I was at practice the other night with the National Selection Team (Costa Rican National Team) and I was struck with this overwhelming joy!! Seeing the offences vast improvement over the last few weeks, coupled with the success of a playbook that I created (granted there isn't much "new" about it), in a sport that I absolutely love, with guys that are growing as players and men...THIS IS MY HEAVEN!!!
Here is a quick run down on all the things going on here with TDTD Ministries...
I am the offensive coordinator for the National Selection Team, that will be going to El Salvador to play in the Central American Football Tournament September 10th thru 15th (three games in 5 days OUCH!). I was/am in charge of creating, teaching, and perfecting a playbook that is up to 53 plays (but will balloon up to 3x that when we make cuts) We practice 2 nights a week and are working hard. Player cuts will be passed out in another 2 weeks so we are on the cusp of naming the 2013 Costa Rican National team!!
I am also the offensive coordinator for the Saints (one of 8 teams in Costa Rica's 1st division of american football). We have just recently started our preparation for the two season we will be a part of this year and next. The Saints will be a part of a private league, along with 3 other teams from the 1st division, competing for $1000 first prize and $500 second prize payouts. Hopefully, the money that we win will go towards paying the players inscription fees for the 1st division season that starts January 2014!! For this team I am also creating a new playbook! Trying my best to highlight the talent on this team and giving the Saints the best chance possible to become champions!!!
I am also a part of the group of owners and coaches working with FEFA (federacion de futbol americano), the governing body of all things football here in Costa Rica. We are striving to reorganise how 1st division operates in Costa Rica and trying our best to create an environment conducive to growth of the sport while establishing our formal relationship with FEFA. Johan (the Saints head coach) and I represent one of the 8 teams and are one vote and voice in this process. My goal here is to help the sport grow while keeping the best interest of the players in mind (in meetings full of owners and head coaches this can be hard to do).
During all of these other responsibilities I am also a Christian trying to live the way God wants me to. Trying to love others as God has loved me. Sharing life lessons when I can and when it will have the most impact in someone else's life. Teaching men how to be dedicated, work hard, be a good friend/teammate, be responsible for oneself and your actions, push through pain and hardship, celebrate in a responsible manner, and enjoy sport and life! While my role and influence in football is steadily growing in this country, this part ("ministry") is vastly slower, but steadily moving. Every role I have here in Costa Rica is permeated by this part of my life. This is why I LOVE MY JOB!!! Every day I get to show my love for people through my love for football, and Christ!
