In their own words …
In October of 2014 our school and football team, of which my youngest son was a member, experienced the tragic death of two studentathletes. It was a difficult experience for all involved, especially the families
In their own words …
Tommy Clopton- Brookhaven High School
of those two young men. Through this tragedy, God began to work in my life and the life of our team, but I wasn’ t always open to listening to Him. We finished the season, but things were different. We missed the playoffs for the first time in over 9 years. The next season started with more injuries than ever in all my years of coaching and got off to a 0-6 start. We worked harder, the pressure grew, and the results got better, but something still wasn’ t right. The greatest pressure I felt was self inflicted and I let it affect my relationship with my players, my wife- April, my son, and my family.
Former coach and FCA Representative, Jeff Terrill, told me about the Coaches Time Out. I registered my wife and I to attend, thinking if nothing else it would be a good opportunity for us to get away. Little did I know the impact that CTO would have on my relationship with God, my relationship with my family, and my relationship with my team. The music, worship, and fellowship that we experienced that weekend truly began a revival in my life. Our lives are hectic seven days a week, but for that weekend we were able to focus on each other and be reminded of God’ s endless grace and mercy. CTO helped me to understand the work that God had begun in me, even when I wasn’ t listening. In Matthew 11:28, God tells us that all who are weak and heavy laden should come to Him and He will give us rest. CTO was just the opportunity that I needed to cast my troubles and worries on Him. And just like God always does, He restored my mind, body, and spirit.
The FCA Coaches Time Out was a great experience that has impacted my family, my team, and most importantly, it has helped me to have an impact on others.
Dennis Alexander- East Central Community College
My wife and I decided to attend CTO last year not knowing anything about the event. We thought it would be a good time to get away and have sort of a minivacation. Well, we were in for a vacation and so much more! We had a chance to meet other coaches on a personal level and participate in marriage building activities. My wife was able to meet other coach’ s wives and discuss all types of life-changing events since becoming a coach’ s wife. We were able to witness all the great things God is doing through coaching and the FCA ministry. We worshipped, laughed, prayed, and shared our hearts throughout this event. My wife and I left this event more spiritually connected than ever before. Since this event, I have accepted the FCA Coach position at my place of employment and it has been a blessing to me and my family. We are excited to see what God is going to do through the work of the FCA ministry on our campus.
For more details on these stories, visit: mississippifca. org / 2016
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