WOMEN'S BASKETBALL
One of the joys of our ministry to the women's basketball team has been the opportunity we get to spend around these ladies, "outside" of our pre-game chapel time. Whether at practice, around campus, in our home, or on road trips, these times are simply "priceless".
Over the past several days, Jenny has been on a 5-day road trip with the team back in both South and North Carolina. Whether through leading pre-game devotions, enjoying a meal together, or having simple conversations on the bus, Jen has found creative ways to connect relationally with the girls while on this trip.
Jen and I are forever grateful for the chances we get to make these "small deposits" into the lives of these student-athletes.
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| Working out with injured player, Chrissy Baird on 12/19. |
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| Jenny making good use of her time at practice on 12/19. |
BEACH VOLLEYBALL
This past Thanksgiving weekend, Jenny traveled to Hawaii with her beach volleyball team for a pre-season tournament. Over the past few months, the team has been hard at work preparing for the upcoming season. With the addition of four freshmen joining the team, this trip was also a great chance for them to bond together as a unit. Jenny is looking forward to how the team builds upon last year's 3rd place finish at the NCAA National Championship Tournament.
Click on the link below to see a very cool video the team made while working on a Kalo Mud Farm while in Hawaii.
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| Enjoying the sights of Hawaii w/ Kamila & Izzy on 11/27. |
BRUIN VARSITY LIFE
One blessing that recently occurred was an opportunity for our BVL ministry to come alongside the UCLA Sports Nutritionist, Beth Miller, as she hosted the 1st annual Thanksgiving Feast in celebration of the International student-athletes we have at UCLA. Those who could attend were encouraged to bring a dish from their native country to share with others. The evening was fun and turned out to be a huge success. Our only agenda that evening was simply to come and serve those who came. Perhaps the best part was meeting several new athletes who normally don't come to our Tuesday night fellowship gatherings. This dinner event was just a fun way to connect with many of them by learning about their cultures. We are looking forward to building upon this event next year.
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| International Student-Athlete Thanksgiving Dinner on 11/21. |
WHAT THEY ARE ASKING...
Our BVL leadership team decided to ask our student-athletes what things were most on their hearts in an attempt to better serve them. Below are some of their responses.
We hope to naturally address many of these questions over the course of the school year. When school reconvenes in January, we will begin a new teaching series through the Book of James. We can't wait to get started.
MEN'S BASKETBALL
Our men's basketball team is off to a great start this year. They are currently undefeated and are the #2 ranked team in the nation. As great as this sounds, Coach Alford and his entire coaching staff are working diligently to ensure the team keeps it focus by staying both Humble yet Hungry.
One of the ways these coaches attempt to do this in their own lives is by keeping God at the forefront.
For the past 7 weeks, we have been working through the Book of Ephesians together. I enjoy leading these weekly 30 minute sessions and hearing them share their hearts along the way. Our discussions have been very fruitful and my sense is they are enjoying this time and fellowship together.
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| Our study guide keeps us on track. |
WHAT A GOLDEN SEASON!
Back in mid-November, Jaylen helped her high school volleyball team capture it's 1st ever CIF Championship. As the only freshman on the varsity, Jaylen competed with such poise and blended nicely with her new teammates. We couldn't be more proud of her efforts.
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| Jaylen's #1 Fan Club following the Championship Game on 11/11. |
As this calendar year comes to a close, we want to thank each of you for your partnership with us. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May 2017 be filled with much joy and contentment as you continue your journey with our Wonderful Savior, Jesus Christ!







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