Fall Update

Hey Friends and Family, I just wanted to give you a overall update of what has become of the girls sports site in the past year or so.  Also, enjoy the pics of some of the girls on the varsity team! 

Shakira: Wears Uniform #7

Home Barrio:  Corocito (lives up in the mts 15 min away from practice)

Statistics:  Dominates the position of setter for the varsity team. Has a mean top spin serve. Still a bit timid, working on being more vocal and running the court.  

“My personal goal is to better my relationship with my dad.   He does not want to continue being my dad like before.  I need to continue fighting for my dad and giving him what he deserves.”  This was said by a 15 year old Mabelis in response to the question, “What is a personal goal for your life?  Most 15 year olds do not take it upon themselves to “fight” for their dads.  However, girls here in the Dominican Republic are forced to fight for all kinds of things that may not seem natural. 

Mabelis:  Wears Uniform #1

Home Barrio: Cristo Rey (shares a two bedroom home with mom, brother, grandpa and mom)

Statistics:  Mabelis has a strong attack from the outside as well as the middle.  She leads the team not only on the court, but is a dominating force in motivating her teammates to live for Christ.  

Through the avenue of volleyball, we are able to help girls see beyond their hard home lives and seemingely hopeless situations and start setting goals for their future.  We currently are working with 5 volleyball teams throughout the city of Jarabacoa.  Within that larger circle of 80 girls practicing and playing games weekly, I have worked hard to invest in a smaller circle of 12 girls that belong to the varsity team.  This is the group of girls that, God willing, will be traveling to the United States in August of 2012.  In addition to a more intense game and practice schedule, these girls have been sponsored to attend a private school and a rigorous English program.  In addition to their education, discipleship is a key component in transforming these girls into well-equippedwomen who can rise to be world changers for Christ.  

Keysi:  Wears Uniform 6

Home Barrio: Pinar Quemado (20 min from court yet has never ONCE asked for a ride) 

Statistics: Keysi has the passion that drives this team to excellence.  Keysi plays right side but its her dedication and work ethic that make her unstoppable.  Keysi became a Christian last spring and continues to grow and push her teammates in the same direction. 

I feel so blessed to have the support of my church family of Blythefield, friends and family.   Your prayers and support have been huge.   I hope that next August, you will be able to meet this group of girls when they come. The will be attending volleyball camps, participating in homestays, and going on a youth trip.  These girls have been such a blessing in my life, and you are a big part of making that possible. Thank you so much for investing in me and the lives of these girls."

Prayer Requests

1.     Girls can grasp hope for their lives through Christ who empowers them.   
2.      Fundraising and logistics of trip (visas) can go smoothly and quickly.

Leslie: Wears #5

Home Barrio: Vanessia 

Statistics:  Leslie is one of our biggest weapons in the front row.  She plays middle and has a wicked slide approach around the back. Leslie's high level of play continues to motivate her teammates to work hard... and BLOCK to try to slow her attack down!