August 4, 2005
For the first time in Corban history, the women’s soccer team is taking a pre-season, Caribbean sports mission trip.
They raised $34,000 for the nine-day venture in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where they plan to participate in three soccer games against local clubs, lead sports clinics for about 400 youngsters, be involved in the outreach for and show the Jesus film, and visit several orphanages.
“It has always been my vision to take a team on a mission trip, ever since I started coaching 10 years ago. I thought it would be good for the girls to bond together before the season started,” said Coach Marty Ziesemer. “It’s going to bring them close together, and that will reflect in their season here.”
Students who participate in missions endeavors are much more apt to be involved in missions for the rest of their lives, said Ziesemer, who doubles as dean of enrollment management.
“We’re educating students here to make a difference in the world for Jesus Christ,” Ziesemer said. “They don’t have to wait until they’re out of college, even if they’re athletes – especially if they’re athletes. Sports provides an open door to building relationships, and it’s in relationships that people really hear and understand how much more fulfilling their life can be, if Jesus is not only a part of it, but in the center of it.”
The women will participate in the missions endeavor under the umbrella organization Outreach Adventure Ministries of Garland, Texas, and will play under that name so as to not affect eligibility during Corban’s season, Ziesemer said.
“I think it will be a really good experience for our team to bond together before our season starts,” said Lyndsey Hawk, co-captain and right fullback. “It will be good for them to see a group of women dedicated to the Lord who can show that through their sport.”
The 20 players, their coach and his family leave Aug. 4 for Jamaica and are expected to return Aug. 12.
-- By Karen L. Willoughby
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