Joel’s March Madness
After months of planning, Joel got through his March Madness sports week with a great turnout! High school students from the community attended the event – they played in tournament games and heard the Gospel shared by special guest Herbie Kuhn. Randall, Joel’s LAUNCH coach, was presented a plaque as an appreciation for their work together. What an encouragement to see a coach and young leader match so well together!
Keep reading for Joel’s review of how it all went down. -LY
Before the existence of TSA, it was a given vision of mine to use the platform of sports to introduce Christ. Launch Youth Unlimited (Launch) gave me a coach in Randall Linton who was the tool that helped me build my vision with suggestions, ideas, and thought provoking questions. He guided me through every turn, and supported me in orchestrating the birth of TSA. I am honored and thrilled that God brought Launch’s ministry into my life.
On March 16th to the 18th Toronto Sports Association (TSA) celebrated its 1st Annual and launching event entitled “High-School March Madness” Basketball camp & tournament, which focused on improving the lives of youths on and off the Basketball court. In the opinion of majority, it was a wonderful success. It was held in the Gym of “The Prayer Palace Church” (TPP), who welcomed us with opened arms to use their beautiful facility. This unique event included teaching and improving basketball skills through various drills, team competition and Christian guest speakers such as Pastor Tom of the TPP and Herbie Kuhn, voice of the Toronto Raptors who encouraged and blessed the hearts of everyone.
Each Athlete paid $20 to participate and that included free team uniform, free food, training and competitive games for three days, four hours each. Since this was the first event, no one knew what to expect, especially with the attendance from athletes. We were blessed to have a total of 32 registered athletes who showcased a lot of talents, with great passing, shooting and specular dunking abilities.
The volunteer group was very helpful in the success of our event because they all conducted and mentor the players through their positive attitude and words of encouragements. They all received a thank you certificate for the great work and involvement.
Were also thankful to have Herbie Kuhn join us at our first basketball camp and share an inspirational message. In his devotional speaking, he stated that “Success is when preparation is met with opportunities.” Herbie Kuhn was also grateful enough to provide giveaways, and other gifts. Approximately 20 individuals eventually gave their lives to Christ. Amen! These individuals will never forget this moment because we are following up with those individuals to show that we care and they are all looking forward to our next event
Huge thanks to all the sponsors and supporters of our 1st event that made it possible of us to achieve our goal. Canadian Basketball Academy, Pizza Ville, Launch, Prayer Palace Church, and many others that contributed basketball equipment’s, food, and encouragements and without them allowing God to use them it wouldn’t be possible
Looking ahead, our vision is unique and challenging and the task ahead requires a united effort, however we continuously seek guidance from God to maintain the vision. We welcome prayers and support from others to join together with TSA and make a change that will impact lives and strengthen our communities through the platform of sports; saving lives one game at a time, because we believe in “More Than Just Sports”.
- Joel
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