We got to play with the lions!

 

 

Ok, no. That was on our South Africa trip.  Try that again.

The boys soccer team got to play a friendly match with the Lady Lions — the Women’s Cameroon National Soccer Team as they prepare for the all important Africa Women Cup of Nations coming up in November.

A Pot of Bibles

Before the game, coach Jordan Cone told a story. He talked about one of the things he learned from going on evangelism trips with his dad to villages in Congo. He said wherever they went, even the poorest people brought out a pot of food to share. He said that while we will share a beverage at the end of the match, he had something of far greater value than food to present to them. He had a cooking pot filled with French Bibles, food that feeds the soul, that is eternal. He encouraged them to use the Bibles as they prepare for the Cup of Nations.

By the smiles on their faces, it looks like they appreciate the gift of God’s word.

The Game — Lions 3   RFIS 3

A relationship has developed between Coach Cone of RFIS and the Women’s National Team Coach. God is blessing that relationship, giving our boys a great experience in soccer, and giving us the opportunity to share Christ in high places (in national sports circles).

For Ben this is his 3rd time playing the Lady Lions in 2 years. The first time the boys were star struck — Cameroonian students had watched this team play against other countries on TV! These are local celebrities! Others were awed at the sheer strength, speed and ability of the women.

By now, though, they’re getting used to it, and are playing better. The first time we lost 1 to 4. The second game we tied 1 to 1. This time the match ended in a tie again, but 3 to 3!

Favorite moment — Ben kicked this one in, the goal keeper blocked it, but Ben’s team mate popped it into the goal!! We’re saying Ben got an assist on this, even if officially that’s not how it was called.

For the local scoop, check out this news article.: Team News: Lionesses Rainforest 3-3