The Azusa Pacific women's soccer team returned home from a 10-day trip to Columbia. The team participated in service activities in the local community while competing against some elite teams on the pitch. Through all of the experiences the team had while in Columbia, the Cougars were able to embody their faith and share the gospel with those they encountered.
“It was so much fun watching my girls serve, play, laugh, cry and share with each other. There were so many moments that made me so proud of them,” said the head coach. Brooke Lincoln“My heart was filled with joy, peace and gratitude.”
During their time in Colombia, the team served in four districts (neighborhoods) by rolling a soccer ball and playing with the children. The highlight for everyone was a visit to the New Jerusalem neighborhood where refugees are settled. The children were so excited and were able to connect with the Azusa Pacific players and coaches through their love of the sport of soccer. Many of the players shared their stories and testimonials at the start of training in each district, and many seeds were planted from their willingness to share.
“The most fun part of the trip was definitely playing with kids from the district and neighborhood. It was so cool to see how God moves and communicates through soccer,” the senior midfielder said. Hannah McClain“It was amazing to see the kids and the team bond over just passing the ball. It was one of the best experiences of my life.”
Senior Goalkeeper Maddie Williams He added, “My favorite memory was attending sector training and playing football with the kids. Not only was I able to share my love for football, but I was also able to share my love for God.”
Two players committed to making Jesus Savior and Lord of their lives and the group witnessed the baptism of three people on Sunday afternoon. The team also attended a local church and were reminded that God is big and is at work all over the world.
Freshman midfielder Julia Galdames “This experience reminded me of God's unconditional love for us and that we should live our lives trusting in a greater being. Since I accepted being uncomfortable and submitting to situations that glorify God, I feel so much closer to my coaches, teammates and God.”
On the playing side, the team played three games and had two official training sessions in Columbia. This gave the new 2024 team a chance to spend time together and build ties on and off the field. The team went 3-0, scoring 13 goals and conceding one. Lincoln and the team described the country as vibrant and the city filled with passionate soccer fans. Every day they saw people of all ages playing from early in the morning until late at night, sometimes until 1 a.m. Lincoln said, “The field was always full when we passed by. Soccer is still somewhat restricted, but I think we were able to encourage and empower those who are playing.” Lincoln continued, “I believe that after our experience in Columbia, the players will play for a greater purpose this fall.”
Not only did we get to play the sport we love with other passionate athletes, but we also got to share God's word with the people we met,” the freshman defender said. Paris Coleman“I heard testimonies, witnessed baptisms, and even got to pray for and with the people I was blessed to meet. I experienced God's love through each and every person I met in Colombia.”
The 2024 women's soccer team's trip to Colombia was successful and productive. Now the team looks ahead to next season. Lincoln has 17 returning players and 13 joining the 2024 squad who will soon begin training for the competitive schedule ahead. The Cougars will be looking to have another successful season on the pitch, opening with an exhibition match against Hope International on Friday, August 23rd at 7pm at the Cougar Soccer Complex.
