By Vicky Kaniaru
CLEVELAND, Ga. (TMCNews) – Truett-McConnell College athletes will travel to San Jose, Costa Rica, Aug. 1 on a week-long mission trip to hold soccer camps and share the message of Jesus Christ.
“The Truett players all have been blessed with an ability to play soccer, which is something that can only come from God,” said Coach David McDowell — TMC’s head men’s and women’s soccer coach. “Essentially we are to glorify God in all we do, and this is an amazing opportunity to use our God-given ability to help spread His kingdom in another country.”
“We hope to see people come to Christ while we are there, but we also hope to help the local church that we are partnering with as well be able to show Christ’s love in tangible ways to a people who have little,” said McDowell, who will lead about 30 athletes, men and women, on their first overseas mission trip.
“This is my first time leaving the country, and I’m excited to see how people live in other parts of the world,” said Haley Swinson, captain and goalie of TMC’s Women’s Soccer team. “I look forward to how God will use me on this trip, and also how the trip will change all the athletes and their perspective about God.”
The athletes will play matches against local teams, spend a day at an orphanage, and have plans to assist in a construction project.
Several athletes report they have received donations from family, friends, and their local churches to help defray their expenses. However, some players still need sponsorship for this international ministry. Persons interested in aiding these athletes should contact David McDowell by email dmcdowell@truett.edu or call 7069692179. Donations can also be sent to the following address: Truett-McConnell College, 100 Alumni Drive, Cleveland, GA 30528.
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