is true during the games, she loves putting the uniform on and cheering alongside her teammates. Each week with anticipation I look forward to seeing how far she will go in terms of staying on the playing field rather practicing on the sideline. And each week brings a little more time and comfort.

Well, this past Saturday, as usual, she arrived for her game dressed in her uniform ready to cheer her team. However, for whatever reason, she was not only enthusiastic, but was ready to actually play on the field. And that she did! She participated in the whole game and loved it. Following the game I received a text message from her parents saying that on the way home she was cheering the words "way to go me" and singing "Jesus Loves Me." It was a big s day for her!

I couldn't help but think of a phrase used in spiritual discipleship that says,"If you want to walk on water, then get out of the boat." Much like this little four year old, you and I are enthusiastic about our faith and trust in Christ. But we are also bashful. There are things that God has asked us to be a part of in terms of service and discipleship in our Christian walk. Often our response is to hang out on the sideline and watch others or just contribute a little bit of our time or giftedness. All the while missing the joy of complete participation. Like our little soccer player, when we finally step out in the areas Christ asks us to participate in, do we experience that great victory and joy that only comes after obedience. Go ahead, step out there.

Slippery Hurtful Ice

2010-04-29T10:49:00.002-04:00

As a Washington Capitals fan (National Hockey League), I'm hurting. This past season the Capitals finished as the highest scoring team an number 1 going into the playoffs. In fact the first round of the playoffs they would play the Montreal Canadians, the number 8 team.

But the ice was slippery and the fall was hard. The Cap's would be up 3 games to 1, only needing to win one more game. Unfortunately, the Canadians came back as a number 8 team and defeated the number 1 team 4 games to 3. Oh the hurt and shock that was on all Capitals fans last night, as well as the coaches and players. It may go down as the worst upset in the teams history. For at the beginning of the season and through the midpoint of the season the Capitals were poised and ready to win the coveted Stanley Cup. And it didn't happen. Why? I'm still so stunned that I really don't know (not enough goals scored when it counted).

However, I have learned that in life the expected doesn't always go our way. The hopes and dreams we have set out for us sometimes are altered by circumstances, actions, illnesses, and life issues. And in those times we can become stunned or shocked to the point of being paralyzed. I can remember in my own life when the unexpected hit our family and we had to make a career move as a result of health issues and God's new direction for our lives. And in that shock, Romans 8:28 became real for me, " For we know that those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to the will of God." It was this verse that released me from my shock of change. For this verse reassured me that even change may be inevitable and circumstances happen, but God is still in control. You see God is never surprised or shocked as we are. In his love and insight before us, He has a plan and purpose for each of us.

So, in your defeats, surprises, and shocking experiences, look to God for direction and guidance as he equips you and prepares you for what is ahead.

As far as the Capitals go, it was a great season with a different ending. And for now my jersey will hang back in the closet waiting for next year.

God Moments

2010-04-28T11:47:00.002-04:00

If you have ever been involved as a coach at any level of play, you understand that throughout the course of a season there our "teaching moments." By that I mean there are times when in the course of an at bat, a goal kick, a long distance run, or game ending play; that you will have the opportunity to take a difficult lesson and develop the character of a player or a team. That's what is so great about working in recreation. It combines the skill of the game and the development of character.

I also like to refer to those as "God Moments." Moments in life when to our surprise, only because we are not anticipating God's hand working daily, that God places us in a place or position that He wants to teach us or use our lives for His glory. While running a sports company in a third world culture oversees, all to often "God Moments" would occur as I was setting up new leagues, inviting coaches and players from the neighborhood streets to participate, and meeting with government officials.

Well, last night I experienced a "God Moment." During an adult basketball game I decided to walk on our track. It's a great place to walk and see the games being played from above. As I was about to finish a friend of mine called my name and wanted to walk a few laps. My first response was to think that I needed to get back to the adult game at hand, but the other side of me really wanted to just walk and visit with him. So, we started another lap and before I knew it the game was over and the next game was starting. It was great! The conversations we had about how God was showing us new things in our lives and what steps we could be taking in order to continue our faith journey and seeking Christ's will for our lives was thrilling. It was a "God Moment."

While "God Moments" are thrilling because they come to us as a surprise, I cannot help but wonder what life would be like if I anticipated every opportunity to be a thrilling experience of seeing where God wants to be involved. The challenge is to enjoy the thrill of God blessing us with moments of surprise, but to learn to live in expectation of His presence in all things.

The great missionary William Carey phrased it this way, "Expect great things from God, Attempt great things for God."

Upward Training 2010

2010-04-23T08:54:00.002-04:00

Headed out today with twelve others to Baltimore for the 2010 Upward Leadership Training. Our Upward Sports ministry is unique in that involves several other churches in the area. Through our partnership we are able to impact our community in a variety of ways. It is exciting for me to be able to go with these new leaders from various churches in order to continue to see and shape the future of our Upward Sports ministry.

In continuing our efforts in providing the best sports ministry experience possible, our folks will be diving into everything from evaluations, computer drafting process, coach training, substitution system, and ministry opportunities. It is a focus of ours to provide each player/participant with an opportunity to learn the sport of their choosing through quality coaching and game day experiences. It is also our focus to meet each player and participant where they are in life and introduce them to a relationship with Christ through our actions and words.

If you are interested in being a part of our Upward Sports Ministry as a player, coach, or leader, check our website out at www.upwardhanover.org. For more information about Upward Sports, go to www.upward.org.

You can also SIGN UP NOW for our Flag Football Camp June 22-24 and the 2010 Flag Football Season at www.upwardhanover.org.

Define It

2010-04-21T13:40:00.003-04:00

The difficult thing about the English language is knowing which particular definition goes to the particular word. The word that I am going to mention today certainly falls in that category and even carries the weight of personal opinion and expectation. The word is competition.

Like the word leadership, competition has several thousand definitions, understandings, and expectations. Throughout any given day I encounter people who engage in competition or talk about competition. Within those participating, whether playing or talking, there are differences that arise. From the thought of winning at all cost to making sure every one receives a reward for their involvement.

In this brief blog let me give you a definition of competition that I believe fits well. In fact it even points to a biblical view of competition that is positive for us all. Roger Oswald, leading developer of sports and recreation resources, has penned the definition of competition to be, "the pursuit of a goal in the face of resistance." I agree with his statement both athletically and spiritually. In many recreation activities or games, we are against a resistance in the pursuit of our goals. Whether that be in a baseball game, a fitness class, or a golf match. I would also agree with Caz McCaslin, founder of Upward Sports, that competition is also measured and defined as "an equal opportunity to win... And there is a difference between competition and healthy competition." Unfortunately most people have in their minds a view or definition of competition that is defined by having the best ten players on a team and putting a beating on another team or individual.

From a spiritual viewpoint as Christians, we too are in a competition. We are striving for the goal or prize that Christ Jesus has set before us in the face of resistance - the ways of this world. It's in this competition that we learn life lessons and teaching moments when the resistance is before us. You may have noticed that in this life when things are well we are not really in growing mode. But when we are battling the things of the flesh, the world, and the devil, we find ourselves growing deeper in our spiritual walk.

Therefore, in light of the definition provided for competition, I would say competition is good and even biblical. Like sports and life, it's the times that we have to respond to resistance that we find ourselves developing for the better and learning lessons to enhance our recreation activity/sport and Christian walk.

This is simply a brief overview and a place to start in terms of your thinking about competition. Ask yourself what's your view of competition and why? Competition stems from what you are passionate about. It's that passion that creates competition. The passions you posses stimulate motivation, inspiration, and are transferable to others (good or bad). So what's your passion? Is it winning, is it developing children with proper sports instruction, is it glorifying Christ in your sports experience?

SERVE

2010-04-20T14:41:00.003-04:00

Over the last few days I had the opportunity to participate in the CSRM, Church Sports and Recreation Ministers Conference. I really enjoy this conference because it involves people working globally through church sports, dives into practical experiences of everyday recreation and ministry, and offers some academic discussion regarding recreation.

Over the course of several days, Vice Presidents from Chick-Fil-A participated in the conference. Many of you may be aware of the great leadership model that they have developed in order to ensure that each Chick-Fil-A location offers the same service and quality experience. From top to bottom, they build their leadership structure to work within the acronym SERVE.

Here is what SERVE stands for:

S - See and Shape the Future
E - Engage and Develop Others
R - Reinvent Continuously
V - Value Results AND Relationships
E - Embody the Values

Whether we are overseeing a ministry, a business, or raising children; each of these are options for us to reflect on.

Matthew 20:26 "It must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,.."

Pentagon to the ATL

2010-04-12T21:27:00.005-04:00

Along with the Cool Spring Travelers, I have a day planned to tour the Pentagon. With a group of 40 headed out early Tuesday morning, we are going to take in the sites and sounds of the Pentagon and the new memorial built for those who lost their lives in 911. Being a Washingtonian fan, I am looking forward to being in the city and learning more about the Pentagon on this detailed tour. The Cool Spring Travelers is a great way to catch a variety of traveling experiences both around Richmond and other areas.

From the Pentagon I will be making my way to Atlanta to participate in the Church Sports and Recreation Ministers conference. This conference includes those involved in recreation and church growth both nationally and internationally. It's a great place to gain a global perspective of the Christian work taking place through recreation and sports. Having lived in Northern Africa for several years, I miss the global perspective of what God is doing in His world. And this conference is a way for me to stay in touch with those serving Christ through sports in the international world. From facilities and lack of facility use, coaches training, league development, sports and spiritual discipleship, relationships and evangelism, fitness and health, and the list goes on. All of these topics will be discussed in detail to further stretch us in how we view and use recreation and sports to impact our culture with Christian principles influenced through the life of Christ.

Each of these trips will provide me the opportunity to engage others. Others who will impact and influence me through their life experiences and journey with Christ.

Augusta

2010-04-11T19:50:00.004-04:00

There is no place like Augusta, GA - home to the The Masters Golf Invitational. There are a lot of sporting events throughout the year, but this one ranks top of my list to watch and follow. For a majority of them I can participate in other events or activities, but the Masters is one that grabs my attention for the weekend.

2010 brought about another championship for my favorite Phil Mickleson. I have been cheering for Phil since my days in high school as a golfer and his days at Arizona State. As I was watching him today I thought to myself, "why do I put myself through this." Watching Phil play sometimes brings out the emotional roller coaster in me. Phil is a great player, but tends to be up and down at moments luring you into a sudden cheer and then into a sudden anxious panic (I am aware I should not be this impacted by a TV golf event but I am). Through it all this weekend, Phil put it together and won his third Masters Tournament.

This brought my attention to a song we sang today in worship regarding "laying them down." Laying down our struggles and sins and anxieties of our lives. And I asked myself the same question this morning, "why do I allow myself to experience an emotional roller coaster event in my spiritual life?" Why is it that some days I am as confident in the days events and others I just can't grasp it and lose my focus. The answer is that I do not trust Christ and I do not "lay them (worries and life issues) down." No where in the scriptures will you find our relationship with Christ to be an emotional experience. For if it was, we would all be in trouble. Our relationship with Christ is based on His work on the cross and the Holy Spirit guiding and directing our lives. It's based on truth not feeling or emotion.

Like me, "lay them (whatever your emotional worries or life issues are) down." Enjoy the guidance and direction of Christ and the Holy Spirit in your lives. It's then that we can begin live to in freedom and joy of what is ahead of us.

On a side note - it's great to see Phil win the Masters after a year of his wife Amy battling cancer. That's a story in the world of golf worth hearing. Although I am afraid the scandalous gossip of another golfer will still grab the attention.

Faith and Fitness

2010-04-09T11:05:00.003-04:00

I want to introduce you to a great online resource for Faith and Fitness. It's called Faith and Fitness Magazine. Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with Brad Bloom, publisher, and talk about Faith and Fitness.

Faith & Fitness Magazine is a lifestyle resource to build physical and spiritual strength. It helps readers make connections between the Christian faith and their fitness lifestyle. It is your tool for powerful, healthy, and passionate living.
Lifestyle Media Group is an energetic network of thinkers, communicators, and media developers all with a passion to inspire and motivate people to live life fully. Faith & Fitness Magazine is published six times per year. It is currently only available on the Internet.

If you enjoy reading and research on basic topics such as Nutrition, Training,Seniors, Family, Culture, Professional Development, and other areas, check out www.faithandfitness.net.

Spring Break Fitness Camp

2010-04-08T12:10:00.002-04:00

Today and Friday from 8 - Noon we are offering a Spring Break Fitness Camp for kids. We are working with Overtime Athletics in providing fun filled fitness activities and games to promote fitness and exercise.

It was great to watch the first day of camp and see the kids run, jump rope, learn the food pyramid chart, and play relay games incorporating a variety of sports. The sounds of laughter and enthusiasm was a blessing.

Creating a culture of exercise is difficult with adults. But with kids and all that our electronic crazed world offers, is even more difficult. This camp was a first step for us in making intentional strides to help our kids get out and play games, exercise, and learn the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.

Tangled Up

2010-04-01T09:28:00.002-04:00

As you know from the previous post, I was enjoying the use of my new rod and reel until a mysterious occurrence happened.

The other afternoon I was headed out for some errands - Post Office and Dick's Sporting Goods. I was able to take my youngest son with me since we were going to Dick's for his baseball pants. Having the fishing rod in the truck, I was expecting a great conversation and bonding time about fishing and the outdoors. We were off and things were going great. I stopped by the bank then headed to the Post for what would become a 25 minute wait for a certified letter I didn't know I was receiving and they didn't know where it was located. While inside, Brendan was out in the truck. Finally, I received the letter and headed out to the truck myself. And what to my wandering eyes should appear...but fishing line coming out of the reel from top to bottom. The true test of any father not to lose his cool spirit. Calmly I asked my son what happened. His response was simple, "I don't know." While chuckling I asked again and again he said, "I don't know." The mystery has begun now on how the fishing line went crazy while I was in the Post and he was in the truck.

We then headed to Dick's and I didn't press the topic any further. After arriving home I started to work on the reel and pull some of the line. An hour later I was still pulling the line and finally I called him in the room and simply asked him to be honest about what he did to the reel in order to help me understand better how to fix it. His answer this time was "I can't remember." The mystery still surrounded us on how the line escaped the reel. After much thought and line pulling, I just took it all off and decided to just run new line and start over the next day.

I couldn't help but think how true this story is for all of us. Sometimes we find ourselves in a tangled mess. Whether we can recognize how we arrived in that tangle or not, what is true is that those tangles happen before we realize it. And some of those tangles occur from innocent interests or from deliberate interests. For Brendan, I am sure it was curiosity that got him tangled and he was embarassed to express that to me. Fortunatley this time God led me to remain calm and responsive to him. That leads us to another truth, often we may be embarrased to express our tangles to God for his forgivesness and love. But, the truth is that He already knows and is ready to respond to our messes.

In this life we will find ourselves in some messes and tangled up issues. I am thankful that in those times we can have the confidence to give them to God who cares for us and loves us in a way that welcomes our burdens and issues. So whatever mess you have found yourself tangled in, give it over to Him and let Him make you anew again.

PONDering

2010-03-30T14:20:00.004-04:00

Sunday brought us a great rain that I thought was going to wash out my fishing trip with fellow outdoorsman Brent Bosher. But, after meeting over a great breakfast Monday morning, we decided to hit one of the Rec Center Volunteers pond and do some fishing anyway.

And fishing we did! With my new rod and reel (sponsored by my friends in the outdoor ministry)we started out drowning some tackle and then the fish grabbed on for some fun. We caught some bass and some blue gill and eventually a little sun. All of which we released back into the pond.

It was great being in the outdoors to get refreshed and enjoy some time just PONDering God and His creation. Certainly having the opportunity to do these kinds of things is a great benefit to being the Recreation Minister at Cool Spring!

Glossy Wood

2010-03-24T16:22:00.003-04:00

The aroma of a freshly refinished gym floor is a sweet, OK maybe not so sweet, smell. Monday the Rec Center had its annual refinishing project for the hardwoods.

Thinking back to when I was a kid, I remember playing on basketball hardwoods that actually had more wax on them than the layer of wood they used. It's the way they did it back in the day. One refinishing job every 10 years was good enough because of the amount of wax they used to re cake or re coat the floor. Well, as with a lot of things, the times have changed. And while I am a fan of a friendly environment, re-doing a gym floor is now an annual event. Due the chemicals and products being used, the layers are no longer as thick. Therefore, requiring us to re-do it yearly. We are going "green" in the refinishing business.

The Rec Center will remain closed until next week. However, if you drop by to see your reflection in the glossy wood, please do not step on the floor. And for those who will be joining us on Sunday for our two services located in the Rec Center, we apologize now for the aroma of a "sweet smelling environmentally green refinished floor."

Expo Expo Expo

2010-03-23T11:30:00.004-04:00

The 2010 Sportsman's Expo was a great opportunity for outdoor education, community development, and relationship evangelism.

This year we had the opportunity to partner with fourteen different outdoor companies and organizations committed to continuing education in the outdoors and ministering to families in the process. From Green Top, NWTF, Maritime Ministries, Cavalier International,Nature Conservancy of VA, Va Deer, Noble Warriors, Tim Skelton and decoys, Chad Hoover and Kayak Bass Fishing, and others. Throughout the day we had vendor booths available for one on one interaction with these representatives as well as six different seminar sessions focused on fishing techniques, turkey calls and decoys, land conservation methods, and online resources for those passionate about the outdoors.

Following our education/vendor time, a group of about 300 headed to dinner for wild game and special speaker Gary Miller of Outdoor Truths. The food was awesome and Gary's conversation regarding outdoor truths and God was a powerful connection. For the majority of outdoors people (hunters/fishermen), they do believe that there is a greater being who created the environment they find themselves in by way of a duck blind, deer stand, lake, or woods. And it's in this that they can see God's compass of creation that points them to Him. While many may not connect with a church, Christians, or Jesus, they do grasp the beginning premise that God is the Creator God. From there, the opportunity to meet Him and live with Him develops. On this night, we had several say yes to God's call on their lives through His son Jesus.

While the 2010 Sportsman's Expo was a great event, the opportunity for ministry continues as we head into turkey season, bible study options, and follow up with various people and outdoors organizations.

Let Him Do It

2010-03-19T16:55:00.003-04:00

Throughout the year, three times specifically, I find myself encouraging our sports league directors that God will provide coaches. And no matter how many years we have hosted these leagues, God has provided volunteers and coaches.

The long lasting slogan of Nike is "Just Do It." Often times in a volunteer organization I find myself saying we have to "Just do it." We have go out and find coaches, we have to go out get more players to balance the teams, we have to "just do it."

While our staff and league directors have the abilities and personalities to organize, structure, recruit and run our sports leagues, we must yield ourselves to let "God (Him) Do It." Each year God proves Himself in providing our resources of players, coaches, league coordinators etc. In all these positions we meet new people each year with special gifts and desires to be a part of our sports ministry. And each year or season, I find all those worries of needs and "just do it" issues cared for by our heavenly Father. The scripture is clear on God's provision for us first in Christ Jesus for our lives and secondly in our daily needs. The scripture also reminds us to lay our burdens and worries aside for His care. It's when we fully trust Him and abide in Him do we lay all those worries/needs aside and watch Him provide.

I am thankful for those individuals who God has brought to our leagues willing to coach, lead, ref, and volunteer. These are God's provisions in my daily work through Recreation ministry. As I continue to grow and learn to trust Him more, I simply need to "Let him Do It."

Nutzy

2010-03-16T09:30:00.003-04:00

Making his Upward Celebration Debut was Nutzy from the Richmond Flying Squirrels Baseball Club. With the inaugural season set to open for a home game on April 15, it was a great opportunity for our community to meet Nutzy and learn more about our new local Double A baseball affiliate with the San Francisco Giants.

One phrase I keep hearing around town is the concept of fun. The slogan that the Squirrels are using is "HAVE FUNN, GO NUTS." Even while listening to their staff talk on the radio or at various locations, they repeatedly will emphasize the desire they have to help families make memories while having fun.

I love the concept that they are building on. They are setting the stage for families to once again enjoy America's past time and do it with a recreation emphasis - FUN. While I want to see good baseball played; I am excited about taking the family to the ball park for an affordable price, give a-ways, fireworks, and good conversations and laughs between innings - Making Memories!

Check out the Flying Squirrels website at www.SquirrelsBaseball.com.

(For some who are wondering,Nutzy is the one with the mascot outfit on...)